Relationship Check-In
A couples worksheet where each partner rates satisfaction in nine relationship areas, compares ratings and chooses one area to discuss.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Couples assessment
- Approach / concern
- Couples & Relationships
- Technique
- Couples assessment
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Advanced plan
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the Relationship Check-In?
A relationship check-in is a quick way for partners to reflect on satisfaction across key areas and identify topics for discussion. This original, non-validated tool supports conversation rather than formal assessment.
Why it works
Regular attention to relationship areas and structured discussion are features of prevention programs like PREP (Markman et al., 2010) and support relationship maintenance (Gottman & Silver, 2015).
When to use it
- Couples therapy intake
- Periodic relationship reviews
- Premarital counselling
- Couples weekly meetings
How to use it in session
- Each partner rates privately.
- Compare ratings without debating.
- Notice similarities and differences.
- Choose one area to discuss.
- Repeat every few months.
Clinician tips
- Use a validated measure for formal assessment.
- Start with areas where both rate higher to build goodwill.
- Large differences are worth exploring with curiosity.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a validated measure?
No. It’s a conversation tool. Validated relationship satisfaction measures exist for formal use.
What if our ratings are very different?
That’s useful information. Explore each other’s experiences with curiosity rather than defensiveness.
References
Markman, H. J., Stanley, S. M., & Blumberg, S. L. (2010). Fighting for your marriage (3rd ed.). Jossey-Bass.
Gottman, J. M., & Silver, N. (2015). The seven principles for making marriage work (Rev. ed.). Harmony Books.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
