Premarital Therapy: More Ways to Prepare for Married Life

In our last post, you learned about important conversations to have with your partner before you get married. But there are many additional topics and themes that can help premarital couples in addition to the ones we discussed last time. So, today you will read about a couple more conversations that can set you and your future spouse up for success. Then, you will read more about how premarital therapy can help you get there and provide additional support.

It’s All About Communication

I can confidently say that the number one thing all of my couples therapy clients bring up is communication. You  might feel like communication has kind of become a buzzword. What does that even mean? What does it look like in practice?

In premarital therapy, you will work with the therapist to learn many different communication strategies and skills. Some of these can include I-Statements and active listening. Additionally, having a conversation with your fiance about how you communicate and how to improve can help to prevent new and more complicated communication skills and misunderstandings down the line. (Related article: Building a Toolbox of Tools in Therapy). 

Creating the Safety Net Through Trust 

Another topic you can discuss with your couples is trust. Do you trust each other? What does trust look like? One of the best ways to build trust, especially as newlyweds, is to practice having emotionally connected conversations with each other. Go out of your way to create special moments together to check in. Additionally, trust is built when you and your partner practice being open to feedback and saying sorry where appropriate. 

There are many different ways to build trust. Having challenging conversations in a calm, validating manner can help to build trust and remind you and your partner that you are emotionally and mentally safe when you are together. 

If you are a reader, I often recommend that couples read Hold Me Tight by Sue Johnson together and complete the exercises in the book. You can also practice having honest communication and addressing concerns together as a couple in your sessions with your premarital therapist. (Related article: Becoming Accessible, Responsive and Engaged). 

Getting Started in Premarital Therapy

If you are ready to take the first step, or if you just need some extra help as you prepare for your married life together, premarital counseling can help. In premarital therapy, a therapist can help you and your future spouse navigate some of these important but difficult conversations together, as a team. 

Start individual counseling in Orem, South Jordan, or Spanish Fork, or via Telehealth for anyone in Utah.

Written by Lauren Adkins