Many couples searching for a couples retreat come across the long-running, faith-based program known as Marriage Encounter. They often ask us how our own two-day intensive marriage counseling retreats differ.
Let’s look at what Marriage Encounter offers, how it began, and how our retreats provide a different—yet equally values-based—path toward reconnection.
A Brief History of Marriage Encounter
Marriage Encounter began in 1952, founded by a Catholic priest who wanted to create a safe space for Christian couples to reflect on their faith and relationship together.
These weekends emphasize community, communication, and spirituality. Couples share stories and practice dialogue, often guided by volunteer presenters and clergy.
While it’s an uplifting experience for many, Marriage Encounter weekends are not therapy programs. There are no licensed counselors present, and participants do not receive individualized clinical guidance. Prefer a therapist-led, skills-focused group? Check out our marriage workshops for a guided weekend experience
How Our Couples Retreats Differ
1️⃣ Led by Licensed Therapists
Every retreat is facilitated by trained, credentialed professionals—licensed marriage and family therapists or counselors. This means you receive clinical insight, not just peer support.
2️⃣ Faith-Inclusive, Not Faith-Based
Our retreats welcome couples from all faith backgrounds. We respect traditional family values but do not teach from a specific religious doctrine. Whether you identify as Jewish, Christian, or secular, you’ll feel comfortable and respected.
3️⃣ Private or Small-Group Formats
You can choose a private two-day marriage intensive for complete privacy or attend a small-group Imago-based workshop for a shared, supportive experience.
4️⃣ Practical Tools and Lasting Results
Beyond inspiration, you’ll learn evidence-based skills—intentional dialogue, emotional attunement, and conflict repair—to help you continue progress long after the retreat.
Who Benefits from Therapist-Led Retreats
- Couples who have tried counseling but need deeper progress
- Interfaith or secular couples seeking neutrality
- Partners recovering from betrayal or long-term disconnection
- Busy professionals who prefer an accelerated, structured approach
Where We Host Retreats
We offer intensives and workshops in Maryland, Colorado, New York, California, and other locations, as well as online.
Each site follows the same evidence-based framework—private, confidential, and focused on rebuilding safety and connection.
Key Takeaways
- Marriage Encounter is a respected faith-based enrichment weekend, not therapy.
- Therapist-led marriage intensives provide personalized, clinical support.
- Both honor commitment; one is spiritual, the other therapeutic.
- Our approach blends professional expertise with respect for family values.
FAQ
Q1. Can we attend your retreat if we are religious?
Absolutely. Many religious couples attend because we honor, not replace, their beliefs.
Q2. What if we prefer something faith-based?
Marriage Encounter may be a good fit. If you want clinical support instead of peer sharing, our intensive retreat is ideal.
Q3. Is your retreat private or group?
Both options exist—private two-day marriage intensives or Imago group marriage workshops.
Q4. Where are you located?
We host retreats nationwide and offer virtual options for convenience.
Sources & References
- World-Wide Marriage Encounter. About Marriage Encounter History.
Retrieved from https://wwme.org/ — official history of the Marriage Encounter movement begun by Father Gabriel Calvo in 1952. - American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). Find a Therapist / Ethics / Evidence-Based Practice.
Retrieved from https://www.aamft.org/ — outlines professional standards for licensed marriage and family therapists. - Hendrix, H. & LaKelly Hunt, H. (2019). Getting the Love You Want: A Guide for Couples. New York: Workman Publishing.
— Foundational text introducing Imago Relationship Therapy principles used in many modern couples retreats. - The Gottman Institute. Research-Based Relationship Interventions.
Retrieved from https://www.gottman.com/about/research/ — details evidence-based methods for improving marital communication. - Loebl, R. J. (2020). “Why Marriage Retreats Work Better Than Weekly Counseling.” Relationship Center of South Florida.
— Compares outcomes of intensive couples retreats versus traditional therapy.
