Build a Strong Foundation for a Lifetime of Happiness
Marriage is a significant commitment. It is a time of joy, anticipation, and shared dreams. However, it can also highlight questions, uncertainties, and emotions. Seeking premarital counseling is not a sign of weakness but a powerful testament to your commitment to building a strong, lasting relationship. It’s a step that can bring relief and reassurance, showing how much you care about your future together.
What is Premarital Therapy?
Our sessions take place in a safe and confidential environment, ensuring your comfort and security as we explore the dynamics of your partnership. These sessions equip you with the skills, understanding, and tools to thrive in marriage.
You may find yourself pondering questions like:
- How can we handle disagreements without feeling disconnected?
- Do our financial habits align?
- What if we have different expectations for family, children, or shared roles?
- How can we nurture intimacy and emotional closeness over the years?
It’s important to remember: having questions or acknowledging imperfections is part of every healthy relationship. Addressing them shows your commitment to making your partnership as strong as possible. No relationship is perfect, and seeking guidance shows strength and dedication
I understand that starting premarital counseling can feel daunting, but I am here to support you every step of the way.
Premarital Counseling in Chicago – Get Started Today
As a licensed psychotherapist and Certified Prepare/Enrich Facilitator, I specialize in helping couples like you build a firm foundation for a happy and resilient marriage. My approach is professional, personalized, and compassionate. Using proven methods tailored to your unique needs, I help you create an enduring framework for a lifetime of happiness.
The Prepare/Enrich Program
At the heart of my work is the Prepare/Enrich program, a trusted, research-based framework designed to strengthen relationships
It all begins with an online assessment customized to your partnership, exploring critical areas such as:
- Communication styles
- Conflict resolution strategies
- Financial habits and goals
- Relationship dynamics
- Family expectations and roles
- Emotional and physical intimacy
From there, you’ll receive a detailed report highlighting your strengths, identities, and areas for growth. This report serves as a roadmap for our sessions, helping us focus on what matters most to you—both personally and as a couple—while providing actionable tools for your future.
Additional Approaches I Integrate
In addition to Prepare/Enrich, I incorporate a variety of evidence-based approaches tailored to your relationship, such as:
- The Gottman Method: Practical skills for improving communication, resolving conflict, and deepening emotional connection.
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): Building secure bonds and fostering trust, even during challenges.
- Solution-Focused Therapy: Creating actionable steps to achieve shared goals and address specific difficulties
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Reframing unhelpful thought patterns to create healthier interactions.
Each session is customized to honor your unique story, struggles, and dreams for the life you are building together. Our work will help you feel seen, valued, and empowered as you move forward as a team.
Imagine if…
Imagine yourself feeling calm, connected, and ready – not just for the big celebration, but for the life you’re about to share. Picture yourself confident in the strength of your partnership, knowing you’ve taken the time to address the topics most significant to your relationship.
Through premarital counseling, you can:
- Communicate openly and effectively, even during life’s most challenging moments.
- Approach conflicts with empathy and teamwork.
- Align on shared goals regarding finances, family, and plans.
- Build emotional and physical intimacy that deepens over time.
- Intensify your foundation of trust, respect, and unwavering support.
Investing in your relationship now sets the stage for a future filled with love, support, and mutual growth.
FAQ
Common questions about premarital therapy
How does the Prepare/Enrich Progam work?
The process begins with a personalized assessment that both of you complete. This tool generates a detailed report about your relationship’s strengths, areas for growth, and notable patterns. Structured conversations and exercises help you build on these strengths and constructively address challenges.
How far in advance should we start premarital counseling?
I recommend starting 6 to 12 months before your wedding or significant commitment.
How many sessions will we need?
Most couples benefit from 6-10 sessions. However, the number of sessions can be adjusted to suit your specific goals.
What topics will we cover?
We’ll address communication, conflict resolution, family dynamics, intimacy, roles, expectations, and other topics specific to your partnership. You are the experts on your relationship, and we will prioritize what matters most to you.
How much does premarital counseling cost?
- Prepare/Enrich Package (includes assessment + 6-10 sessions): $800-$1000
- Additional sessions (75 minutes): $225
Please note: Insurance does not cover premarital counseling.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Contact me today to begin your odyssey toward the marriage of your dreams. I look forward to hearing from you.