Based on decades of social-scientific research and taught by our pastor, this six-week workshop offers proven methods for strengthening relationships, preventing divorce, and building up happy couples!
The next class will begin Sunday, October 4th.
Registration is now open! Click here to register:
Who is this for?
The Seven Principles Couples Program is appropriate for couples contemplating engagement, for pre-marital couples, for couples living together, and for couples who have been together or married for decades. If you feel you can get something out of this class, you are welcome!
What will we learn?
The Seven Principles Couples Program is based on the latest research about what makes marriages succeed, and what happens when relationships deteriorate and fail.
The aim is to provide couples with practical tools to enhance and improve your relationship, while understanding the research-based foundation from which the tools and skills are derived.
This program does not provide psychotherapy nor is it intended to take the place of marital therapy, but it does provide practical skills in an educational format that can help couples strengthen their relationships.
How do I know this curriculum is legit?
Visit The Gottman Institute to see the research and get an overview of the program.
Is this a religious class? Do I have to be Christian to participate?
No. This workshop is taught in a church building, by a pastor, but the curriculum is designed so that it can be applied in many relationships, cultures, and religious settings, including with zero religious affiliation at all.
Will I have to share details about my relationship with other people?
No! You will participate in exercises with your partner during class, but privately and away from others. You may choose to share with the class only what you’re comfortable with.
Is this like group therapy?
No. This workshop is educational only. The facilitator is not a licensed counselor, and will not provide therapy. She will, however, refer you to local counselors if you need additional support.
Can I come without my spouse/partner?
It’s necessary for couples to register together and attend sessions together in order to get the full benefit. However, if someone is sick, working, or otherwise busy and needs to miss a class, one partner may attend on their own.
What if I miss a class or two?
We encourage participants to come to all the classes they are available for. Some build on one another. But there are ways to catch up if something comes up!
Who should NOT participate?
If you are experiencing any of the following, this workshop will not be the most helpful solution for you:
Severe relationship distress
Emotional or physical abuse
Serious emotional or mental health problems
One or both partners are actively addicted to drugs or alcohol
Serious compulsive behavior with gambling, sexual acting out, or other significantly disruptive behaviors.
About the Facilitator:
Rev. Sarah Juist serves as the pastor of Parkwood Presbyterian Church, and has been an ordained Christian minister since 2015. She is a teacher at heart, and enjoys bringing people together for the good of their families, their communities, and the world.