Premarital Counseling

Premarital Counseling Q & A

What is premarital counseling?

Premarital counseling is a specialized type of therapy for couples considering a long-term commitment. Though many couples seek premarital counseling before marriage, anyone who’s already in a relationship or thinking about committing to one can benefit from therapy. 

The goal of premarital counseling is to build a foundation that helps ensure a successful, long-lasting partnership or marriage. To reach that goal, you discuss important life issues. In the process, you and your partner either get on the same page or have a clear understanding of your differences. 

What are the benefits of premarital counseling?

Everyone brings their own history and experiences into a relationship. Sometimes you aren’t aware of the impact your past has on the way you interact and communicate with your partner. In many cases, you have ingrained habits, ways of thinking, and emotional reactions that may not nurture a strong, caring relationship.

One of the benefits of premarital counseling is learning more about yourself and each other and recognizing potential areas of conflict before they cause significant problems. 

Other benefits include:

• Understanding each person’s expectations about marriage

• Building mutual goals together

• Addressing significant differences

• Learning how to communicate

• Learning conflict resolution skills

• Working through your potential conflicts before marriage

• Learning how to make decisions together

• Identifying issues that often lead to conflict down the road   

All couples face major life issues that commonly cause future conflict. Talking about them now paves the way for a solid future. These issues revolve around having children, parenting styles, finances, career goals, dividing household chores, and choosing where to live, to name just a few. 

What should I expect during premarital counseling?

Premarital counseling tends to be different from other types of therapy because its goal is to uncover and discuss your personal topics and issues.

Your therapist may want to meet with each partner individually before everyone gets together. Or they may give each partner a questionnaire to complete. Both approaches give the therapist the opportunity to learn about each person’s issues, concerns, beliefs, and goals. 

Though there are some therapeutic approaches to premarital counseling, many therapists take a direct approach by asking questions that trigger a discussion. They guide the conversation, ensuring that you can be open and honest in a neutral, supportive environment.

If you’re ready to schedule premarital counseling, call High Desert Psychological Services or request an appointment online today.