Whether you’re planning a wedding or a long-term commitment, there is a lot to look forward to (and a lot to think about). Amidst all of the excitement, many couples overlook one of the most valuable investments they can make: premarital counselling. Think of it as a relationship insurance policy—it strengthens your partnership before the heavy lifting begins! Why? Because you’ll learn to communicate like pros, navigate conflicts without the drama, and align on everything from finances to future dreams. As a couples therapist in Barrie, I’ve seen countless couples transform their relationships through this process.
You Don’t Have to Take My Word For It – Here are 7 Research-Backed Benefits to Premarital Therapy
1. It Actually Reduces Your Divorce Risk
While many couples assume premarital counselling is only for those with relationship problems, research tells a different story. Studies show that couples who participate in premarital counselling have a significantly lower divorce rate—they’re better off than 80% of couples who skip counselling altogether and 31% less likely to divorce. This preventative approach helps identify potential issues before they escalate into marriage-threatening problems.
2. Higher Relationship Satisfaction
There is a statistically significant improvement in relationship satisfaction for both men and women who completed premarital counseling, with men also showing significant improvements in individual distress levels upon completion of treatment. Another study found that the communication skills acquired during premarital counseling significantly improved marital stability among newly-wed couples, demonstrating a direct link between pre-marriage communication training and relationship durability.
3. It Improves Your Financial Relationship
Money matters are among the leading causes of marital conflict, yet many couples avoid these discussions. Premarital counselling creates a structured space to develop “financial finesse”—discussing money management styles, establishing shared financial goals, and creating strategies for handling finances as a team. This financial clarity can prevent countless arguments later.
4. It Enhances Intimacy and Sexual Satisfaction
While many couples feel awkward discussing intimacy, premarital counselling provides a safe environment to address sexual expectations and desires. This proactive approach helps identify any anxieties or misunderstandings before they become issues in your marriage. The result? Greater sexual satisfaction and a stronger emotional connection throughout your relationship.
5. It Prepares You for Parenthood as a Team
If you’re planning to have children, premarital counselling offers a valuable opportunity to align your parenting values and expectations. You’ll discuss everything from discipline approaches to balancing work and family life. This preparation helps ensure you’re on the same team when parenting challenges arise.
6. It Builds a Shared Vision for Your Future
One often overlooked benefit is the opportunity to create a shared vision for your life together. Premarital counselling helps you discuss and align on everything from career goals to retirement dreams. This shared roadmap prevents the common pitfall of growing apart as you navigate different life paths.
Premarital Counselling in Barrie or Virtually Across Ontario
Have questions about how premarital counselling might benefit your specific relationship? Wondering what the process involves? Reach out now for a free 15-minute consultation.
References and Research
1. Ngunjiri & Muiru (2021): “Effect of Premarital Counseling on Marital Satisfaction” https://brieflands.com/articles/semj-13182
2. Williamson et al. (2018): “Premarital Education and Later Relationship Help-seeking” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5907919/
3. Carlson et al. (2012): “A Comparison of Cohabiting and Noncohabiting Couples Who Participated in Premarital Counseling” https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1066480712441588
4. Carroll & Doherty (2003/2013): “Evaluating the Effectiveness of Premarital Prevention Programs: A Meta-Analytic Review” https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1066480712441588
5. Stanley et al. (2019): “Do Premarital Education Promotion Policies Work?” https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/context/facpub/article/5119/viewcontent/The_Effects_of_Premarital_Education_Promotion_Policies_on_U.S._Divorce_Rates.pdf
6. Parhizgar et al. (2017): “Effect of Communication Skills on Marital Satisfaction” https://ir.ucc.edu.gh/xmlui/bitstream/handle/123456789/11908/ASUO,2024.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y