Premarital Counseling
Build a Strong Foundation for Your Marriage
Marriage is one of life’s biggest commitments. Premarital counseling gives engaged couples and those seriously considering marriage the tools to build a lasting relationship before saying “I do.” At Sunrise Counseling Services, our therapists help you strengthen your bond, uncover potential challenges, and celebrate the strengths you already share.
Why Consider Premarital Counseling?
Even the most in-love couples benefit from setting aside time to prepare for marriage. Premarital counseling is not about pointing out flaws. It is about learning more about each other, creating shared goals, and building skills that keep your relationship strong through all seasons of life.
Whether you are newly engaged, planning a wedding, or simply thinking ahead, counseling helps you:
Improve communication and conflict resolution
Develop healthy financial habits as a couple
Explore expectations about roles, intimacy, and family life
Understand each other’s personality styles and values
Create a plan for navigating stress and life transitions
What to Expect in Premarital Counseling
Our premarital program is based on the Prepare/Enrich assessment, one of the most widely used and researched tools for couples worldwide. This evidence-based approach helps you and your partner gain personalized insight into the strengths and growth areas of your relationship.
During counseling, we will work through topics such as:
Communication and Conflict Resolution – learning to express needs clearly and resolve disagreements respectfully
Finances – creating shared plans around spending, saving, and financial goals
Roles and Responsibilities – clarifying household roles and balancing expectations
Intimacy and Affection – deepening your emotional and physical connection
Family and Parenting – navigating in-laws, family traditions, and hopes for children
Spiritual Beliefs and Values – honoring similarities and differences in faith or worldview
Personality and Stress Management – understanding how your individual strengths shape your relationship
Session Details and Cost
Format: 1:1 counseling for couples (in person at our Clarksville office, online, or hybrid)
Frequency: Weekly or bi-weekly, based on your needs
Duration: Typically 4 to 8 sessions (flexible)
Cost: $175 per session
Tennessee Marriage License Discount
Couples in Tennessee can save money on their marriage license by completing premarital counseling. Under state law, if you complete a qualifying 4-hour premarital preparation program and submit a notarized Certificate of Completion, you can receive up to $60 off your marriage license fee.
In Montgomery County, for example, the marriage license fee is reduced from about $107.50 to $47.50 when you complete premarital counseling. Sunrise Counseling Services provides the certificate you will need to claim this discount.
Is Premarital Counseling Right for Us?
Premarital counseling is a good fit if you are:
Recently engaged and planning your wedding
Thinking seriously about marriage and want to prepare well
Wanting to strengthen your relationship before making a lifelong commitment
Navigating important differences in background, family expectations, or finances
Looking for structured support to build confidence in your relationship
Frequently Asked Questions
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Most couples complete 4 to 8 sessions, though the number can be adjusted based on your goals.
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Premarital counseling is a self-pay service. Sessions are $175 each.
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Yes. We offer in-person, telehealth, and hybrid options to fit your schedule.
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You will receive a notarized Certificate of Completion after finishing the program. Present this certificate at your county clerk’s office to qualify for the discount.
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Not at all. Many couples come to counseling already in a healthy relationship. Premarital counseling is about building skills and confidence to keep your relationship strong.
Take the First Step Together
Your marriage deserves a strong foundation. Premarital counseling can help you enter this new season of life with clarity, confidence, and connection. To get started, email us or call 931-494-6803.
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