Pre-Marital Counseling in Chicago

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Just got engaged to your partner? Or are you contemplating engagement? Sara provides specialized services catering to both engaged couples and those navigating pre-marital relationships. Her expertise is designed for individuals looking to prepare themselves for the beautiful union of marriage and a long-term committed relationship, emphasizing essential communication skills, conflict resolution, and mutual understanding. With a personalized approach, Sara helps couples explore their values, dreams, and expectations, ensuring they are well-equipped to embark on this significant life chapter together. Whether you’re newly engaged or planning to take that next step, her guidance can pave the way for a strong foundation built on love and partnership.

Just because you’re starting therapy does not mean that you have to have current “issues” in your relationship! In fact, seeking therapy can be a proactive step towards enriching your relationship, even before challenges arise. Prevention of relationship issues and learning adequate skills for a successful relationship can be a great kick-start to a happy and healthy marriage! By exploring communication techniques, conflict resolution strategies, and understanding each other’s needs, you can build a solid foundation together. Marriage is a life-long journey with your partner, filled with highs and lows, so why not start it out on the right foot? Engaging in this process now can pave the way for deeper intimacy, mutual respect, and a greater understanding of one another as you embark on this beautiful adventure together.

Reach out to Sara to start couples counseling before marriage!

Examples of Topics

in Pre-Marital Counseling

Pre-marital counseling can be a wise way to start off your marriage on the right foot. Here are a few examples of topics you may want to discuss with your future spouse during pre-marital counseling:

Money/Finances: what does money mean to each of you or what does money symbolize for you? Will you join accounts or continue to have separate accounts?

Career Goals: what do each of your career goals look like, and how does that fit into your goals as a couple or family?

Parenting: do you want children? If so, what will each of your parenting styles look like?

Religion and Spirituality: are you currently practicing a religion, faith, or belief system? Do you want your partner to participate in the religion’s holidays or celebrations with you? If you are having children, do you want your children to learn those beliefs as well?

Family: what will the extended family involvement in your marriage look like? What type of relationship do you want to have with your in-laws?

Couple being a team with husband and wife

What is the Difference Between Couples Therapy and Premarital Counseling?

There is some overlap between the two! However, premarital counseling usually has specific goals in mind to include facilitating necessary conversations that couples need to have before walking down the aisle. Couples can discuss their dreams or hopes for the marriage, diving deep into their individual aspirations and how they align with one another, and navigate the intersection of values they each bring to the new family they are creating together. This process encourages an open dialogue about crucial topics such as finances, parenting styles, and conflict resolution, which are essential for establishing a solid partnership. Additionally, it allows couples to address potential challenges and misunderstandings proactively, fostering a stronger bond. This type of therapy lays the groundwork foundation for a healthy marriage, equipping couples with the tools and insights needed to nurture their relationship effectively throughout the years. On the contrary, couples therapy usually works on addressing current on-going presenting concerns.

Studies show that couples who participate in premarital counseling do reduce the likelihood of getting a divorce!

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Reach out today for a free 15-minute phone consultation!

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Confluent Relationship Therapy, PLLC

Relationship & Couples Therapy in Chicago

213 W Institute Place, Suite 500, Chicago, IL 60610 | 312-620-9075 | info@confluentrelationshiptherapy.com