Marriage counseling or couples therapy is the process of spouses working with a trained professional (usually a psychologist) to resolve problems in their relationship, with the goal of saving the relationship and marriage. Marriage counseling is generally not required before getting divorced, but in some states courts have the discretion to require couples seeking a divorce to engage in marriage counseling—although this is rare. And in some states the court may order the spouses to attend marriage counseling if one spouse requests it. But because a spouse is generally entitled to a divorce on no-fault grounds (without claiming or proving fault in the breakup of the marriage), marriage counseling is not usually a significant factor in the divorce process, and if one spouse wants a divorce, it will be granted.

In Iowa, marriage counseling or couples therapy is a voluntary process where spouses work with a trained therapist to address issues in their relationship. While it can be a helpful step for couples looking to improve or save their marriage, it is not a legal requirement before filing for divorce. Iowa is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that a divorce can be granted without the need to prove fault or wrongdoing by either spouse. The courts in Iowa do not typically require couples to undergo marriage counseling before a divorce is granted. However, a judge may recommend or order counseling if it is deemed beneficial for the couple, especially if there are minor children involved and the court believes it could assist in the resolution of parenting issues. Ultimately, if one spouse wishes to proceed with a divorce, the court will not force them to attend marriage counseling as a prerequisite.