Relationships are tough and require work to make them successful. Whether you’re dating, engaged, married or otherwise; merging two people with different ways of thinking and doing things is always going to have some challenges every now and then. Any two people in a relationship that’s worth being in should do what is necessary to be happy. If you’ve never gone on a couple’s retreat, you and your significant other should consider the experience. Devoting time to each other in a couples setting can be just what the doctor ordered without the white coat and couch. What should a couple expect from a couples retreat?

  • Reignite the romance and intimacy
  • Reduce stress in the relationship
  • Deepen communication
  • Create a stronger bond
  • Learn coping techniques
  • Enjoy the getaway and have fun

Prime candidates for a couples retreat? You might be surprised. Longtime marriage and family therapist Terri Orbuch, a research professor at the Institute for Social Research at the University of Michigan, says “longtime couples who have gotten into a lifestyle groove can benefit big-time. They’re the ones taking care of everything, from bills to kids — everything, that is, except their relationship.”

“When the relationship gets put on the back burner, a couples retreat reminds us about the importance of our partner and relationship,” says Orbuch, in her book, “Five Simple Steps to Take Your Marriage From Good to Great.”

So with so many options, different approaches and environments how do you trust one with your precious relationship? Here’s what you should consider:

  • Is it a faith based retreat? This will tell you whether or not religion will be incorporated.
  • Who is running the retreat and what are their credentials?
  • What types of activities and presentations will take place?
  • Are the other couples like minded and share your relationship needs?
  • Is the retreat a relationship tune up or couples therapy?
  • What is the environment that the retreat will take place in?
  • How do they measure success as it relates to their retreat?

There are clear differences between Couples Retreat and Marriage Boot Camp

Couples Retreats are usually 3 days and take place in very scenic couples atmosphere where the beautiful resort is utilized as a fun getaway in a socially relaxed environment. Games and fun are designed to bring the joy and laughter back into the relationship. Most couples have a strong partnership but just want to take it to higher heights or perhaps are new empty nesters wanting to reconnect and rekindle a new chapter of love.

Marriage Boot Camp are usually 5-7 days and since many of these couples may be facing more serious issues like separation and divorce,  the fun carefree social atmosphere and  palatial resort setting doesn’t meet their needs.  Couple therapy sessions for them are more introspective and designed to understand the person as well as the couple.