We offer individualized premarital counseling that covers key areas relating to marital compatibility and marital preparedness. We utilize the PREPARE/ENRICH exam to help couples learn more about their readiness for marriage.
The typical premarital counseling services span six to eight sessions. We suggest and prefer that all couples complete the PREPARE premarital inventory. This test of approximately 165 questions has a one time fee of $35 and is payable via credit card and available to be completed by each member of the couple through their email account. Once the test has been completed, the therapist then has access to a 16 page report on the couple’s overall compatibility and preparation for marriage thus far.
Topics examined in this test include:
- Communication
- Conflict Resolution
- Partner Style and Habits
- Financial Management
- Leisure Activities
- Sexuality and Affection
- Family and Friends
- Relationship Roles
- Children and Parenting
- Spiritual Beliefs
After completing this testing process and related discussion the couple will have successfully:
- Explored strength and growth areas
- Strengthened communication skills
- Identified and managed major stressors
- Resolved conflict using the Ten Step Model
- Developed a more balanced relationship
- Explored family of origin issues
- Discussed financial planning and budgeting
- Established personal, couple and family goals
- Understood and appreciate personality differences
This data is used along with a suggested curriculum of topics essential to marital harmony and satisfaction. The therapist additionally collects a list of “hot topics” from past difficulties the couple has faced. These issues are all addressed on an as needed basis, the most urgent being first. The couple can choose to close out premarital counseling in less than six sessions or extend it for more if they and the therapist deem it necessary.