Service Description

Starting Strong is a structured couples counseling program for engaged and newly married couples who want to build a healthy, connected relationship from the very beginning. Rather than waiting until communication breaks down or patterns become painful, this program gives couples the tools, insight, and support to create a strong emotional foundation — the kind that lasts through marriage, parenting, and life stress. Across 10 guided sessions, couples will: * Learn how to handle conflict in ways that build connection instead of distance * Understand each other’s emotional needs and stress responses * Practice communicating openly and safely about hard topics * Strengthen trust, emotional closeness, and intimacy * Develop a shared relationship “playbook” for navigating challenges as a team This program is ideal for couples who feel good about their relationship and want to be intentional about building skills now, rather than fixing issues later. **Program Details** * Includes **10 weekly or bi-weekly sessions** * Sessions must be completed within a **15-week window** to maintain momentum * Grounded in evidence-based relationship science and EFT principles * Led by **Eileen Hess, MSW, SWLC** Starting Strong offers a guided, practical, and supportive way to invest in your relationship — building habits of connection that can support your partnership for years to come.