Tell me more about Marriage Preparation….  

Organising the dress, honeymoon and cake is only the beginning of what couples need
to organise when preparing for marriage.
After the vows, have you considered the future of your relationship?
  • How will you relate to one another?
  • How do you manage conflict?
  • Who will have responsibility for the finances?
  • Have you discussed children?
  • What makes your relationship stronger?
Marriage preparation provides couples with an opportunity to identify and explore
relationship patterns, thus becoming more empowered to address issues before
they become a major source of conflict.

What is involved?

The pre-marriage course is a short program facilitated by an accredited practitioner
using the FOCCUS (Facilitating Open Couple Communication, Understanding &
Study) Inventory.
FOCCUS is not a test but a validated instrument used with couples worldwide. The
self-diagnostic questionnaire is designed to assist couples to learn more about
themselves and their relationship. There is no pass or fail nor does it predict the
future success of the relationship.
Please note that it is not counselling; however open & honest communication is expertly
facilitated in a confidential, non- judgemental way to reflect upon important issues and to
generate discussions regarding future decisions. Oftentimes couples don’t consider
issues such as individual differences in family backgrounds, lifestyle expectations or
values until it leads to conflict.
Research shows that couples that participate in pre-marriage counselling courses fare
significantly better than those who don’t.
“Premarital education programs are generally effective in producing immediate gains in communication skills, conflict management skills, and overall relationship quality”
(Carroll & Doherty, Family Relations 2003)

Who is it for?

Couples who are either engaged to marry and/or in a committed relationship and wish
it to remain that way. (First marriage for at least one partner).

When is it appropriate to complete?

It is recommended that the course be completed 6-9 months prior to the ceremony in order
to provide adequate time to address any issues that may be identified.
If counselling is indicated at any time during the Marriage Preparation Course, then Trish
is more than qualified to appropriately manage this through offering counselling at an
additional cost or a choice of appropriate referral options.
Recent data indicates that one in three married couples will separate within the first 5 years
of marriage. (ABS Year Book, 2012)
Don’t you owe it to your relationship?

 

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