Premarital Counseling

Once you get engaged, you’ve got a lot on your plate. From working out details of the big day to planning life as a newlywed, there’re quite a few exciting things that require your attention.

So, it’s no surprise that only 36% of married couples today attended premarital counseling. But it’s also important to know that 92% of newlywed couples who did so experienced a happier, stronger marriage than couples who didn’t.

This data makes one little-known fact crystal clear: Sessions with a premarital counselor is one of the smartest things you can do as an engaged couple. Taking this time shows how committed you are to your future spouse, and it can help bring you two closer together for decades to come.

What is Premarital Counseling?

Premarital counseling is a specific type of therapy to help you and your partner move towards the next steps in your relationship. The topics covered in each session will vary depending on your personalities, expectations, and any existing conflicts.

For example, you may discuss how you two approach decision-making, talk through fears related to marriage, or how to resolve any conflicts that arise.

You can think of premarital counseling with a therapist as similar to an annual checkup with your primary care provider. When you come in for a session here at Gateway Counseling Center in Boynton Beach, you may have a minor issue or two that must be discussed. But you’re also checking for any unknown challenges instead of waiting for them to become serious problems.

What Topics are Covered in Premarital Counseling?

Examples of the topics commonly discussed during premarital counseling are:

• Conflict-resolution skills and effective communication
• Your individual goals, beliefs, values, and life purpose
• Finances and any fears or issues related to money
• Religion and spirituality in your marriage and for your future children
• Avoiding common pitfalls and mistakes that happen in marriage/relationships
• Your shared emotional connection and how you both relate to it
• Other topics or issues that come up naturally during your sessions

What are the Benefits of Premarital Counseling?

Some of the proven benefits of premarital counseling include:

• Learning skills to productively resolve conflicts instead of fighting
• Noticing and appreciating your partner’s best qualities
• Getting unbiased support while discussing challenging topics
• Discovering previously unknown roadblocks or sources of conflict
• A lower likelihood of future divorce
• Less overall friction and disagreement in your relationship
• Higher long-term relationship quality and satisfaction

What’s the Difference Between Premarital Counseling and Couples Therapy?

The biggest difference between premarital counseling and couples therapy is that the latter is typically used to resolve a specific issue, while the former is more geared towards laying groundwork for a happy and healthy marriage.

This isn’t to say that you won’t address specific conflicts or disagreements in premarital counseling—that’s definitely part of it, too.

Basically, you don’t typically book the first session following infidelity or dishonesty the way you might with couples therapy.

Why Should We Consider Premarital Counseling?

No matter what’s currently going on in your relationship, it can improve further when you attend premarital counseling. You can reap the benefits we shared earlier, for example, whether you two butt heads rarely or often.

Think of it this way. In America, we attend Driver’s Ed and have to practice with a certified educator before getting a driver’s license. And yet there’s no requirement for getting a marriage license. Doesn’t it make sense to get some education and unbiased support before finalizing the biggest decision of your entire life?

Can Premarital Counseling Help if We’re Already Having Issues?

Yes, premarital counseling is a very smart choice if you two are already having issues. Because the thing is, one or both of you might not be fully aware of the roots of those issues.

What might seem like your partner being stubborn may actually be tied to a core belief, expectation, or value they hold in regard to marriage. And unless you both understand what makes each of you tick, truly resolving these conflicts can be impossible.

But with counseling, you both have a safe space and an expert to help you communicate. You can get on the same page and set realistic expectations for what your marriage will be like.

What if We Don’t Have Any Major Issues? Do We Still Need Premarital Counseling?

Yes, you two should still consider premarital counseling even if you aren’t experiencing major issues. Did you know one recent poll found less than 50% of couples discuss finances before tying the knot? An oversight like this can lead to raised voices and slammed doors down the road.

When you attend premarital counseling, you’ll discuss all the big things that might not have come up yet—whether it’s kids, money, property, or any other number of important topics.

More importantly, if it’s discovered that you and your partner aren’t in alignment, you can amicably resolve those conflicts during counseling.

How Much Does Premarital Counseling Cost?

The cost of premarital counseling depends on a few specific details, like how often your sessions are. To learn more about what pricing looks like for you, just contact Gateway Counseling Center in Boynton Beach FL.

How Do We Find a Premarital Counselor?

When you’re looking for a premarital counselor in South Florida, you may feel overwhelmed by all the options. It’s important to look for counseling in a location that’s convenient for you—coming into a session feeling stressed about traffic or the commute can be very counterproductive.

That’s why Gateway Counseling Center is in Boynton Beach. No matter where you are in the surrounding area, whether it’s Palm Beach or Broward County, we’re easy to get to. Our experienced counselors are here to help you and your partner navigate the next steps in your relationship.

If you’re ready to learn more about our premarital counseling services, or set up your first appointment, give us a call at 561-468-6464 or contact us online today.