Pre-Marital Counseling + Education
Pre-Marital Therapy is an opportunity for a couple to invest in their marriage before "I do." Too often, couples spend the majority of their time investing in the wedding instead of investing in the preparation of the marriage. An investment in Pre-Marital will be a pillar of the marriage because it provides the tools, skills, and insight to navigate conflict, and also develop trust.
As a couple you can expect to understand that there will be issues in your marriage. Therapy gives you the opportunity to identify potential pitfalls and other sensitive areas that will likely come up in the course of the marriage. You will walk away with the confidence, and skills to better navigate the challenging places. Marriage is difficult, but with the right preparation you can increase the likelihood to thrive in your marriage rather than simply survive in your marriage.
F.A.Q.s
Why is Pre-Marital imperative for a marriage?
The divorce rate is at 50%. The average length of a marriage that ends in divorce is eight years. But it doesn't have to be this way with the right tools--anyone can have a long, healthy marriage.
What if I'm not engaged?
Great! You're ahead of the curve. Learning how to have a healthy relationship is foundational for knowing how to have a healthy marriage.
What if my significant other does not want to attend? Or, does not think it's necessary?
Could be a red flag and I would encourage you to proceed with caution. However, I would still encourage you to come. It will be a great opportunity for you to explore your areas of potential growth in preparation for marriage.
How many sessions do we have to attend?
It depends. The number of sessions is usually indicative of how many areas that you and your spouse specifically need to work on. This is determined in your initial assessment. The average number of sessions is 8-12.
What if we're getting married really soon? Is it too late?
Never too late! This is a priority and we'll make the time and the space. Contact us and we can talk through our options.
Is this necessary if we're already meeting with a pastor?
Yes! This is a great collaboration opportunity. We have different skills and training that can compliment very well to ensure the best preparation for your marriage! We can talk about what this could look like.
Should I do Pre-Marital Therapy if me or my future spouse have been married before?
YES! The divorce rate for remarriage is even higher than the average of 50%. There are a lot of added dynamics that you did not have going into marriage before which include, but are not limited to the emotional trauma of a divorce, potential blended families, emotional scars, healing from past hurts, that need to be addressed beforehand.
Will you do Pre-Marital Therapy with a same-sex couple?
Yes. All are welcome to my practice. However, as I shared, my therapeutic orientation for marital therapy comes from Genesis 2:18-25. This expresses the foundational principles for which I counsel couples in understanding and clearly identifying their purpose in marriage.