Couples counseling before marriage is different.
It’s all about preventing long-term problems and creating a vision for your life together.
It takes less time than marriage counseling and is often conducted in one-hour sessions instead of two-hour sessions. Couples approaching their second marriage may prefer longer sessions.
Feeling Solid
Like couples counseling, you will explore vulnerabilities and learn how to address them. Commitments are established, and rules for the relationship are created. I act as a guide to help you feel excited and secure in your choice to marry.
A Brilliant Future
Leslie and Karen had just gotten engaged. Leslie had hired a professional photographer to take pictures of the day they said “yes” to each other. They were a beautiful and accomplished couple.
Although madly in love, they wanted to work out some kinks before getting married. They’re fighting got out of hand sometimes. It scared them. They worried that if they didn’t change it could get worse after marriage.
I helped them learn how to fight well, even playfully. We first identified what made each of them feel the most vulnerable (which triggered the fighting). They also learned how to spot early signs of emotional pain or anger, so they could express compassion and curiosity to each other as fast as possible. Finally, they learned how to soothe each other, so they each got what they wanted…………nurturing and understanding.
Before finishing, we spent four weeks reviewing the basic principles of a secure relationship. We discussed and practiced each pillar. By the end of counseling, they felt confident in their future and secure in their skills. After their wedding, I received a lovely note and pictures of their nuptials. Two years later, they still glow when they talk about each other.
Build a Strong Foundation
Effective pre-marital counseling will make your relationship closer. The doubts that creep in will be soothed. Learning to handle each other’s stress will make your confidence soar. Together, you’ll build a stronger foundation than you could imagine on your own.
If you want to create a better marriage before it starts, call me for a free 30-minute phone consultation: