Closing date: 10 December 2025

Accreditation number: PSB002/048/06/2025 for 9 general ceu’s in Level 1

Course Creator: DR MARILYN C. SAUNDERS

HPCSA No: PS 0104981

OVERVIEW

Recent research suggests that couples today need strong negotiation skills to maintain a happy marriage. Modern marriages are increasingly affected by unmet expectations due to role reversals and difficulty managing conflicts and differences. Additionally, a highly stressful lifestyle along with dysfunctional communication patterns can lead to burnout and depression. While some couples may not want to divorce, they often lack the necessary skills to navigate their challenges, resulting in exhaustion, decreased energy, and a lack of commitment to the relationship, leaving divorce as the only option on the table.

Consequently, with the rising divorce rates, many couples lack role models for successful marriages and often find themselves separating. This course not only equips participants with vital relationship skills but also guides couples through a step-by-step process to establish or restore their marriage from the ground up.

This course is designed as a metaphor of a house to guide couples through the journey of restoration, growth, and hopefully long-term commitment. Each part represents a vital element of the “house” you are building together-your marriage. Thus, Building Your Relationship Step by Step.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
1. Define the relationship, address or negotiate differences, and manage expectations to reduce conflict.
2. Discuss the foundational elements of marriage to strengthen and fortify the relationship.
3. Explore qualities within a marriage that foster closeness and intimacy.
4. Attendees will learn various communication techniques focused on emotions as well as problem-solving.
5. Planning a vision for the family and engaging in financial planning will enhance teamwork and promote longevity in the family dynamic.
6. Participants will assess how negative external influences can impact their marriage and learn to establish healthy boundaries.
7. Gain tools to evaluate and maintain a thriving marriage.