intimacy, passion, and commitment) as some of the biggest determining factors when deciding to get married.

Don’t venture into this choice lightly because love isn’t enough for a happy marriage.

According to theCDC, about 40 percent of marriages in the United States end in divorce.

Couple in counseling

Premarital counseling can save a marriage even before it begins.

A licensed therapist works with a couple to improve communication before miscommunication becomes a major issue.

Premarital counselors can help show couples a method of communication that allows both individuals to feel heard.

couple discussing an issue

Psychology Today also mentions that premarital counseling can help partners discover each other’s communication styles.

Dr. LaWanda N. Evans ofMarriage.comhighlights that marriage doesn’t solve existing issues, and even magnifies them.

This makes it critical to know the steps to take when trying to solve a conflict within a marriage.

couple arguing

In turn, they may have a major impact on a marriage.

A licensed therapist could help each partner address their past, potentially minimizing any negative affects on the relationship.

During sessions, couples learn some useful and popular tips on conflict resolution.

a wedding ring

“Yes-butting” statements are when individuals respond “yes, but” to issues.

Learning these conflict resolution tips can save couples time and stress.

Counseling sets realistic marriage expectations

There are many great andunderappreciated romantic comedies.

a woman unsure of marriage

These films make you swoon, cry, and anxiously await your happily ever after.

However, sometimes fans view these films as guides to happy endings instead of just entertaining fantasies.

This can become a problem in a relationship.

happy older couple

Premarital counseling allows couples to start an open and honest dialogue about their marriage expectations (viaMarriage).

They can discuss relationship deal breakers and how partners can realistically meet romantic demands.

Couples need to develop a realistic mindset for how to tackle these personality or professional possible changes.

Marriage.comlists expecting constant romance as an unrealistic expectation.

It may also help determine a couple’s compatibility.

What if marriage isn’t the right direction for the relationship?

However, premarital counseling may highlight some fundamental differences that cannot be repaired.

For many partners, premarital counseling strengthens their bonds.

Couples counseling helps a couple’s growth

Premarital counseling forces a couple to address many major topics.

These important relationship factors, if addressed combatively and carelessly, can lead to problems for the couple.

However, conflicts tackled with care and thoughtfulness can grow a relationship.

Counseling can strengthen a couple’s bond, and allow growth together and as individuals.

This may make them feel more fulfilled and satisfied with their relationship.

AsPsychology Todaymentions, premarital counseling helps couples prepare for what comes after the wedding.

It helps build the foundation for a dream marriage, not just a dream wedding.