While walking through the testing center, something caught Brittney Wakefield's eye. A small flier on a random bulletin board advertised exactly what she had been looking for-a premarital therapy group.

After a 10-year acquaintance, Brittney and her now husband Craig, were engaged, and as a marriage, family and human development major, Brittney understood how beneficial premarital counseling could be.

The BYU Comprehensive Clinic, located near the Creamery on 9th, offers couples an opportunity to discuss important marital issues in a relaxed group setting.

Chad Olson, a graduate student in the marriage and family therapy program, was a group leader for the 8-week session the Wakefield's participated in last fall.

"It's getting people there the first time that's the hard part," Olsen said. "Once they're there, they love it."

Therapy groups, which meet for about an hour and a half once a week, cover seven topics: finances, roles, sex, communication, problem solving, expectations and family of origin.

Olson said the groups are very different from marriage and family prep classes. Having things run by a professor is very different than being directed by a group leader.

"Questions come to us and, rather than saying 'this is how it is,' we kick it back to the group," Olson said.

Also unlike the class, the group is not for individuals. Groups are made up of 3-6 couples at various stages in their relationships.

"I think in our group there was one married couple, one that was just dating and two others that were engaged," Brittney said.

Craig said the insight the class offered about conflict resolution was the most helpful part.

"We talked a lot about...approaching issues as a couple vs. a problem instead of one person vs. the other," Craig said.

For the couple, group discussions often continued after sessions ended.

"We started talking about issues that might not come up in normal conversations," Brittney said.

Group leaders also offer couples optional observation sessions, which provide them with feedback about their communication styles.

According to Olson, the safe, comfortable atmosphere quickly alleviates awkwardness and reservation.

"It's not group therapy like society would portray it," Olson said. "It's fun and light-hearted...Seriously, it's just chill."

Students interested in the group can call the Comprehensive Clinic, do a brief intake interview over the phone and then be placed in a group. Groups generally run once every semester, but multiple groups are organized depending on interest levels.

Participation is free of charge if at least one partner is a BYU student. For non- students, there is a one-time $15 fee.

"A lot of guys think its lame," Craig said. "I thought it was going to be dumb, but now I'm definitely glad I did it."

Copyright Brigham Young University 30 Apr 2008