Catholic marriage counseling is a specific type of therapy for couples that is grounded in the teachings and values of the Catholic Church. Most often, at least in the past, this type of counselling has been provided by Catholic clergy or trained lay counselors who are familiar with the teachings of the Church. These clergy would integrate these teachings into the counseling process.
Catholic marriage counseling is meant to assist couples as they work to improve their relationship and address any challenges they may be facing in their marriage. This may include a variety of issues, for example communication problems, conflict resolution, intimacy, and trust.
Catholic marriage counseling often involves a combination of individual and couple sessions. It can also include various forms of participation in marriage preparation programs, for example retreats and workshops. The goal of this type of counseling is ultimately to aid couples in strengthening their relationship while simultaneously deepening their commitment to each other in accordance with the teachings of the Catholic Church.
Is my Church the only place to go for Catholic marriage counseling?
No! For a long time this was the most common practice simply because this was what was most readily available, and also because there wasn’t as much focus on the profession of therapy and counselling. Nowadays however, it is very possible to receive excellent quality Catholic marriage counseling from a qualified professional therapist who is not directly affiliated with the Church. This can be done in person or online. In fact, due to the demand for this service there are many therapists trained in evidence-based counseling techniques who incorporate the values and teachings of the Catholic Church into their practice when requested by the couple.
The most convenient way for many couples is to use online counseling services that offer Catholic marriage counseling. These services can provide couples with access to Catholic counselors who are fully equipped with the requisite knowledge and skills to provide guidance and support to help them strengthen their relationship and address any challenges they may be facing.
It’s important to find a counselor who is qualified, experienced, and a good fit for you and your partner. You may want to consider factors such as the counselor’s training, experience, and approach to therapy when selecting a counselor, whether they are affiliated with the Catholic Church or not.
What about premarital counselling for Catholic couples?
Catholic premarital counseling is another form of counseling designed to help engaged couples prepare for their upcoming marriage in accordance with the teachings and values of the Catholic Church. Premarital counseling is meant to help couples build a sturdy and strong foundation for their marriage, as well as to develop effective communication skills, and identify potential challenges and how to navigate them.
Like Catholic marriage counselling, pre-marriage counseling can be done at one’s local Church, in person, or online with a qualified counsellor.
The Catholic Church strongly encourages engaged couples to participate in premarital counseling before getting married. In fact, in some cases the Church may require it as a prerequisite for marriage.
Catholic marriage counseling as well as premarital counseling may be provided in person or online by qualified professionals who are trained in evidence-based counseling techniques. These professionals are sensitive to the values and teachings of the Catholic Church and couples should seek out a counselor who is experienced and a good fit for them to ensure that they get the most out of their premarital counseling experience.
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