As a marriage counselor in Atlanta, GA, and someone who’s sat on both sides of the couch—as a client and now a therapist—I get it. Bringing up premarital counseling can feel a little nerve-wracking. You’re excited about the future with your partner, things are going well, and the last thing you want is to come off like you’re waiting for the other shoe to drop. But here’s what I want to say to you: premarital counseling isn’t about fixing something that’s broken. It’s about building something strong that can weather the storms life might throw your way.
I’ve walked through my own share of relationship struggles. I’ve also seen how powerful it can be when couples take the time to prepare their relationship—not just react when things get hard. So, if you’re wondering how to bring it up without making your partner think something’s wrong, let’s talk about it.
Start With Why: “I Want the Best Marriage Possible”
When you bring up premarital counseling, lead with your heart. Instead of focusing on potential issues, talk about your desire to grow together. You might say something like, “I love what we have, and I want us to be intentional about building a strong foundation for marriage.” That’s not fear-based—that’s love-based. It says, “I care so much about us that I’m willing to invest in our future.” A lot of folks think counseling is only for couples in trouble. That’s just not true. Some of the healthiest couples I’ve worked with were the ones who got support before any big issues showed up. They weren’t trying to prevent disaster. They were planting seeds for lasting connection, trust, and joy.
Normalize the Investment
Think about it this way: if you were planning to climb a mountain, you wouldn’t just wing it. You’d train, get your gear together, maybe hire a guide. Marriage is one of the biggest journeys you’ll ever take. It deserves preparation. I often tell couples that premarital counseling is like relationship maintenance. It’s about learning how to communicate through stress, how to manage conflict with grace, and how to support one another through change.
In fact, couples who attend premarital counseling are more likely to have strong, lasting marriages because they’ve already had conversations that some people avoid until it’s too late. If your partner is hesitant, try sharing how counseling is a wise investment in something that already means a lot to both of you. It’s not a red flag. It’s a sign that you’re serious about doing this thing right.
Speak From the Heart
Let your partner know this isn’t coming from fear, but from a deep desire to thrive together. Maybe you say, “I’ve been thinking a lot about our future, and I want to make sure we have the tools we need—not just for the wedding, but for the marriage.” It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of planning a ceremony. But after the cake is cut and the guests go home, it’s just the two of you. That’s when the real work—and the real beauty—of marriage begins. And that’s what you’re preparing for. You might also share a bit of your personal “why.” For me, growing up in a home impacted by divorce gave me a strong desire to help couples do things differently. I saw the pain that came from unresolved hurt. And I also saw the power of healing when couples chose to grow together.
Pick the Right Moment
Timing matters. You probably don’t want to bring this up in the middle of an argument or during a stressful week. Choose a calm, connected moment—maybe while taking a walk or enjoying a relaxed weekend together. Start with curiosity. “Hey, have you ever thought about doing premarital counseling? I’ve been learning more about it, and I think it could be really good for us.” This opens the door without pressure. It invites conversation instead of setting off alarm bells. If your partner has concerns, listen. They might need time to warm up to the idea. That’s okay. This isn’t about convincing them—it’s about starting the conversation.
Premarital Counseling Isn’t a Red Flag—It’s a Green Light
When couples come to me for premarital counseling in Atlanta, GA, they’re not coming in broken. They’re coming in with a vision for their relationship. They’re saying, “We want to be equipped for this next chapter.” We cover real-life stuff—communication, finances, conflict, family dynamics, intimacy, and expectations. We talk about what you both bring into the relationship from your past, and how to show up with compassion and understanding in the present. And let me say this clearly: you don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from counseling. Some of the strongest marriages I know were built with support from the beginning. A marriage counselor in Atlanta, GA isn’t there to judge you. We’re here to guide you.
Why This Conversation Matters
If you’ve been thinking about bringing up premarital counseling, trust that instinct. You’re not being overly cautious. You’re being wise. Your relationship deserves care, attention, and a solid foundation. Marriage isn’t something we just figure out as we go. It’s something we build—with love, with effort, and sometimes, with a little help from someone who’s walked alongside other couples on this journey. So don’t be afraid to bring it up. Let it be a conversation that brings you closer, not something that drives a wedge. And if you’re looking for someone to walk with you as you prepare for marriage, I’d be honored to be that person.
Thinking About the Future Together? Start Premarital Counseling in Atlanta, GA
Are you wondering how to make sure your relationship has the tools it needs to go the distance? You’re not alone—and you’re not jumping the gun. Choosing premarital counseling isn’t about expecting problems. It’s about choosing to be intentional, prepared, and rooted in something strong. At Faith and Family Empowerment, we offer premarital counseling in Atlanta, GA that helps couples communicate with clarity, build lasting trust, and step into marriage with confidence.
- Contact us to schedule your initial appointment.
- Learn more about our services and approach.
- Begin your journey with premarital counseling and build your marriage with purpose and connection.
Other Therapy Services Offered at Faith and Family Empowerment
Every relationship has its own story—and every couple has unique needs along the way. At Faith and Family Empowerment in Decatur, GA, we offer more than just premarital counseling. Our team provides personalized, in-person and online support for couples and individuals working through real-life challenges. Whether you’re laying the groundwork for a strong marriage, exploring big decisions through discernment counseling, or rebuilding after broken trust, we’re here to help. We also offer Christian Counseling, Depression Support Groups, and other services to meet you where you are. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Explore what we offer and find the support that fits your journey.
About the Author
Rashad Morgan is a dedicated couples and marriage therapist in Decatur, GA who specializes in helping partners rebuild trust, deepen connection, and prepare for lasting commitment. With personal experience navigating the impact of divorce in his own family, Rashad brings a compassionate, grounded perspective to his work—meeting couples where they are and walking alongside them with empathy and honesty.
As a husband and father, Rashad knows that strong relationships don’t happen by accident—they take intention, healing, and support. He offers premarital counseling in Atlanta, GA to help couples lay a strong foundation before marriage begins. Whether you’re newly engaged or just beginning to talk about the future, Rashad is here to guide you through the conversations that matter most. Want to build a relationship that lasts? Reach out today to take the first step forward—together.