FAQs | CoupleTalk

FAQs About CoupleTalk

In a sentence or two, what is CoupleTalk?
CoupleTalk offers a set of powerful communication tools which teach you healthy ways to communicate as a couple about any topic – no matter how sensitive – and help you to improve your everyday communication too. Part 2 teaches skills for resolving conflict, handling strong emotions, creating solutions that last, and forgiveness. CoupleTalk combines insightful video-based instruction, interactive in-class exercises, and a workbook filled with practical advice and helps. Click here for more on CoupleTalk.

 

 

Can just one couple use CoupleTalk? What’s the largest size group that can hold a CoupleTalk class?
CoupleTalk can be used by one couple in the privacy of their home. It can also be used in small group settings, as long as there’s enough chairs and room to spread out a little during practice times. It can also be used in very large classroom or church settings, with dozens or even hundreds of couples, as long as moveable chairs – or plenty of pews – are available so that couples can have a little privacy during practice times.

 

 

I’ve been through a lot of marriage programs. What’s different about CoupleTalk?
There are many wonderful programs that offer excellent instruction on marriage, relationships, communication and conflict resolution. What makes CoupleTalk different is it’s unique “experiential” style: rather than being on the “receiving” end, passively taking in information, participants in CoupleTalk spend a lot of time putting what is taught into practice – actually learning by “doing.” In CoupleTalk, after you watch the video instruction and demonstration of the exercises, you practice them yourselves! Research confirms that practice is essential in changing behaviors, so there is plenty of practice time during each video session. Follow along in your workbook, and keep the video playing while you practice – the countdown clock will keep you on track.

 

 

You say the Christian Version is not a Bible study. Can you explain?
What we mean is that the video teaching does not focus on a particular book of the Bible or set of passages about marriage. Because CoupleTalk is built on learning skills by doing, it emphasizes the practical communication skills and includes Scriptural teaching to reinforce the truth of these skills. They match beautifully! Wherever you’re at in your faith journey, you’ll feel accepted and comfortable in CoupleTalk.

 

 

CoupleTalk is available in two parts. What’s in each part, and why is it set up this way?
The overall CoupleTalk program involves 10 video sessions which have been divided into two parts. One reason for this is that some groups or churches cannot fit all 10 sessions consecutively into their calendar; dividing it into two parts helps you see where to create a break for the holidays, for summer, etc. Returning to Part 2 after a break of this kind is easy; Part 2 begins with a review so that couples are refreshed on what was taught in Part 1. An important thing to note, however, is that a couple must go through Part 1 before attending Part 2; the fundamental communication skills are taught in Part 1. Here are more details on the two parts:

In Part 1: Cracking the Code to a Deeper Connection, you will learn – and use – healthy communication tools to get more connected with your partner, to feel more understood, and to continue growing closer. During the video sessions, you will have conversations with your partner using the practical CoupleTalk communication skills, while talking about fun topics that you choose.

In Part 2: Cracking the Code to Handling Conflict, you’ll build on what you learned in Part 1, to tackle those nagging issues, even the issue of nagging! You will learn – and use – practical tools to manage disagreements, handle strong emotions, and repair your relationship when it’s been damaged. During the video sessions, you will learn to work through a conflict from “start” (approaching your partner) to “finish” (practical solutions that satisfy both). As a result of CoupleTalk, you’ll have better communication, will feel closer to each other, and be able to resolve conflict faster!

 

Is CoupleTalk only for couples in distress? Is it for “regular” couples whose marriages are pretty good?
CoupleTalk is for ALL couples. This program has helped all types of “real” couples – dating, engaged, married with young children, married “forever,” yes, even couples in distress. So, wherever you’re at – we welcome you!

 

 

What is the Universal Version? How is it different from the Christian Version?
The original CoupleTalk program is a blend of research-based communication and conflict resolution skills, with teaching from the Bible about these same topics. Because there are federally-funded organizations that want these skills but must honor the “separation of church and state”, we edited out the Christian faith content and created the Universal Version.

 

 

FAQs About Hosting a CoupleTalk Class

Do I need training to Host a class?
No training is necessary to be a CoupleTalk Host. Your role as host is to invite couples, encourage them, and even participate in the program yourselves. The CoupleTalk Host Resources give you information about what’s in each session and how to handle situations that may arise during or after the sessions. You do not have to be a “marriage expert”. Since all of the teaching is done on video, the only thing you need to host CoupleTalk is a heart for helping couples!

 

How large of a class can I host? How small of a group can use CoupleTalk?
 

CoupleTalk can be used by one couple in the privacy of their home, or by groups of couples of any size. It can be used in small group settings in homes, with about 5-6 couples, as long as there are enough chairs and room to spread out a little during practice times. It can also be used in very large classroom or church settings, with dozens or even hundreds of couples, as long as moveable chairs – or plenty of pews – are available so that couples can have privacy during practice times.

 

We’re just a regular couple and aren't marriage “experts.” Can we be CoupleTalk Hosts?
 

Of course! As a CoupleTalk Host, there is no need to feel the pressure of being seen as a marriage “expert.” The video contains all the teaching, instructions and demonstrations for practice sessions. You’ll turn on the video, participate along with the other couples, and the video will turn off when it’s over.

As a Host, you’ll be a step or two ahead of your couples because the CoupleTalk Host Resources give you a heads up as to what to expect in each session, and answer common questions that couples may be wondering about. With the CoupleTalk Host Resources, you’ll feel equipped as a “marriage supporter” and comfortable in managing the couples in each session.

 

 

 

FAQs About CoupleTalk LIVE!

What is CoupleTalk LIVE!?
CoupleTalk LIVE! brings Don and Alex to your church to teach concepts from CoupleTalk to your couples. Their presentation can be tailored to your particular church or group situation. Having taught live audiences on five continents for over 25 years, they will bring the teaching to life with their personal examples, sense of humor and encouraging message.

Please note that CoupleTalk LIVE! is in interactive experience: this means that couples will be practicing exercises and talking to each other throughout their teaching. As seasoned facilitators of interactive, experiential classes – both large and small – the Fleckys will bring the interactive exercises to “life,” making the experience not only meaningful for couples during the teaching but also after CoupleTalk LIVE! is over.

To contact the Fleckys, click here.

What’s the difference between CoupleTalk LIVE! and the CoupleTalk video program?
The CoupleTalk video program is a self-contained program (videos, workbook, website) which one couple up to hundreds of couples can use to learn healthy communication and conflict resolution skills. For more information on CoupleTalk, click here.

CoupleTalk LIVE! offers Don and Alex as live facilitators of the CoupleTalk program – in shorter date-night experiences, longer weekend retreat settings and formats tailored to particular church needs. For more information on CoupleTalk LIVE!, click here.

What’s the cost to bring Don and Alex to our church for CoupleTalk LIVE!?
Costs vary according to church preferences and scheduling needs, but typically the total charge for both Don & Alex is $1000 per day, plus expenses (travel, lodging, etc.). To contact the Fleckys, click here.