Faith-Based Christian Counseling

    Marriage Counseling in Virginia Beach & Norfolk

    Compassionate, faith-rooted support for couples who want to communicate better, rebuild trust, and grow closer — available in person in Norfolk and Virginia Beach, or by telehealth anywhere in Virginia.

    You Don't Have to Work Through This Alone

    Every marriage goes through seasons of strain. Whether you're facing constant conflict, a breakdown in communication, the aftermath of a betrayal, or simply the slow drift of two busy lives, marriage counseling offers a safe, structured place to be honest with each other and start moving in the same direction again.

    I'm Christine Respess, a Counseling Intern with Rapha Counseling Services, Inc., a non-profit Christian counseling center serving Hampton Roads. I work with couples in Norfolk and Virginia Beach, as well as by secure telehealth, using evidence-based approaches integrated with a Christian understanding of marriage.

    "My goal is to help couples feel heard by one another again — and to give them practical tools to keep that connection going long after our sessions end."

    — Christine Respess, Counseling Intern

    Who Marriage Counseling Can Help

    Communication Breakdowns

    When conversations turn into arguments, or you've stopped talking about what matters.

    Trust & Betrayal

    Working through infidelity, dishonesty, or broken promises with honesty and a path toward repair.

    Recurring Conflict

    Breaking the cycle of the same fight, over and over, and learning to resolve differences well.

    Life Transitions

    Navigating a new baby, a move, job changes, retirement, empty nest, or caring for aging parents together.

    Premarital Counseling

    Building a strong foundation before the wedding by talking through expectations, finances, family, and faith.

    Blended Families

    Finding your footing as step-parents and partners while honoring the needs of every child in the home.

    What to Expect

    1

    A Free Initial Consultation

    We'll start with a no-cost conversation so you can ask questions, share what's going on, and decide whether working together feels like the right fit.

    2

    Understanding Your Story

    In early sessions we'll look at your history as a couple, what's working, where things are stuck, and what each of you is hoping for.

    3

    Practical Tools & Ongoing Support

    Together we'll build skills for communication, conflict, and reconnection — with faith woven in as much as you'd like — and check in regularly on your progress.

    A Faith-Based Approach to Marriage

    Rapha Counseling Services is a Christian counseling center, and faith is welcome in the room. For couples who want it, we can draw on Scripture, prayer, and a Christian understanding of covenant and forgiveness alongside proven counseling methods. For couples who prefer to keep sessions focused on practical tools, that's welcome too — you set the pace, and every couple is treated with respect and without judgment.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Do both spouses need to attend?

    Marriage counseling works best when both partners take part, but if your spouse isn't ready yet, you're welcome to start on your own. Individual work often helps the relationship too.

    Is marriage counseling only for couples in crisis?

    Not at all. Many couples come in to strengthen a good marriage, prepare for marriage, or work on one specific area before it becomes a bigger problem.

    Do you offer sessions online?

    Yes. Secure telehealth sessions are available for couples anywhere in Virginia, and in-person sessions are available in Norfolk and Virginia Beach.

    Do we need to be Christians to work with you?

    No. Rapha Counseling Services is a faith-based center, but couples of any background are welcome, and how much faith is part of your sessions is always up to you.

    How do I get started?

    Book a free initial consultation online, or call 757.447.9564. There's no obligation — it's simply a chance to talk and see if this is the right fit.

    Ready to Take the First Step Together?

    Reaching out is often the hardest part. Let's begin with a free, no-pressure conversation.

    Serving Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and all of Virginia via telehealth · Rapha Counseling Services, Inc.

    Back to home