Pre Marriage Counseling - Do I Need It?

Since you are reading this article on pre marriage counseling, it is most likely because you are in a committed relationship. Now you and your partner are contemplating moving to the next level of committment. You're very much in love with this person, and the feeling is mutual. What more do you need? Why would you want to bare your souls before some stranger in pre marriage counseling sessions?

Well, perhaps injecting a bit of 3rd-party objectivity into the situation would be helpful. Having learned from many years of interpersonal behavioral research, professional counselors are quite knowledgeable about what makes people do what they do, and how they respond to stressful situations and crises. Their arsenal includes methods by which couples can find greater satisfaction and improved communication in their marriages. Before you tie the knot, you really should consider attending pre marriage counseling. This will not only help you and your partner get to know each other better, but also will show you about the challenges and rewards that lie ahead for you as a married couple.

Numerous studies have indicated that pre marriage counseling reduces the likelihood of divorce. Couples who have attended pre marital counseling sessions are better able to deal with difficult situations together. Pre marriage counseling creates an awareness of issues that might occur in a marriage. Pre marriage counseling also helps people to determine if they are actually ready for marriage. Counseling may be a single, intensive session, or it might be in the form of a course that lasts a few weeks.

Once you've made the decision to enroll in pre marriage counseling, you now must make a choice. You have numerous choices here, both secular and religious. Pre marriage counseling is offered by private practice counselors, colleges, non-profit organizations, churches and various other religious groups. Online marriage counseling is also available, which you might find to be more convenient. While the secular counselors work from a psychological perspective, the religious counselors also provide spiritual guidance as it relates to your relationship.

Popular topics of discussion in pre marital counseling courses include values and beliefs, development of conflict resolution skills, sex and intimacy, communication skills, marriage expectations, family goals, role relationships, child rearing, and family finances. Also, some pre marriage counseling courses include the sharing of group experiences, outside reading and homework assignments These activities are all designed to help couples build a solid foundation for their life together.

Before selecting a counselor, check his or her licensing or certification, education, experience, and professional associations. Also, it doesn't hurt to ask for references Remember, pre marriage counseling is an investment in your future happiness.