FAQs
What will I learn at Before the Leap (BtL)?
At BtL you will learn and practice the tools scientifically proven to lead to happy, lasting relationships. These skills will help you:
Communicate what you want and need from your partner in a way they can hear.
Grow closer from conflict.
Make sexual desire last over time.
Manage emotions during difficult conversations.
Maintain your independence.
Create moments of connection
Identify the shared values that inform major life decisions like work, finances, or childrearing.
What do we actually do in a workshop?
Workshops are designed to be interactive and engaging - so that you can actually learn what we’re talking about! In a BtL workshop, you should expect to:
Learn the tricks to master common relationship issues, based on scientific research.
Practice skills one-on-one with your partner — with the instructor available to help out if you get stuck.
Voluntary group discussions to ask questions about the skills, brainstorm solutions to common roadblocks, and validate that relationship skills are tricky.
Games, snacks, refreshments, and more!
How much does it cost?
Pricing varies based on the structure and timing of each workshop. Contact us to learn more about upcoming workshop structure, availability and pricing.
While BtL does not accept health insurance directly, we will gladly file out-of-network reimbursement claims on your behalf. This is possible because all workshops are run by a licensed clinical psychologist who can provide a superbill for your insurance.
Where does it take place?
Before the Leap workshops will be held in midtown Manhattan, near Bryant Park.
How many other couples will be in my workshop?
Workshops include 2 - 5 couples in total. We want to make sure that every couple gets the support and attention they need from the instructor.
Is it couples therapy?
No. BtL is for couples excited about what this next phase means for them. Like all big changes, couples may feel nervous and apprehensive, but they are also looking towards the future together. BtL does not involve outlining your conflict patterns, healing old wounds, or deciding whether to stay in the relationship. If that's what you're looking for, couples therapy is a better fit for you.
Is it group therapy?
No. BtL is a fun, interactive class all about you two as a couple - not about the group. Participation in group discussion is completely voluntary, and the discussions focus on the specific skills being taught to increase understanding and identify commonalities with other couples. All skills practice is private between the couple, with professional support available to help if you get stuck.
Is it religious?
No. BtL is a secular, psychological workshop run by a licensed clinical psychologist. That’s why we can submit it for reimbursement from your health insurance! BtL is designed to complement religious premarital preparations so that it can be integrated with any conversations your officiant or faith leader requires, while also being able to stand alone for secular couples.
How does this workshop fit into the wedding planning process?
BTL couples are loving and committed, and want to feel more connected and relaxed during a stressful time as they plan for the future. Studies on premarital counseling shows that pre-commitment workshops are great for marriages. Studies show that couples who have engaged in premarital counseling are 30% more satisfied in their relationships, report lower rates of conflict, and are less likely to get divorced. These benefits held true when researchers followed up with couples six years later.
The workshop teaches communication and healthy conflict skills that are necessary when you two address wedding planning "hot topics" like family boundaries and financial values. It helps you get unstuck and continue the wedding planning process (and your marriage) on the best foot possible. It sets the foundation for a lifetime of happy, loving partnership.