When you start searching for premarital counselling, the number of options can feel overwhelming. Church-based classes, online courses, traditional therapy, personality tests, Prepare and Enrich programs, each one claims to be effective. But which one actually helps you build a strong, lasting marriage? And which option is right for you as a couple, not just in theory, but in real life?
This guide is designed to simplify your decision-making process. It offers a clear, honest comparison of the most common premarital counselling options available to couples in Ontario so you can choose with confidence.
Whether you are planning to meet in person in Burlington or Oakville, or virtually anywhere in Ontario, this article will help you move from confusion to clarity.
The Five Most Common Types of Premarital Counselling
| Option | Format | Strengths | Limitations | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Church-Based Premarital Classes | Group setting | Faith-focused, community support, foundational teachings | Generalized content, not personalized, often no clinical guidance | Christian couples wanting spiritual preparation in a group format |
| Online DIY Courses | Self-paced videos and worksheets | Flexible, inexpensive | No personalization, no facilitator, no feedback or skill-building | Couples with limited time seeking basic guidance |
| Traditional Premarital Counselling | Private therapy sessions | Flexible, responsive to your needs | No formal assessment, topics may be missed | Couples wanting open-ended conversation but not formal structure |
| Personality-Based Quizzes or Apps | Online test results | Insightful and fun, helps couples reflect | Limited depth, no integration into real skill-building | Couples curious about compatibility, not seeking full preparation |
| Prepare and Enrich Program | Assessment plus structured sessions | Personalized, research-backed, available faith-integrated, facilitated by a trained therapist | Requires initial assessment and session commitment | Couples who want clinically guided, evidence-based relationship preparation |
Why Many Couples Now Prefer Structured Programs
While traditional counselling and faith-based programs have their strengths, many couples are seeking something more comprehensive through couples counselling. They want a program that combines:
- Personalized insight based on their specific relationship
- Clinical expertise from trained professionals
- A proven framework backed by research
- Optional faith integration for those who desire it
- Practical skills, not just theory
This is why the Prepare and Enrich Program is the most widely used premarital counselling tool in North America, with over four million couples having completed it.
Graceway Wellness is one of the few locations in Ontario offering therapist-facilitated, assessment-based Prepare and Enrich, delivered in person (Burlington, serving Oakville) and virtually anywhere in Ontario.
Deep Dive: Comparing Your Options
Church-Based Programs
What You Get: Biblical teaching, group mentorship
Strengths: Encourages spiritual alignment, often required for church weddings
Limitations: Not personalized and may not address real communication or personality differences
Online Self-Guided Courses
What You Get: Pre-recorded videos, worksheets
Strengths: Flexible, budget-friendly
Limitations: No feedback, no accountability, no guided skill development
Personality Quizzes and Compatibility Tools
What You Get: Insightful conversation starters
Strengths: Great for awareness
Limitations: Not a full counselling model, no follow-up or facilitation
Traditional Premarital Counselling
What You Get: Therapist-led discussions tailored to your presenting concerns
Strengths: Flexible, conversational, beneficial for couples with current challenges
Limitations: May miss unseen issues without a structured assessment
Prepare and Enrich Program at Graceway Wellness
What You Get:
- Comprehensive online assessment
- 15-page custom relationship profile
- Structured counselling sessions focused on your exact dynamics
- Skill-building exercises rooted in 40 years of research
- Optional spiritual and faith integration
Available in-person at our Burlington office for Burlington and Oakville couples, and virtually across Ontario.
Most couples choose this option because it is both scientific and personal. You do not just talk. You grow intentionally through our approach.
How to Choose the Right Option for You
Ask yourselves:
- Do we want personalized guidance, or are we comfortable with generalized advice?
- Do we prefer a faith-integrated approach?
- Do we want a data-driven view of our relationship or an open conversation style?
- Are we looking for convenience, depth, professional support, or spiritual mentorship?
If you want the most comprehensive preparation experience available, Prepare and Enrich is uniquely designed for you.
Why Couples Choose Graceway Wellness for Prepare and Enrich
- In-person or virtual flexibility
- Therapy-level guidance from Registered Psychotherapists
- Integrates Scripture if you desire it, but never imposes it
- Structured program ensures no topic is missed
- Safe, calm environment designed for meaningful connection
You are not just preparing for a wedding. You are building the foundation of your future family, legacy, and life together.
Ready to Choose With Confidence
Whether you are comparing options or already know you want the clarity of Prepare and Enrich, we invite you to begin with a conversation.
In-Person: Burlington office serving Burlington and Oakville
Virtual: Available across Ontario
The team at Graceway Wellness is here to help you choose the right premarital path, not just for your wedding, but for your marriage.
