Counseling for couples

TWENTYNINE PALMS, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES

08.06.2010

Courtesy Story

Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center

By Lance Cpl. William Jackson

While divorce rates are high for military members, it doesn’t mean couples aren’t trying to work things out. From counseling classes to self-help books, the Combat Center has used the Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program to fine tune marriages for years.

PREP teaches couples to handle many marriage problems like finance, substance abuse, infidelity and communication, said Navy Lt. David T. Nelson Jr., the Headquarters Battalion chaplain and native of Piedmont, S.C.

The class is suggested for couples going through hardships, or for couples who just want more information to avoid future problems.

“It’s not always negative,” said Sandra Little, personal financial specialist. “We give advice for budgeting, interest rates, and understanding credit and how to use it wisely.”

“The financial part of PREP can be anywhere from 15 minutes to one hour. We use surveys and questionnaires to help couples understand where they currently stand financially,” said Little. “PREP provides a relaxed environment for couples where they can possibly use the information as a starting point to the endless questions pertaining to the world of finance.”

“The two-day program doesn’t fix the problem, but it gives you a tool box of skills to use in enhancing your marriage,” Nelson said. The couples listen to lectures, watch videos, sit through financial classes and practice the exercises being taught.

The classes are generally small. On average, the class accommodates around 10 couples. While the group sessions are the main experience for couples, third party counseling is available for more serious problems.

This is a great free program, Nelson said. “It’s open base-wide for active duty military and their spouses.”

For more information or to register for the September class, visit the Protestant Chapel at building 1541, or call 830-6464. Free childcare is available for couples who register by Sept. 13.

• Date Taken: 08.06.2010
• Date Posted: 08.06.2010 13:34
• Story ID: 54070
• Location: TWENTYNINE PALMS, CALIFORNIA, US