Q: How can counselling help me?

A: Counselling helps you take time out from your situation and see it from a fresh perspective. Working with a counsellor gives you, or you and your partner, a chance to think about what you can do to change your situation for the better. It can also give you a chance to explore complex or difficult issues in a safe and confidential environment.

Q: Do I have to be referred to Marriage Care?

A: No. Many organisations and GPs do refer people to Marriage Care but you can contact Marriage Care directly if you would like to talk about anything to do with relationships.

Q: Is Marriage Care a religious organisation?

A: Marriage Care is a Christian organisation developed from within the Catholic community of people concerned about marriage and couple relationships. However we accept those who come to us without judgement or discrimination in relation to their relationship status, creed, race, gender or sexual orientation.

Q: Can I come on my own?

A: Yes. Whether you are single, or if you have a partner who doesn’t want to come or you simply want to discuss things alone you are welcome to bring any aspect of your current, past or future relationships to Marriage Care by yourself.

Q: Is Marriage Care relationship counselling confidential?

A: Marriage Care counselling is completely confidential. We will not give your name or any information about you to anyone outside Marriage Care, unless someone’s personal safety is at risk.

Q: How long will I have to wait?

A: We would hope to make an appointment as soon as possible but this depends whether the particular Centre you wish to attend has a waiting list. You may be given the option of travelling to another Centre where a counsellor may be able to see you sooner.

Q: Do Marriage Care counsellors have special training?

A: Marriage Care counsellors have all received special training in relationship counselling. It takes upto to three years to become a fully qualified Marriage Care counsellor.

Q: What is the cost of the counselling service?

A: Marriage Care counsellors work as volunteers. No one is turned away if they cannot afford to pay anything. Each counselling session costs Marriage Care £40 to put on, and you will be asked for a donation. If you are tax payer your donation can be gift aided.

Q: Will you want us to stay together?

A: It is a myth that Marriage Care will "make you stay together". We help people make their own decisions and plan their own future. By listening to clients and being objective the counsellor will help you find your own answers.

Q: How do I find out about Marriage Preparation?

A: You can ring the telephone appointments service or contact the National Office to find out what courses are available in your area.

Q: What happens if I have a complaint about Marriage Care?

A: Marriage Care always welcomes feedback and is keen to improve its services. We have a complaints procedure which aims to make the process straightforward and fair. If you have a complaint you can contact the Centre Manager or National Office.