Marriage Care
Marriage Care is Son Shine Ministries' focused ministry with individual couples. David Shaffer, Son Shine Ministries' director, is a certified facilitator and trainer of the PREPARE/ENRICH marriage curriculum—today's leading relationship inventory and skill-building program. It is used extensively by professional counselors as well as pastors. While this is often presented by Son Shine Ministries in a group format; Marriage Care provides the opportunity for the assessment and skill-building exercises to be done directly with a couple. This is the most popular request in Marriage Care. David is also trained to use the PREP (Prevention & Relationship Enhancement Program) material as well as the Gottman Method Couples Therapy (level 1).
Ministry with a single couple facilitated by David Shaffer is set up upon request and David's availability. PREPARE/ENRICH and PREP are normally conducted in three or four double-sessions (six to eight sessions total). The number of sessions for general marriage issues understandably varies based on several factors, but all start with an initial consultation to discuss whether what we offer is a good fit for the needs expressed by the couple. Ongoing (or continual) marriage ministry is not offered to individual couples. Sessions are typically 55 minutes, and both husband/fiancé and wife/fiancée are required to be present. The sessions are usually held at the ministry's office near Azle, Texas, and when possible, David's wife, Daniele, participates. For those who live out of town, we would be happy to offer you our retreat center as an affordable option.
Who Should Do This?
The PREPARE/ENRICH and PREP programs are ideal for all couples—whether seriously considering marriage or already married for decades. It is beneficial for struggling couples and for strong couples. The PREPARE/ENRICH assessment provides a snapshot of your relational health, identifying both strength areas and growth areas. The sessions are customized to fit the needs of the relationship and focus on relational skills—all in the context of living "Christianly" according to God's Word and enablement.
David would be happy to discuss Marriage Care with your pastor. Also, suggestions for excellent licensed professional counselors can be made on issues requiring expertise beyond the scope of marriage ministry.
Costs
There is an assessment with PREPARE/ENRICH, which is paid directly to them online; this currently costs $35. The suggested donation for each Marriage Care session is $35/couple and is paid to Son Shine Ministries, helping us carry out our mission of equipping families. Since most meetings include double sessions, this total is normally $70/meeting. Local businesses have provided sponsorships that may go toward or completely cover the costs of your Marriage Care sessions if you cannot afford it.
Interested?
Please contact us for more information about setting up Marriage Care sessions for you and your spouse/fiancé(e).
