The short answer is a resounding YES! Getting married without premarital preparation is like starting a business or any important venture without a plan.
Most engaged couples assume their marriage will not fail. However, the reality is half of all marriages do end in divorce, and only 50% of those who remain married are truly happy.
Most couples just don't realize that good, skill-based pre-marriage counseling or classes can reduce the risk of divorce by up to 30% and lead to a significantly happier marriage, according to marriage research.
It can also reduce the stress of the pre-wedding period.
Here's a list of seven relationship skill and knowledge areas that research has shown to contribute to the success and endurance of marriage:
- Compatibility
- Expectations
- Personalities and families-of-origin
- Communication
- Conflict resolution
- Intimacy
- Long-term goals
--Our classes include an assessment inventory to help couples understand their areas of compatibility and strength, as well as areas they may need to address.
--We offer small group settings which are more engaging and individualized than large classes. The classes are comprehensive, systematic, and skill-based. Participants practice what they learn in class. These exercises are important and fun! Many find a group experience to be more involving and stimulating than individual counseling.
--Our classes help couples agree on goals and strategies for managing and continuing to work on their most important unresolved issues.
--We are willing to work with couples on an individual basis, as needed.
--This program is 16 hours (sometimes more, if needed).