How to Get Pre-Marital Counseling
Navigating the often rocky terrain of marriage without pre-marital counseling can be a lot like trying to maneuver a car without driver’s training. You can do it, but it’s not recommended and could potentially have disastrous results. Seeking counsel from experienced or professional individuals can help you and your partner avoid some of the inevitable pitfalls of life together, making marriage a smoother and more pleasant journey.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Decide what type of pre-marital counseling would be the most effective for you. Check local or internet listings for professional marriage counselors and family therapists. Ministers and family outreach organizations often provide excellent pre-marital counseling as well.
-
2
Examine your counselor’s track-record. Speak with other couples who have been counseled by this person. You want to make sure that you go with a qualified counselor who will help you grow together.
-
-
3
Consider the cost. Pre-marital counseling can be expensive. If wedding preparations are weighing down your pocket book, it may be wise to seek a lower-cost counseling option. Remember that dollar signs are not always an indicator of good advice.
-
4
Make sure you both feel comfortable. You may want to set up a preliminary meeting with your counselor and then speak openly with your spouse-to-be about how it went. Effective pre-marital counseling requires both individuals to be at ease and willing to share intimate details. Sessions could go awry if one of you feels uncomfortable or is unwilling to speak openly.
-
5
Set aside time to work on the relationship. Pre-marital counseling does not require a lot of time, but there may be several sessions and minimal “homework” involved. Check your planner to make sure your sessions don’t overlap previously scheduled wedding plans. Remember, though it may seem like just another item on the wedding “to do” list, pre-marital counseling will prepare you to deal effectively with potential bumps on the horizon.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Encourage your future spouse by treating him the way that you want to be treated.
Don't insist that your loved on go to counseling if they don't want it. You both need to want it for it to be effective.
