Premarital Counseling in Oklahoma City, OK
If you’re ready to get married but want to better prepare for what’s ahead, book a premarital counseling appointment with Karen Cox, MS, LMFT, CMIP, at ACT Family Therapy. Together, you and your partner can discover the tools to build a positive, fulfilling relationship for the years to come. Call today in Oklahoma City, OK or use the convenient online scheduler.
Request an AppointmentWhat is premarital counseling?
Premarital counseling is a type of therapy designed for couples planning to get married. It’s a process that involves working with a licensed therapist like Karen Cox, MS, LMFT, CMIP, to explore and discuss important topics related to marriage, such as:
- Communication
- Conflict resolution
- Finances
- Intimacy
- Family dynamics
At ACT Family Therapy, Karen is a certified Gottman trainer in “The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work.” She also offers “Getting the Love You Want,” a 14-week couples program developed by renowned therapist Harville Hendrix, PhD. This program gives couples the skill set to create a safe relationship with a sustainable, deep connection that results in a joyful, content partnership. The goal is to prepare and fully equip both of you for a healthy and happy marriage. As your relationship grows, Karen can also support you through marriage counseling or ongoing couples therapy.
Why should we consider premarital counseling?
There are several compelling reasons to consider premarital counseling. First and foremost, it can help you and your partner build a strong foundation for your marriage. By addressing potential areas of conflict or misunderstanding early on, you set yourselves up for a more successful and fulfilling relationship over the long run.
Premarital counseling can also help you learn new skills and strategies for working through challenges together, which proves valuable for maintaining a healthy relationship over time.
What’s involved with premarital counseling?
When you participate in premarital counseling, you can expect to engage in a variety of activities and discussions designed to help you and your partner get to know each other better and identify areas of strength and weakness in your relationship.
Your sessions may involve exercises such as role-playing, writing assignments, or guided conversations about specific topics that matter to your future together.
What are the benefits of premarital counseling?
Some of the benefits of premarital counseling include improved communication skills, increased emotional intimacy, and a deeper understanding of each other’s needs and expectations.
You may also gain greater insight into your own patterns of behavior and thought, which can help you make more intentional choices in your relationship. Premarital counseling can additionally help you identify potential areas of conflict early on, giving you a better chance of resolving issues before they become major problems. Should you ever want to involve extended family dynamics, Karen also offers family therapy.
To book premarital counseling sessions at ACT Family Therapy, call today at (405) 820-7272 or schedule an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should we start premarital counseling?
There’s no single right time, but many couples begin several months before the wedding so they have space to explore important topics without the pressure of last-minute planning. Karen can work with your timeline.
What topics does premarital counseling cover?
Sessions typically cover communication, conflict resolution, finances, intimacy, family dynamics, expectations, and shared goals, helping you build a strong foundation before marriage.
We get along great. Do we still need premarital counseling?
Even strong couples benefit. Premarital counseling helps you understand each other more deeply, build lasting skills, and identify potential challenges early, setting you up for an even healthier marriage.
How long does premarital counseling take?
It varies by couple and program. The “Getting the Love You Want” program runs 14 weeks, while other couples may need only a few focused sessions. Karen will recommend an approach based on your needs.
What is the Gottman approach to premarital counseling?
As a certified Gottman trainer, Karen uses “The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work” to help couples strengthen friendship, manage conflict, and build a shared, hopeful vision for their future together.
Is premarital counseling confidential?
Yes. Your sessions provide a private, non-judgmental space, and your conversations are kept confidential within professional and legal guidelines so you can speak openly.
How do we schedule premarital counseling?
Call ACT Family Therapy at (405) 820-7272 or use the online scheduler. The friendly office staff will help you and your partner find a convenient time.