General information only. This article is not medical advice and is not a substitute for care from a licensed professional.
Weekly sessions are not the only way to do couples therapy. Some couples choose a retreat or marriage intensive: several days of focused work away from the pressures of home. Here is what to know before booking one.
Retreat or intensive: what's the difference?
A Christian marriage retreat is usually a group event run by a church or ministry, with talks, worship and couple exercises. It can be refreshing but is not therapy. A couples therapy intensive is private: one couple works with a licensed therapist for 10 to 20 hours over two to four days.
Who intensives can help
Intensives are often chosen after an affair, when divorce is on the table, or when weekly sessions have stalled. They can also suit couples who live far from a counselor or whose schedules make weekly appointments hard.
Things to weigh
Intensives cost more up front, often several thousand dollars, and are rarely covered by insurance. They can be emotionally draining, so plan rest afterwards. Most good programs include follow-up sessions, because lasting change needs practice at home.
Questions to ask a provider
Who leads the sessions, and are they licensed? Which approach do they use, such as the Gottman Method or emotionally focused therapy? How is faith included? What happens if one partner wants to stop? Is there support after the intensive ends?
When an intensive isn't the right fit
If there is violence, threats or fear in your relationship, couples therapy of any kind may not be safe. Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential advice.