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Why Every Engaged Couple Needs Premarital Counseling

Are you preparing to say “I do”? While you’re selecting venues, tasting cakes, and planning your honeymoon, there’s one critical preparation that shouldn’t be overlooked: premarital counseling.

At MarriageByGod.org, we believe that strong marriages don’t just happen – they’re built intentionally with wisdom, faith, and preparation. Our faith-based premarital counseling program gives couples the tools they need to build a marriage that will not only survive but thrive for decades to come.

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The Hard Truth About Marriage in America

  • According to the most recent Census Bureau data, the U.S. divorce rate remains around 40-50% for first marriages
  • Financial disagreements are cited as a primary factor in 41% of divorces
  • Communication problems are referenced in over 65% of divorces
  • Only 27% of married couples seek professional help before relationship problems become critical

But Here’s the Good News:

  • Couples who complete quality premarital counseling have a 30% lower divorce rate than those who don’t
  • 93% of couples report improved communication skills after premarital counseling
  • Faith-based couples who participate in premarital counseling report higher marital satisfaction scores than those who don’t
  • The average return on investment for premarital counseling is estimated at 680% when comparing the cost of counseling to the financial impact of divorce

What to Expect in Premarital Counseling

Many couples wonder, “What happens during a pre-marriage counseling session?” or “What should I expect in premarital counseling?” Here’s what our comprehensive program includes:

1. Relationship Assessment

Our certified counselors use evidence-based assessment tools to help you identify:

  • Communication patterns and potential pitfalls
  • Conflict resolution styles
  • Financial attitudes and expectations
  • Family of origin influences
  • Spiritual alignment and faith practices
  • Sexual expectations and intimacy goals
  • Parenting values and aspirations
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2. Communication Skills Development

Communication breakdowns are cited as the #1 reason for divorce. Our program teaches:

  • Active listening techniques
  • Healthy expression of needs and emotions
  • Conflict resolution without damaging the relationship
  • How to give and receive feedback constructively
  • Prayer and spiritual communication as a couple
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3. Financial Planning and Stewardship

Did you know that couples who argue about finances once a week are 30% more likely to divorce? Our financial module covers:

  • Creating a unified financial vision
  • Budgeting as a team
  • Debt management strategies
  • Saving and investing principles from a biblical perspective
  • Handling financial differences with respect and understanding
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4. Faith and Spiritual Growth

For Christian couples, spiritual alignment is crucial for long-term satisfaction:

  • Developing meaningful spiritual practices together
  • Understanding God’s design for marriage
  • Learning to pray together effectively
  • Supporting each other’s spiritual growth
  • Building a Christ-centered home
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5. Intimacy and Sexual Expectations

Physical intimacy is God’s gift to married couples, yet it’s often a source of confusion and conflict:

  • Understanding physical and emotional intimacy from a biblical perspective
  • Communicating needs and expectations clearly
  • Building physical and emotional connection
  • Practical guidance for a fulfilling physical relationship
  • Addressing past wounds or unhealthy patterns
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6. Family Planning and Parenting

Whether children are in your immediate future or years away, alignment on these issues is crucial:

  • Discussing family planning timeframes and expectations
  • Exploring parenting philosophies and discipline approaches
  • Understanding how children impact marriage dynamics
  • Blended family considerations when applicable
  • Building a legacy of faith across generations
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Should Couples Get Premarital Counseling? The Research Says Yes!

Many couples ask if premarital counseling is really worth the investment. Consider these findings:

 

Research published in the Journal of Family Psychology found that couples who completed premarital education experienced higher marital satisfaction and a 31% lower risk of divorce

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A study in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology reported that 80% of couples showed significant improvement in relationship satisfaction after completing structured premarital counseling

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The American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists found that 97% of couples reported getting the help they needed through marriage counseling

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Faith-based premarital programs show particularly strong outcomes, with reported satisfaction rates 15% higher than secular programs

What is premarital therapy versus premarital counseling?

Is counseling before marriage only for couples with problems?

How long before the wedding should we start premarital counseling?

Ideally, couples should begin 6-12 months before their wedding date. This allows time to process insights, practice new skills, and address any significant concerns without the pressure of imminent wedding plans. However, we offer programs for couples at any stage of engagement.

Do we need pre-relationship counseling if we’ve been together for years?

Why Choose MarriageByGod.org for Your Premarital Counseling?

1. Faith-Based Approach with Biblical Foundation

Our programs are rooted in Scripture while incorporating evidence-based relationship science. We believe God’s design for marriage provides the ultimate blueprint for success.

2. Certified, Experienced Counselors

All our premarital counselors hold advanced degrees in counseling, psychology, or ministry, with specialized training in marital preparation.

3. Customized Programs

No two relationships are identical. Our assessments help identify your specific needs and strengths, allowing us to customize your counseling experience.

4. Ongoing Support

Your relationship journey doesn’t end at the altar. All couples receive access to our marriage enrichment resources and follow-up support for the critical first year of marriage.

5. Proven Results

Couples who complete our program report 94% satisfaction rates and significantly higher marital confidence entering their wedding day.

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Finding Premarital Counselors Near Me

We understand the importance of convenience and connection when choosing a counselor. MarriageByGod.org offers:

  • In-person counseling at locations throughout the country
  • Virtual counseling options for couples unable to meet in person

Our network of certified premarital counselors ensures you can find the right match for your relationship, faith background, and specific needs.

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Success Stories: Marriages Transformed Through Preparation

My fiancé and I loved our experience during the Marriage by God program. Our mentor couple Robin and Bod were amazing and extremely insightful and supportive. I highly recommend all engaged couples to work through this series before their big day.

Lauren Blais

Had the best experience. They made us feel very safe and comfortable to be able to talk about anything. We were always looking forward for our next session.
They were always so welcoming and kind.

Nikolett Osborne

My wife and I had an awesome experience going through the “Marriage by God” program. They created an environment where we could talk about things that every couple should talk about that we probably would have glossed over had they not been there to facilitate a conversation. I think every couple should participate in their premarital counseling!

Ty WhitakerProject Manager, Coffee Inc

We had a great experience with Marriage by God. We had the most amazing mentor couple who led us through the content. They were so inspiring and encouraging. We kept in touch with them and they helped us navigate various milestones we’ve had in our marriage. The content is great and helpful. I’d highly recommend this to anyone who is seriously dating or engaged. We did it before we got engaged and I was so glad we did because it helped us feel confident we were making the right choice.

Kelli Marsh

Take the Next Step in Your Marriage Journey

Starting premarital counseling is a statement that you value your relationship enough to invest in its future. Whether you’re recently engaged or your wedding is just around the corner, it’s never too late to build a stronger foundation.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Our team is ready to answer your questions and help you find the perfect premarital counseling program for your relationship. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary 30-minute consultation.

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Invest in Your Forever Today

The average wedding costs over $30,000 and lasts one day. Premarital counseling costs a fraction of that and benefits your relationship for a lifetime. Don’t leave your marriage success to chance—build it on purpose with MarriageByGod.org.

“Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.” — Psalm 127:1

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