How to Choose a Couples Workshop

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How To Choose a Couples Workshop

• www.principleskills.com

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• Attending a couples weekend workshop can be a
  worthwhile investment in your relationship, but
  selecting the right workshop can be a daunting
  task.
• I conducted an extensive research into couples
  workshops and retreats. As a disclaimer, I am a
  certified Gottman Institute Therapist who offers
  The Art and Science of Love Couples Workshop.

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• However, there are some general guidelines for
  anyone searching for a high-quality couples
  workshop or retreat, some of which are
• Privacy
• Research-backed Methods
• Recognition of a Higher Power
• Opportunity to Practice Skills
• Passion and Experience
• Take-home Materials

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• Privacy
• Privacy will allow you to get to the heart of
  matters with your partner.
• Couples should expect privacy and a certain level
  of anonymity. Workshops do not require (and
  should not encourage) couples to make public
  disclosures about sensitive matters involving
  their relationships.

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• Research-backed Methods
• Evidence-based relationship methods offer the
  best chance for couples to learn meaningful
  skills and implement them, knowing that more than
  chance, timing or charisma is behind positive
  changes.

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• Recognition of a Higher Power
• While relying on solid data, instructors should
  also recognize that for many people, a higher
  power exists which can facilitate healing and
  change.
• Behavioral changes acquired at a workshop may
  lack the depth needed for sustainable change
  without a deeper purpose of meaning assigned to
  those changes.

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• Opportunity to Practice Skills
• A sound workshop will give couples plenty of time
  to practice the skills they learn, and reach out
  to the instructor for assistance at any point.
• The instructor-to-couples ratio should be kept to
  about 10-to-1 or less.

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• Passion and ExperienceAn experienced and
  licensed marriage counselor, whose practice
  focuses on couples, is your best bet for capable
  assistance in navigating the complexities of
  relationships.
• If you attend a workshop with a less experienced
  instructor, make sure a seasoned therapist will
  also be on-hand as a co-presenter.

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• Take-home Materials
• A high-quality workshop will provide you with
  materials and workbooks to take home, giving you
  the tools to continue to strengthen your
  relationship.

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• Attending a couples weekend workshop is a
  worthwhile investment in your relationship at any
  stage. Besides gaining new information and
  skills, remember that such a retreat is an
  opportunity for re-connection, healing and
  romance with your partner in a space and time
  carved out just to focus on each other.
• For more insights on Couple Therapy, visit
  www.principleskills.com

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• Thank You!