Pre & Post Marriage coaching
SYMBIS assessment:
SYMBIS is an online tool that allows engaged or newly married couples (or even couples who have been married for a while!) to log on individually and take an assessment. The assessment has many questions about personality, upbringing, attitudes towards money, sex, and much, much more. I
t then creates a print out with the results. I receive the results and set up 2 sessions to go over any strengths, weaknesses, or caution flags that the assessment tool identifies. Together we talk about areas of individual growth or improvement that each person needs to work on. We also discuss what they need to work within the confines of the relationship.
Why is SYMBIS important?
I’ve loved the idea of SYMBIS since I first heard about it. I really enjoy doing Premarital Counseling with couples, and appreciate that SYMBIS covers so many diverse topics. In a world where the divorce rate is over 50% (and 67% for second marriages), I believe it’s extremely important to invest in your marriage before it starts. SYMBIS is also very beneficial for second marriages and has an additional assessment built-in if this happens to be your situation.
What does SYMBIS cover?
SYMBIS initially covers individual similarities and differences. It explores your individual mindsets as it pertains to marriage. Some people have a very Resolute mindset, meaning they marry for life and do not believe in divorce. Others may have more of a Romantic mindset, meaning they believe in soulmates and happily ever after’s.
Others may have a more Rational mindset, which means they approach marriage logically and believe it is hard work. There are also a few other mindsets that an individual could possibly have. Your mindset towards marriage is very important because it sets the tone for expectations moving forward.
SYMBIS also explores each individual’s emotional well-being. It’s important to address any baggage that each person may bring into the marriage. The SYMBIS tool has the ability to detect childhood issues, mental health issues, and other issues between the couple. It allows space for discussion about how these issues will impact the marriage long-term.
SYMBIS will assess for any conflict within family of origin or in-law situations. It allows each person to process and discuss the importance of social support. It identifies any future conflict that may happen when you blend two people from two different backgrounds.
One of my favorite parts about SYMBIS is the financial assessment. The tool is able to identify each individual’s attitude towards money and finance. One of the big questions is, are you a saver or a spender? Typically in a marriage, there is one of each. This can obviously create some conflict. The SYMBIS assessment goes over debt, security, and allows the couple to discuss their financial dreams and goals.