Secular pre-engagement and premarital counseling: in person and online in TN
premarital counseling in nashville
why secular premarital counseling?
Feel secure knowing you’re completing an evidence based program while having the freedom to define faith/spirituality in your own unique way.
You and your partner are looking for secular, non-faith based premarital counseling in Nashville that truly prepares your relationship for a lasting, healthy marriage. Whether you’re newly engaged or considering engagement, you want a premarital counseling program that honors the significance of this commitment and equips you with practical tools to communicate, resolve conflict, and build emotional intimacy.
My approach to secular premarital and pre-engagement counseling is grounded in research- not religion- helping couples who may not feel aligned with traditional faith-based programs confidently move into marriage with clarity and connection. Secular does not mean we cannot bring faith into the room. It means we get to create an inclusive environment for your premarital work that allows you and your partner to decide if, and how, spirituality will function in your marriage.
what we cover in sessions
We will start with assessments on primary relationship areas like communication, conflict, money, sex, family, relationship roles, and faith to know what areas are already really strong, and where we should focus on growth. That way, we can celebrate what you are doing well and build up skills in the places that you need them.
Program options
Premarital counseling generally lasts 4-10 sessions, one session per week. Some couples find it easier to schedule at a bi-weekly basis if they have enough time prior to the wedding. I want you to feel prepared for the next phase without having to commit to long term care. I also offer a 4 hour premarital intensive express format. Weekday and weekend options are available for the intensive format.
Individualized support
Each relationship is unique and your counseling should reflect that. If your relationship needs specific counseling for couples who disagree on having kids, navigating difficult in laws, or how to blend families in a second marriage, we can do that together. Sometimes premarital counseling turns into general couples counseling when exploring a specific roadblock.
CONTACT
CONTACT
Schedule a free, 15 minute consultation call to talk through your needs and if we might be a good fit together. We can talk through scheduling on this call as well to make sure your premarital program works with both of your calendars.
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Secular premarital counseling is a nonreligious, evidence-based approach that helps couples strengthen communication, resolve conflict, and prepare for a healthy marriage. I utilize the PREPARE/ENRICH program for premarital work. Instead of scripture or faith-based teachings, sessions focus on the primary domains researchers found that couples struggle with in marriage. It’s ideal for for couples seeking premarital counseling in Nashville that aligns with their personal values rather than a specific religious tradition.
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Most couples complete the program in 4-6 sessions, and if we add specialized sessions for certain topics it comes out to 6-10 sessions total. I also offer the express 4 hour intensive format if you’re short on time. This 4 hour program still qualifies you for the marriage license discount in the state of Tennessee. Your unique number of sessions depends on your goals, relationship history, and whether you want an express format or a deeper, more comprehensive experience.
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No, and in fact sometimes it is better to come in prior to engagement! Wedding planning can be time consuming. Many couples start pre-engagement counseling to explore compatibility, clarify expectations, and build communication skills before making a major commitment.
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Yes! Secular counseling is often the best options for mixed-belief, interfaith, or nonreligious couples because it focuses on shared values, communication, and skill building- not tied to any particular religion. Many interfaith couples in Nashville choose this approach to avoid feeling boxed into a faith-based program that might not be able to accommodate the faith backgrounds of both individuals.
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No, premarital counseling is not required to get married in Tennessee. However, completing a certified premarital counseling program can reduce your Tennessee marriage license fee.
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Yes! In addition to in-person sessions, I offer online premarital counseling for Tennessee based couples who prefer virtual support. Telehealth sessions follow the same structure as our in-person program. At this time, my 4 hour intensive format is only in person in Nashville. That’ a long time to stare at each other on Zoom.
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Cost varies slightly depending on number of sessions. For weekly counseling, my session rate is $160 per session; for 4-6 sessions that would be $640-$960. My 4 hour intensive premarital program format is $600.
frequently asked questions
