Marriage is a sacred covenant, and for Catholic couples, it’s more than a legal union—it’s a spiritual partnership rooted in faith. Like any relationship, however, Catholic marriages may face challenges that require support, understanding, and healing. That’s where Catholic marriage counseling comes in.
Designed to align with the teachings of the Catholic Church, these counseling services offer faith-based tools to help couples grow closer to each other and to God. In this article, we explore what Catholic marriage counseling involves, where to find it, and how it differs from secular therapy.
What Is Catholic Marriage Counseling?
Catholic marriage counseling is a type of relationship therapy that incorporates both psychological insights and spiritual guidance based on Catholic values. The goal is not only to improve communication and resolve conflicts, but to honor the sacrament of marriage through reconciliation, compassion, and prayer.
Counseling may be provided by:
- Catholic priests trained in pastoral care
- Licensed Catholic therapists
- Lay counselors with backgrounds in theology and marriage ministry
Sessions typically integrate Church teachings, Scripture, and evidence-based relationship techniques.
Common Issues Addressed in Catholic Marriage Counseling
Catholic counselors can support couples facing:
- Communication breakdowns
- Emotional distance or resentment
- Infidelity or breaches of trust
- Parenting disagreements
- Financial stress
- Spiritual disconnection
- Preparation for marriage (Pre-Cana or premarital counseling)
- Natural Family Planning (NFP) and intimacy challenges
The approach encourages forgiveness, mutual understanding, and a deeper alignment with the couple’s shared faith.
Key Principles of Catholic Marriage Counseling
- The Sacrament of Marriage
Counselors recognize marriage as a lifelong, divinely instituted bond. The goal is restoration—not separation—unless the safety or dignity of a spouse is at risk.
- Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Catholic counseling encourages healing through the grace of forgiveness, drawing from the sacrament of Reconciliation as a model.
- Christ-Centered Marriage
Couples are reminded of the role of Christ in their union. Prayer, Scripture, and spiritual disciplines are often incorporated into sessions.
- Open to Life
Counseling may discuss issues related to sexual ethics and openness to children, in line with Church teachings.
Catholic Marriage Counseling vs. Secular Counseling
| Aspect | Catholic Counseling | Secular Counseling |
| Spiritual component | Integral to the process, includes prayer and Scripture | Not typically included |
| Therapist background | Often Catholic, trained in theology and mental health | Varied religious beliefs or secular orientation |
| Marriage view | Indissoluble sacrament | Contractual partnership (divorce may be supported) |
| Premarital focus | Often includes Pre-Cana or FOCCUS preparation | May offer relationship education without sacrament |
Where to Find Catholic Marriage Counseling
- Parish-Based Counseling
Many Catholic parishes offer direct access to counseling through their pastor or a church-affiliated marriage ministry. - Diocesan Family Life Offices
Each Catholic diocese typically has a department for marriage and family life that can refer couples to trusted Catholic therapists or offer marriage enrichment events. - Catholic Counseling Networks
- CatholicTherapists.com – National directory of licensed Catholic counselors
- Pastoral Solutions Institute – Offers virtual Catholic marriage counseling
- Rejoice Counseling Apostolate – Parish-based Catholic counseling across the U.S.
- Catholic Charities
Most Catholic Charities agencies provide affordable counseling, often on a sliding scale, through licensed professionals who integrate faith-based approaches.
Pre-Cana Counseling for Engaged Couples
Catholic marriage preparation, also known as Pre-Cana, is required before a Catholic wedding and may be done through:
- One-on-one counseling with a priest or mentor couple
- Group workshops and retreats
- Online programs approved by the diocese (e.g., CatholicMarriagePrep.com)
Topics covered include communication, conflict resolution, finances, parenting, and the theology of marriage.
Cost and Accessibility
- Parish counseling: Often free or donation-based
- Private Catholic therapists: Typically $75–$150 per session, with some accepting insurance
- Online options: $50–$100 per session, depending on the platform
- Sliding scale fees: Offered by many Catholic Charities locations
Catholic marriage counseling is a powerful resource for couples who want to strengthen their relationship through both psychological insight and spiritual growth. Whether you’re preparing for marriage, struggling with conflict, or simply seeking deeper connection, Catholic counseling invites you to build your relationship on the foundation of faith, commitment, and God’s grace.