Premarital Counselling in Cambridge, Ontario — Prepare/Enrich Program
Build a Strong Foundation Before Marriage
Premarital counselling in Cambridge helps couples explore strengths, clarify expectations, and prepare for life together. At Relationship Matters Therapy Centre we use the evidence-based Prepare/Enrich program to guide that process.
Sessions are available in person in Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo or virtually across Ontario
Happy marriages are based on a deep friendship. By this I mean a mutual respect for and enjoyment of each other's company.
John Gottman, The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work
Is Premarital Counselling Right for You?
Many engaged couples come to counselling not because something is wrong but because they want to invest in getting things right. Premarital counselling can help couples deepen communication, align expectations and shape their life together with intention.
You may be a good fit if you are:
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Engaged or planning marriage. You want to start strong, not just survive the first few years.
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Navigating big conversations. Finances, roles and family expectations deserve honest discussion before the wedding.
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Entering a blended family or second marriage. More history means more to work through and more to build on.
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Wanting a research-based program. You value structure, evidence and a clear process.
Option 1: Integrative Premarital Therapy
Approach: Flexible and conversation-based. Your therapist draws from proven methods like Gottman or EFT.
Focus: Deepening emotional connection, resolving recurring conflicts and exploring family-of-origin patterns.
Team: Facilitated by our diverse team of Registered Psychotherapists who specialise in relational health.
Best for: Couples who want a process tailored to where their relationship is right now.
Option 2: The Prepare/Enrich Program
Approach: A world-renowned, evidence-based program that begins with a comprehensive online assessment.
Focus: Objective insights across 10 or more categories including communication, finances and spiritual beliefs followed by structured feedback sessions.
Specialist: Exclusively facilitated by Kristina Beifuss, MDiv., RP, our resident Certified Prepare/Enrich Facilitator.
Best for: Couples who value data-driven insights and want a clear roadmap. This option also provides a completion certificate which some officiants require.
Two Paths, One Goal: A Stronger Foundation
Both options are grounded in evidence-based practice. The difference is in structure and approach.
What Is the Prepare/Enrich Program?
Prepare/Enrich is a research-based relationship assessment used by therapists across North America. It helps couples identify strengths and growth areas before marriage.
Couples complete a personalised online assessment covering communication patterns, conflict styles, expectations and shared values. Your clinician then uses those insights to guide conversations tailored to your relationship
What to Expect in the Prepare/Enrich Program
Each stage is designed to be clear and manageable. Here is how the process unfolds.
1
Assessment
Couples complete a personalised online assessment. It covers relationship strengths, communication patterns, conflict styles, values and family dynamics. Note that the assessment requires a one-time fee separate from session costs.
2
Feedback Session
Your therapist reviews your results and walks you through a personalised report. It highlights both your strengths and the areas with the most opportunity for growth.
3
Targeted Sessions
You and your partner explore the results together with your therapist. Together you discuss strategies for communication, conflict resolution and expectation alignment.
4
Skills Development
Couples learn practical tools for managing conflict, deepening emotional connection and setting shared goals.
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Summary and Action Planning
You and your therapist create a clear set of actionable steps. These help you move into marriage with confidence, clarity and a shared sense of direction.
Topics Explored in Premarital Counselling
Topics typically include:
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Communication and conflict resolution
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Emotional intimacy and connection
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Family of origin and boundaries
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Money and financial expectations
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Roles and shared meaning
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Sexuality and intimacy
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Parenting and future planning
Session Options & Format
Premarital counselling sessions are offered:
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In-Person at our Cambridge office
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Virtually for clients across ontario
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60-minute sessions
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Number of sessions varies depending on your goals and assessment results
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Flexible scheduling available
Why Choose Relationship Matters Therapy Centre
Couples choose us for premarital counselling because:
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We specialize in relational and systemic therapy
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We have clinicians trained in evidence-based models and Prepare/Enrich
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Warm, inclusive, anti-oppressive environment
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Locally based in Cambridge, with virtual therapy across Ontario
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Kristina Beifuss, MDiv., RP is a Certified Prepare/Enrich Facilitator
Frequently Asked Questions About Premarital Counselling in Cambridge
How many sessions does premarital counselling take?
The Prepare/Enrich program is based on your needs, so the amount of sessions involved is varied. The exact number depends on your goals and what your personalised assessment highlights. We will discuss what makes sense for you during your initial consultation.
Do we have to be engaged to start?
No. The program is valuable for any couple considering a long-term committed relationship, cohabitation or marriage. You do not need to be formally engaged to begin.
Is premarital counselling covered by insurance in Ontario?
Some extended health benefit plans cover sessions with a Registered Psychotherapist. Coverage varies by provider and plan. We recommend verifying your details directly with your insurance provider before booking. You can also visit our fees and insurance page for more information.
What is the difference between premarital counselling and couples therapy?
Premarital counselling is proactive and skill-building focused. It is designed for couples who are doing well and want to invest before challenges arise. Couples therapy typically addresses existing conflict, distress or disconnection.
Start Premarital Counselling in Cambridge Today
Relationship Matters Therapy Centre offers certified Prepare/Enrich facilitation, a warm and inclusive environment and clinicians who specialise in relational and systemic therapy.
This is not a generic program. It is a structured, personalised process designed around your relationship.
You get structure without rigidity. You get expertise without judgment. And you get a process that prepares you for the real, everyday work of building a life together.
Sessions are available in person in Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo and virtually for couples anywhere in Ontario.
Take the first step together or reach out to our team at admin@relationshipmatterstherapy.com — we would love to hear from you.
Disclaimer: This page is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, mental health care, or crisis support. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a mental health crisis, call 911, go to your nearest emergency department, or contact a local crisis line.