Expectations Before Commitment
A premarital counselling worksheet comparing partners' expectations across eight key topics, with a plan for the biggest difference.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Premarital counselling
- Approach / concern
- Couples & Relationships
- Technique
- Premarital counselling
- 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 Expectations Before Commitment?
Premarital education helps couples discuss expectations and develop communication skills, with benefits for later relationship quality.
Why it works
Relationship education programs such as PREP teach couples to discuss expectations and handle conflict (Markman et al., 2010). Gottman and Silver (2015) emphasize understanding each other’s values and dreams.
When to use it
- Premarital counselling
- Moving in together
- Blended families
- Interfaith or intercultural couples
How to use it in session
- Complete separately.
- Compare answers.
- Mark topics to discuss.
- Address the biggest difference.
- Revisit periodically.
Clinician tips
- Normalize differences.
- Include cultural and family expectations.
- Avoid pressure to agree on everything.
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
Do we need to agree on everything?
No. Understanding differences and how you’ll handle them matters more.
When is the best time for premarital counselling?
Several months before a commitment, so you have time to talk things through.
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.
