Types of Couples Intensives & What to Expect
Watch video here!
Couples Intensives are immersive experiences customized for a couple, the issues they bring in, and the goals that each partner have in mind. Examples of types of Intensives and what to expect are listed below. More will be learned during introductory screening calls with therapist.
BEFORE THE INTENSIVE
- screening calls with both partners
- completion of paperwork by both partners
- preparatory activities
DURING THE INTENSIVE
Half-day Intensives
- Ideal for couples who want to combine a few sessions together, e.g. 3-4 h sessions monthly
- Can be used as follow-up maintenance after a longer Intensive
1-day Intensives
- For marriage preparation.
- For emergency situations. It does not solve the problem per se, but it “stops the bleeding” temporarily. Subsequent days will be needed to address the issue more comprehensively. E.g., big conflict before a planned trip or a significant event (wedding, family celebration).
2-day Intensives
- An assessment of the situation and better understanding of past circumstances are addressed.
3-day Intensives
- An assessment of the situation, understanding of past circumstances, and tools to move relationship forward.
4-day Intensives
- For a combination of factors. Days maybe spaced out from each other to allow for reflection and integration.
- Addresses more painful and emotional issues such as discovery of an affair.
5-day Intensives
- For a combination of Couples and Individual Intensives.
AFTER THE INTENSIVE
What Happens Post-Intensive?
After the Intensive, you will feel a significant sense of relief and clarity. After all, you have just completed months of therapy in a few days. To continue this growth and prevent that past habits resurface, it is highly recommended that you do some follow-up work periodically. If you were referred by a counselor, we will send a summary report of your Intensive to that counselor. If you do not have a couples counselor, we will be glad to help you find one close to you. Also, if you live in Iowa, Washington State, or Florida, you could continue working with us through online mini-intensives every 1-2 months. It will be your decision on how to continue working on your relationship, and we will be glad to support you in any way you choose.
