What is Christian Marriage Counselling?

Christian Post-Marriage Counselling is a specialised service that integrates evidence-based psychology with a Christian worldview. It is provided to assist married couples in navigating the complexities of their relationship and fostering ongoing growth. While the "Prepare and Enrich" program is primarily associated with pre-marital counselling, a modified version can also be used by married couples for a "health check" on their relationship.

Here is a detailed overview of Christian post-marriage counselling:

• Purpose and Goals

  Unlike pre-marital counselling, which is largely preventative, Christian post-marriage counselling is often sought when a marriage is already facing difficulties. The primary goal is to help couples unpack complex issues and find pathways for growth, operating on the understanding that no couple is perfect, and all relationships will inevitably encounter challenges and areas requiring lifelong work. The counselling aims to help couples proactively address difficulties and equip them emotionally to uphold the commitment they have made.

• Process and What it Entails

  The process typically commences with each partner independently completing a 150-question survey about themselves and their partner. The "Prepare and Enrich" program then synthesises these responses into a comprehensive report, which the counsellor uses as a guide for a minimum of four sessions with the couple. Each session generally delves into two of the eight identified relationship categories. Sessions incorporate both conceptual discussions and practical exercises; for instance, if a couple struggles with financial management, they might learn how to construct a budget, or if communication is an issue, they could practice dialoguing techniques. Couples are encouraged to debrief between sessions, as this is considered highly beneficial for efficient processing, especially since therapy can bring many underlying issues to the surface.

• Key Areas Covered

  The "Prepare and Enrich" report and subsequent counselling sessions address several crucial aspects of the relationship, which remain relevant for married couples, including:

  ◦ Communication

  ◦ Conflict Resolution

  ◦ Sexual Expectations

  ◦ Attitudes of Family and Friends

  ◦ Partner Habits

  ◦ Spiritual Beliefs

  ◦ Family of Origin, (examining how one's family system influences the marriage and the role of extended family in the ongoing relationship.)

• Distinction from Secular Counselling

  A defining characteristic of Christian post-marriage counselling is the integration of faith and a Christian worldview. The "Prepare and Enrich" survey includes a specific section on spiritual beliefs, covering aspects such as prayer, church attendance, and how children might be raised in the faith. Beyond direct questions, Christian counselling explores the theological understanding of marriage as a covenant (a sacred promise) and its role as a "metaphor for Christ and the church". This emphasis places commitment above mere compatibility, recognising that individuals evolve throughout life and that commitment is fundamental to navigating these changes. It also challenges the secular notion that a spouse can fulfil all needs, instead fostering the expectation of occasional disappointment and positioning God as the head of the marriage. The format of counselling sessions remains consistent for both Christian and non-Christian couples; only the content related to spiritual matters is adjusted based on the clients' needs.

• Ideal Timing and Stigma

  While it's ideal for couples to seek help early, marriage and relationship counselling often proves to be "stickier" than mental health counselling, with couples commonly seeking assistance when the marriage is "in a bit of trouble". A therapeutic relationship for marriage and relationship counselling may span eight to ten sessions or even longer, potentially extending for years. Life to the Full aims to provide a non-judgmental environment, dispelling the misconception that seeking counselling implies something is "seriously wrong" or that "you must be on the brink of divorce". Instead, seeking post-marriage counselling can be viewed as a sign of "true strength of the relationship", acknowledging human imperfection and proactively preparing for the complexities of married life. Being a Christian does not exempt one from marital challenges; while an anchor in God is helpful, difficulties will still arise.

Ready to take this important step?

Contact Life to the Full today to learn more and schedule your sessions.