Grand Rapids Premarital Counseling

Grand Rapids, Forest Hills Premarital Counseling that Fits Your Lifestyle

Well, you wouldn’t be on this page if you weren’t engaged (or were not about to be), so let us take a moment to wish you and your significant other warm congratulations! Your life is about to change in so many ways, and we’re here to help coach you through the process while also preparing you for what’s ahead.

At this moment, you might already be neck-deep in wedding plans and all of the details that go into the main event. Who to invite? Where to host the ceremony? Who is going to officiate? Do you really want to sit talkative Aunt Di next to your introverted work friend? Do you want a seating plan at all? What kind of cake do you want? (Maybe turn the whole thing on it’s head and order a PIE — that’ll throw everyone off.)

In all seriousness, all of the planning, decision making, and compromises that go into planning the big day pale in comparison to the much more serious and numerous considerations just around the bend. Will you both work when you have kids? Will you have kids? Whose parents will you live near? What kind of life do you want to see for yourselves in five, ten, fifty years?

The above questions are just the tip of the iceberg. What you’re about to enter into is potentially the single-most transformative relationship of either of your lives, so why not make sure that all of these invested emotions and plans are all pointed towards the same thing: mutual marital bliss.

Do I Even Need Grand Rapids Premarital Counseling?

“Need” might be too strong of a word (unless, of course, your officiator or state requires it), but a better way to put it is that getting premarital counseling in Grand Rapids is a really good idea. Like, a really good idea. Even — if not especially — if things are picture-perfect between the two of you right now.

Many people tend to tie the knot when they’ve been together for exactly enough time to come to the conclusion that they’d rather not spend their time or romantic emotions and affection with anyone else. This blissful period also happens to be the best time for the two of you to sit down and talk human-to-human about who you are and what you expect from your future. It’s way more difficult to discuss these things in a few years, when communication patterns and unsettled scores have set in, and you’ve grown hardened to a certain behavior or personality trait. Just ask any married person (or a divorcee, for that matter), and they’ll back me up on this.

Also, if things are “just peachy” between you two at the moment, you have no idea what either of you is like when major, life-altering stresses and traumas come along. You may have experienced hard times personally, but the game is much different when you have more than just yourself to consider.

At Thriveworks Grand Rapids premarital counseling, we’ll go over all of that and more. Now is the time to talk about your varying perspectives and the challenges just around the bend — which are many, but totally surmountable with some preemptive groundwork and coaching.

What Kind of Topics Will We Discuss in Grand Rapids Premarital Counseling?

Let’s say you or your significant other have some apprehensions about getting married. Perfectly normal. Possibly even more normal than having zero concerns whatsoever. Seeing a premarital counselor is the perfect time to examine and unpack each of these concerns to see what’s going on and what can be done about them.

Some potential concerns include:

  • You don’t want marriage to turn your beautiful relationship into one of the less-than-happy marriages you see around you
  • You love this person now, but will you always love them?
  • What’s the point of getting married in the first place?
  • You come from different belief systems
  • One or both of you isn’t on a steady career path
  • Financial worries

When you meet with one of the professional therapists at Thriveworks Grand Rapids for premarital counseling, you’ll have ample opportunity to discuss all of these things and more in a judgment-free environment with an objective third party to keep the conversation moving in a positive direction.

There’s also a chance that after counseling the two of you might decide to part ways. As strange as it sounds, that more than likely means that the sessions did what they were designed to do: helped you both make the best decision for each of your personal self-interests.

Marriage isn’t something that should be entered into lightly. In your sessions, you might discover things about yourself or your significant other that would make a marriage incredibly difficult, if not painful. You can avoid that. At the same time, finding these things out now can help you both work through whatever issues you have, so they don’t explode a few years down the road and destroy what could have been a lifetime of romantic partnership.

Do yourself a favor. Figure this stuff out now with someone who knows the right questions to ask. You’ll not only save yourself a lot of potential grief, but you’ll set yourselves up for years of happiness and an ever-deepening connection. In fact, studies indicate those who go through premarital counseling experience an average of 30 percent higher relationship satisfaction (WebMD).

Invest in Your Relationship and Your Future

Some people think they’re saving money by skipping the premarital counseling in Grand Rapids and just jumping headfirst into a marriage, when in reality, they’re setting themselves up for thousands of dollars and years’ worth of trouble.

For a relatively small investment in counseling, you’ll potentially save yourself from paying a divorce lawyer or losing half of your assets to a disgruntled ex-spouse.

The professionals at Thriveworks Grand Rapids, Forest Hills Premarital Counseling have worked with a variety of couples from all walks of life—couples who are doing well and couples who are not doing so well. Many of those couples are working to straighten out a mess they could have avoided from the onset by seeking premarital counseling.

Further Reading
Premarital Counseling Builds Better Union. 2003. WebMD.com.

Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

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Overall Rating: 5★★★★★ based on 23 5 1 23 reviews. See all reviews
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

Angel

★★★★★
Angel was the sweetest person! I’m so glad I chose this place for help! I felt like a crazy person at first but she made me feel like I was just normal and just going through a lot! I really appreciate angel!
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So Thankful

★★★★★
Thriveworks is a blessing. I got an appointment with a counselor within a week. Margaret Rose was wonderful. She was kind and insightful and I felt safe with her. I highly recommend Thriveworks Grand Rapids
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

Denise-NP

★★★★★
My son saw Denise for the first time recently and she was great. She seemed very well informed in every area and so willing to help my son with his anxiety. She actually spent time with us and seemed to care. I'm so glad we found her.
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Denise Skonieczny NP

★★★★★
I was in need of a psychiatrist for chronic depression and anxiety. I came across thrive having only a 4 month wait instead 9 to 12 month wait with any other psychiatrist. This was wonderful news. I met Denise as my clinician. She is very empathetic very knowledgeable. She has helped me alot sine my first vist. She is very dedicated to her patients which I truly appreciate. I would highly recommend her for any psychiatric needs. I think she goes above and beyond her role. She is a caring individual. There should be more people like Denise. She needs to be recognized for her work.
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Wonderful

★★★★★
I am so pleased with my therapist, Lori. She does an outstanding job. When I read her specialties online I knew I had the right person, but when I met her for the first time I was convinced. I’ve raved about her to numerous people and have recommended Thriveworks a few times to people I know - everyone could use a Lori in their lives to help sort things out. The old adage comes to mind: “if you give a man a fish, he will eat for a day, if you teach a man to fish he will eat for a lifetime.” I am learning the skills to live and navigate life circumstances. I am calmer, happier and better off than I was when I first walked through the door. I’ve been given a gift and I am most grateful for all her help.
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

No compassion

★☆☆☆☆
I saw Nancy. I specifically asked for someone who SPECIALIZES in domestic abuse. I am in an abusive relationship and she kept telling me "it's your choice to stay." She always questioned why I felt things or did things, like I should have this all figured out. I'm seeking therapy because I feel like I cannot leave and I know that's not a good thing. She had no compassion for what I have been through and just said it's my choice. No addressing the pain I've been through and how I have been affected by this. I feel like I can't leave because I feel like I would fall apart if I left, but I feel like I'm dying inside the relationship. This is a whole process that occurs over a long period of time. I have no self esteem, I have tried to leave and there are so many threats and manipulation, etc. I get shit from everyone about leaving, like its as simple as that for me. I wanted compassion from a counselor. I needed validation of my feelings, not another person telling me that I choose to live like this, like I want my life to be a living hell. I realize that I do make this choice ultimately, but there is so much more to this situation and I needed to process it. I am a doormat to everyone and she just asks why I do this. I NEED TO FIGURE OUT WHY and how to change! Her tone and questioning made me feel like she was being judgemental. She is a nice person, but she is not therapeutic. I couldn't move on with her after this. It felt like she was invalidating my feelings just like the rest of the world, like nothing I feel is real and I'm crazy. I shut down. I got a letter about being non compliant, that's why. It was no longer a priority for me to go and get treated like that. She never tried to help me process my feelings, just to say positive phrases to myself and eat healthy and exercise. This stuff is good, but doesn't help me deal with the things I have been through.
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

Awesome!

★★★★★
I have nothing but good things to say about my therapy with Lori. I was hesitant to begin a therapy regimine without knowing anything about the therapist. After the first session I knew I had found the right person. Lori is so adept at pinpointing the problems and gives very useful ideas of how to handle them. She is very personable and easy to talk with. I will miss these sessions but I have the confidence to know I have the tools to deal with whatever comes my way. I am a much happier person!
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

All is well!

★★★★★
All is well!
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

Fantastic. Look forward to future sessions

★★★★★
Fantastic. Look forward to future sessions with my son!
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

My therapist is amazing

★★★★★
My therapist is amazing she listens to everything I say she is very nice and kind I would recommend her to anybody that needs help i am so blessed to have her
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

Good grasp of my problem.

★★★★★
Good grasp of my problem.
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

Very professional

★★★★★
Very professional. Counselor is engaging and helpful.
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

I actually did not get to

★★★★★
I actually did not get to bring in my daughters due to a personal issue, but when I spoke with their therapist over the phone she was very helpful and although she isn’t my therapist she talked to me about my issue and helped me calm down preventing a panic attack that was starting. I am very thankful to her and will be rescheduling my daughters to see her.
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

Everything was great.

★★★★★
Everything was great. Alot of information given
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

I look forward to

★★★★★
I look forward to working with Jason.
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

Lori is amazing.

★★★★★
Lori is amazing. Relatable, fluid conversation. Going back next week!
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

Amazing availability

★★★★★
The therapists availability is amazing. The scheduling was smooth as well as paperwork. Thank you!
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

Work Wonders

★★★★★
I've had one lesson so far and I can already tell that this place is going to work wonders.
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

Enjoyed

★★★★★
I enjoyed having my visit at your location.
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

Highly Satisfied

★★★★★
My meetings with my therapist were thought provoking but humorous. We clicked together the first time I met her ten years ago. As she moves on, I know that I am able to move forward also.
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

Integrity!

★★★★★
Grand Rapids is an awesome place, filled with caring employees and overflowing with integrity. You can be sure that you are in good hands, and will see great changes in your life after a few sessions with these counselors.
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

Wonderful

★★★★★
is wonderful - the office is beautiful, the therapists are amazing and everyone makes you feel so comfortable. Thank you, thank you!
Thriveworks Counseling Grand Rapids

Great Therapy!

★★★★★
You won't find a better therapist than Olja Haglund! She moved here recently from another practice where I originally was her patient and I "moved" here with her. If you are looking for a therapist who will give you what you need, not what you want, look no further....I highly recommend and the professionals who work here!
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Thriveworks Counseling

Schedule your first appointment with a Thriveworks Counselor or Life Coach!

  • 710 Kenmoor Ave SE Suite 100
    Grand Rapids Charter Township, MI 49546

  • Mon-Fri:8AM-9PM
    Sat-Sun:8AM-5PM

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