Premarital Counseling

Engagement is an exciting time in a couple’s relationship. It marks one of the primary steps to a deeply profound commitment in any relationship. At this stage of life, many couples find themselves quickly overwhelmed with the wedding details from invitations to party favors and so on. This aspect of the engagement process does not always allow a space for couples to think beyond the wedding day into the marriage life they will share. However, preparation and reflection on each couple’s hopes, dreams and desires for their marriage are important aspects to consider as the wedding day draws near.

Premarital counseling allows couples to participate in a space where they can engage each other in questions that move beyond the wedding day into the very journey that they will share over a lifetime. The premarital counseling process gives each couple an opportunity to explore their future marriage with hope while looking at each individual’s personal history, family background and culture. Couples will learn communication techniques and develop skills to navigate through life struggles and tension. Topics that we will explore include the following:

o Foundations for family & marriage: Commitment, Empowerment, Grace & Intimacy
o Family Background and patterns
o Community Support & Accountability
o Boundaries
o Future expectations & dreams
o Family size & children
o Roles & responsibilities
o Finances: future goals, financial management, debt, philosophy on spending, & standard of living.
o Sexuality & Intimacy
o Religion/Spirituality
o Reflective listening/vulnerability/openness
o Navigating tension/Fighting fair

Premarital counseling is conducted over 6 to 8 weeks with the possibility of on-going meetings depending on the couples needs. For more information please contact deanza[at]deanzaspauldingcounseling.com