Why Premarital Counseling?
Written by: Jessica Gross, M.A.
Research shows that 41% of first marriages, 60% of second marriages, and 73% of third marriages end in divorce. Premarital counseling can significantly improve your chances of marital success—studies indicate that it decreases the likelihood of divorce by 31%. It helps couples develop crucial relationship skills and align on major aspects of their relationship, creating a strong foundation for a successful marriage.
Some couples feel nervous about premarital counseling because they fear it will “rock the boat” or stir up conflict. It’s understandable to want to maintain peace and avoid difficult conversations, but avoiding these issues often leads to problems later—whether in the form of resentment, decreased connection, or the feeling of constantly walking on eggshells. The goal of premarital counseling is to provide a space for these essential conversations before entering a legally binding commitment, ultimately reducing potential disagreements down the road.
Being able to discuss challenging relationship issues in a healthy, productive, and regulated manner is a skill that will help you and your partner stay connected throughout your marriage. Additionally, practicing vulnerability can enhance communication and conflict resolution. The counseling environment offers a safe space for you to share aspects of yourself that you might typically hide—your fears, insecurities, and weaknesses—while fostering an atmosphere free of judgment and criticism.
Why Prepare and Enrich?
Prepare and Enrich is a highly researched program designed for marriage preparation and enrichment. It is one of the most widely used assessment tools for pre-engagement, premarital, marriage, and couples counseling. The program helps couples identify their strengths and areas for growth while uncovering patterns within their relationship.
The process begins with each partner taking a customized assessment covering key topics such as communication, conflict resolution, partner styles and habits, financial management, leisure activities, affection and sexuality, relationships with family and friends, relationship roles, spiritual beliefs, cultural/ethnic considerations, cohabitation issues, and more. A trained facilitator then meets with the couple for three to six sessions, reviewing the assessment results and integrating skills-based activities.
The core goals and exercises of the program include:
- Exploring strength and growth areas
- Strengthening communication skills
- Identifying and managing major stressors
- Resolving conflicts using a ten-step model
- Developing a more balanced relationship through the Couple and Family Maps
- Understanding personality differences to improve teamwork
Start Your Journey Today
Reach out to a trained facilitator today!
Jessica would love to come alongside you on your journey to a successful marriage.