Growing Edges
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Prepare Enrich
Couples Course Curriculum

Our Couples Class is based on the Prepare-Enrich program.  Prior to the first session, each couple completes an extensive online relationship inventory. The cost for completing the required online inventory is $35 per couple. The personalized results of your inventory provide the basis for discussion with your partner in each session. While the main skeleton of the course is based on Prepare-Enrich, I integrate a lot of information about recent studies on the human brain and how they affect conflict in relationships. This includes recent research on "attachment theory." I also focus on the practice of mindfulness and Marshall Rosenberg's NonViolent Communication as tools to de-escalate conflict.   ​
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​Sessions

 (Identifying Strength & Growth Areas (Session 1 Google Slides)
  • Group Process "Ground Rules" 
  • Exercise: Sharing Strength & Growth Areas
  • ​Love Map Questionnaire for Couples
  • 201 Questions for Trust & Intimacy (pdf) OR click here for Google docs version
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Personality Profiles (Session 2 Google Slides)
  • Exercise: Personality Profiles: Understanding Similarities & Differences 
The SCOPE personality profile (which everyone in the Couples Group completed in the initial PREPARE/ENRICH inventory) is one of many tools that can help you better understand yourself and your partner.  When we understand ourselves in terms that are descriptive, rather than judgmental, we are in a better position to grow as individuals and to recognize the strengths that our differences can bring to our relationships.  In addition to the SCOPE personality profile, you and your partner might wish to explore:
  • The Enneagram (full online inventory, $10 per person)
  • The Meyers-Briggs Personality Type Inventory (full online inventory, $50 per person)
  • 5 Love Languages Personal Profile Online

Communication (Session 3 Google Slides)
  • Handout: Communication - Assertiveness & Active Listening
  • Exercise: Communication-Creating a Wish List
  • Exercise: Communication--Daily Dialogue & Compliments

Personal Stress Profile + Nonviolent Communication (Session 4 Google Slides)
  • Exercise: Stress-Identifying Critical Issues
  • NVC Flow Worksheet
  • ​Card Tools: Feelings & Needs  (OR Feelings Inventory and Needs Inventory)
  • Essay Explaining NVC (by Marshall Rosenberg)
  • Slides: NVC (Nonviolent Communication) Flow Chart
  • Communication Cheat Sheet

Conflict Resolution + 10 Steps (Session 5 Google Slides)

  • Exercise: Ten Steps for Resolving Conflict
  • Exercise: Stress--Balancing Your Priorities​
  • Positive Discipline's Family Meetings
    • Family Meetings by Colorado State University
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Emotional Self-Regulation & Mindfulness (Session 6 Google Slides)
  • Exercise: How to Take a Time-Out
  • ​Exercise: Seeking and Granting Forgiveness

Attachment Theory: Disconnected to Secure Relationships (Session 7 Google Slides)
  • Questionnaire: Accessibility, Responsiveness & Engagement
  • Couple Bubble: Naming Needs/Request

Family Maps- Closeness & Flexibility (Session 8 Google Slides)
  • Exercise : Mapping your Relationship
  • Exercise: Couple & Family Maps--Closeness Exercises
  • Exercise: Couple & Family Maps--Flexibility Exercises

Financial Management (Session 9 Google Slides)
  • ​Handout: The Challenges of Money
  • Exercise: The Meaning of Money
  • Exercise: Importance of Financial Goals
  • See Section 18 Money in "201 Questions" (pdf) - located under Session 1
  • Journal for 201 Questions (pdf, 300 pages)
  • Exercise: Budget Worksheet
  • Book: Free: Spending Your Time and Money on What Matters Most 
    • ​Video about Free

Sexuality, Desire, Intimacy (Session 10 Google Slides)
  • Exercise: The Expression of Intimacy
  • Couple Discussion on Sex & Affection
  • ​Check out one or more of the Gottman Institute Love Apps for iPhone
 ​
Children/Parenting
  • See Section 17 (Children & Parenting) of 201 Questions​
  • Positive Discipline's Family Meetings​
    • Family Meetings by Colorado State University

Final Wrap Up: Spiritual Beliefs & Couple Goals
  • Exercise: Your Spiritual Journey
  • Exercise: Achieving your Goals...Together​​
couples class main page
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​Donnel Miller-Mutia
- chaplain, grief support specialist, relationship educator, artist
- shares arts and skills to aid your growth in the fullness of life. 

Contact Donnel
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  • Home
  • Chaplaincy
    • Healthcare Staff >
      • When to call a chaplain
      • Spiritual Care for Staff
      • Spirituality
      • Grief Resources >
        • Grief & the Pandemic
      • Tending to Our Grief
      • Breathe
      • Resilience Resource
      • Chaplain's Tea
      • Prayers for Staff
      • Silent Prayer
      • Prayer Requests
      • Blessing of Hands
      • Blessing of Workspace
      • Imposition of Ashes
    • Resources for Spiritual Care Groups >
      • Leaders Guide
      • Learning Modules
      • Art Projects >
        • Healing Hands Mandala
      • Mindful Gestures
      • Community Singing >
        • Healing Breath
      • Highs & Lows Ritual
  • Couple Resources
    • Couples Class
    • Mindful Conversation
  • Art & Music
    • Van Gogh Spirituality
  • Blog