Premarital counseling can be couples counseling for partners planning to get married.
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What Is Premarital Counseling?
Premarital counseling is not just for couples experiencing challenges in their relationship.
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It is to help couples prepare for a healthy marriage.
This is a personal decision for the couple to make together.
The details of how to prepare for the first session depends on the healthcare provider.
There are many benefits of premarital counseling, including improved communication and conflict prevention and resolution.
These benefits, among others, help prepare the couple for marriage and serve them for years to come.
Couples who receive counseling before getting married are more likely to remain married and be satisfied in their relationships.
A Word From Verywell
The decision to get married is a big commitment.
The transition comes with challenges, and new challenges arise throughout life as a married couple.
If you and your partner are considering marriage, you may benefit from premarital counseling.
Reach out to a mental health provider such as a therapist or counselor to get started.
Premarital counseling is generally about 45 to 60 minutes per session and five to seven sessions, or more.
The sessions are about a week apart, but it varies depending on the couple and the healthcare provider.
A couple could begin premarital counseling when they start to think and talk about marriage.
It is best to start marriage counseling at least six months before getting married.
American Psychological Association.Couples counseling.
American Psychological Association.Premarital counseling.
American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.Marriage preparation.
Health Research Funding.20 significant premarital counseling statistics.