For couples ready to start a new chapter with intentionality and confidence.

Premarital & Precommitment Therapy in Arlington, VA

In-person and online therapy for residents of Washington D.C., Maryland, Virginia, and most other states.

You’ve got chemistry. You’ve got love. But how do you make it last?

You’re considering getting engaged, planning to get married, or deciding that you’re ready for a different level of commitment to your partner.

Congratulations! This is a big deal.

Premarital Counseling and Pre-commitment Therapy are not just for couples experiencing problems or conflicts; it's a proactive step towards building a strong and resilient relationship.

As your therapist, I’ll help you develop tools for communicating effectively, resolving conflict, expressing wants and needs, and more. I’ll also guide you through discussing some of the uncomfy topics (think, Sex! Finances! Boundaries!) that are good to discuss before taking that next step in your relationship. My goal is to help you both feel aligned and secure entering this new chapter.

I’m Dr. Victoria Bathe, a licensed psychologist with a passion for helping couples thrive.

Based in Arlington, VA, I specialize in relationship therapy and counseling for both couples and individuals.

My style is warm, collaborative, humorous at times, and grounded in evidence-based approaches like:

  • Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy (IBCT)

  • Schema-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Couples

  • Relationship Life Therapy (RLT)

  • The Gottman Method

I offer Premarital Counseling and Pre-commitment Therapy that supports growth, understanding, and love.

I work with couples of all ages, genders, and belief systems. I welcome all, including 2SLGBTQIA+ couples.

WHO THIS IS FOR

Premarital & Pre-commitment Therapy is ideal for:

Engaged couples

Couples considering engagement

Couples considering cohabitation

Couples considering parenthood

Second marriages

Couples considering a new chapter of deeper dedication

Would you like to work together?

Booking starts with an initial consultation. We’ll discuss your relationship and start creating a personalized plan for you!

WHAT WE’LL DO TOGETHER

Premarital therapy topics can include:

Creating a love that can grow over time

Communication

Skills for reducing and preventing conflict

Sex and intimacy

Family

Asking for wants and needs

Finances

Clarifying expectations

Pursuing dreams

Values

What to expect in Premarital Counseling and Pre-commitment Therapy

Most premarital or pre-commitment couples I see attend 6-8 sessions, tailored to their needs and relationship goals.

We’ll begin with an introductory session where you can tell me your relationship story and let me know what important topics you’d like to make sure we get to.

I’ll then get to work on creating your customized treatment plan.

I utilize a semi-structured approach designed to to promote collaborative envisioning as well as foundational communication, connection, and conflict management skills. I think creatively and strategically about the order in which the topics are focused on, with your input.

Most couples chose to have a final session where we review what we’ve learned so you can walk away with practical tools to support your relationship long after therapy ends.

Ready to take the next step in your relationship?

I’d love to support you. Use the buttons below to learn more about me and schedule an initial consultation.