Lay the Foundation for a Healthy Marriage With Premarital Counseling in Watertown, SD
Are you a newlywed? Did you just get engaged? These are exciting milestones… but what have you and your partner done to prepare for taking your relationship to the next level?
Chances are, you’ve thought about your honeymoon, a future home together, maybe even what to name your kids. But have finances crossed your mind? Division of labor? A retirement plan? While these are not very fun or romantic topics, they’re important ones. That’s where premarital counseling comes in. Premarital counseling offers engaged couples the opportunity to strengthen their relationship before saying “I do.” At Aspen Counseling, our skilled couples therapists help partners in Watertown, South Dakota, lay the foundation for a healthy, resilient marriage in spite of the odds.
What Is the Point of Premarital Counseling?
Premarital counseling offers a safe, supportive space for couples to explore important topics that often go unspoken, such as finances, family expectations, conflict resolution, intimacy, roles, and long-term goals. It also teaches important communication skills and conflict management so that you can face future difficulties head-on. Working with a therapist, you can discuss expectations and shared values with your partner to better prepare both of you for married life. If any of these sound like you…
- You and your partner have arguments that don't get resolved
- You feel like you're always the one who compromises to keep the peace
- You're concerned about how your partner's financial situation will affect you
- You're worried about losing affection or having a diminished sex life after marriage
- You want to find healthier ways to resolve conflict
- You want to resolve religious or financial differences
- You want to define your marital roles and expectations
… Then premarital counseling could be a great benefit to you and your partner.
Why Is This Form of Counseling Necessary?
When you live with someone, you will inevitably have arguments ranging from the mundane to serious issues. At the same time, the intimate nature of marriage requires that you talk to your partner about everything, no matter how awkward or uncomfortable. Wouldn’t you like the chance to practice? During sessions, a premarital counselor will guide you through structured discussions and practical exercises designed to enhance communication and emotional connection. We will likely bring up topics that you've discussed previously as well as subjects you haven't considered before.
How you argue will be a big part of the story of how you are as a couple. You’ll learn how to listen with empathy, express needs clearly, resolve disagreements respectfully, and manage stress as a team. Learn how to de-escalate arguments and how to fight fairly, so you don't cause emotional pain from things you'll never be able to take back. Early skills learned in premarital counseling can prevent common pitfalls later in marriage.
A Loving, Lasting Relationship Awaits
Getting married is one of life's most treasured experiences, and premarital counseling can help you and your partner turn that momentous occasion into a loving, lasting relationship. For guidance and support to strengthen your future marriage, contact Aspen Counseling Services today so we can schedule a premarital counseling appointment. We see individuals and couples in Watertown and the surrounding areas.