Learn More About Each Other Through Pre Marriage Counseling

In a survey of over 3,000 homes across 4 states, published by Scott Stanley for the Journal of Family Psychology (March, 2006), suggest that pre marriage counseling really does help couples deal with money issues. This survey showed that couples seeking marriage family counselors were 31% less likely to divorce than those who did not. They also reported lower marital dissatisfaction and conflict and greater levels of commitment.

Pre marriage counseling can be seen as a prenuptial, which may offend some people. However, as counseling for couples becomes more common, this is less of an issue. The California Association for Marriage Family Therapists developed several criterion to help guide you. Pre marriage counseling can be beneficial for those with a history of abuse, failed marriage, or commitment issues. Minor obstacles can easily progress to full-blown catastrophes, so addressing them early and professionally is important.

On your first pre marriage counseling session you will receive a Pre Marital Inventory (PMI) test. The quiz examines areas like interests, expectations of your marital roles, religious beliefs, finances, children and parenting, and sexuality. This test identifies your strengths and weaknesses and arms you with the tools to have a successful marriage.

Financial problems are the leading cause for divorce, so money is often a primary reason couples seek pre-marriage counseling. Mental health counselors profess that control is at the root of the argument. One person often assumes control of the finances, causing stress in the marriage. Though difficult, couples should deal with finances as a team and marriage counselors can help make this a smooth transition.

Pre marriage counseling is also important because those entering a marriage often have false conceptions. A popular but mistaken belief is that the main factors contributing to a long marriage are luck and love; instead, commitment and companionship actually play a more important role. Christian marriage counseling before the wedding ensures that your marriage begins without a hitch.