Why Is Premarital Counseling Important For Men?
C. DEVON MILLS, MA, LAPC, LAMFT • April 27, 2020
Premarital counseling is a type of therapy designed for couples preparing for marriage. This type of therapy creates an opportunity for couples to identify issues and learn how to communicate better. It also allows them to gain insight into areas where they can strengthen their relationship.
What can you expect in a premarital counseling session
Men who complete premarital therapy walk away feeling more prepared for marriage. They tend to have a better understanding of their role as a husband. Together the couple becomes equipped with the tools needed for success.
Premarital counseling also allows couples to discuss topics that impact a marriage.
Topics of discussion may include:
- Religious beliefs
- Finances
- Dealing with disappointment or anger
- Sex and affection
- Children
- Specific roles in the marriage
- Family traditions and relationships
Through premarital counseling, men can practice and improve their communication skills. They can also learn conflict-resolution
skills.
Why is premarital counseling valuable for men?
Many couples experience very different upbringings. Such upbringings create ideals and expectations for relationships
and marriage. Understanding your partner's past can help prevent unforeseen heartache in the future.
Premarital counseling is a great way to bring together two different sets of values, emotions, opinions, and histories. By discussing key differences before marriage, you are preventing future arguments.
Recognizing you and your partner are going to have disagreements is helpful. Yet, learning how to resolve the disagreements is more valuable.
At Thrive Counseling Atlanta,
we specialize in premarital counseling and teaching couples practical communication skills.
How should you approach premarital counseling?
Most men say they feel reluctant or embarrassed to attend therapy. Many men lack the desire to express their feelings. Some men admit they take part in premarital therapy because they feel the need to "check a box."
For men, this frame of mind can interfere with the benefits counseling can offer. Men and women alike can learn so much through their premarital counseling. Additionally, couples can find a deeper connection through therapy.
It is common for men to feel uncomfortable voicing concerns about life in front of their partner. Yet, his ideas and fears impact the relationship. When men talk about their issues, their partner learns how to offer support.
Why is it important to be open during your premarital counseling?
A man can discuss any issues or concerns he has about marriage during the sessions. The goal is to help him to realize that his concerns are as important as hers. Addressing issues before marriage enhances the relationship after marriage.
As with any type of counseling, topics vary from session to session. For example, a session might focus on past sexual experiences or addictions. Another session might focus on how to avoid or handle infidelity. Your therapist
will help you navigate through your needs as individuals and as a couple.
Our therapists at Thrive Counseling Atlanta look forward to helping you and your partner strengthen your relationship before you commit to forever.
Written by
C. Devon Mills, MA, LAPC, LAMFT
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been in private practice for five years. I work primarily with men who have traumatic histories, are struggling with overcoming sexually addictive behaviors, sexual identity issues, and men who are HIV+ and learning to navigate life after receiving their diagnosis.
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