Benefit: Clients realize they are not alone in their struggles.

• Evidence: Group settings reduce feelings of isolation and stigma by showing commonality of struggles (Yalom’s group therapy principles, American Psychological Association).
• Why it matters in marriage coaching: Couples see that their challenges are shared by others, reducing shame and defensiveness.

Benefit: People learn from how others solve problems and communicate.

• Evidence: Social learning theory (Bandura, 1977) shows that observing others’ successes increases self-efficacy. Studies confirm that couples in groups benefit from hearing other couples’ strategies (Carroll & Doherty, Marriage and Family Review).
• Why it matters in marriage coaching: When couples hear peers apply biblical and practical principles, they are more likely to adopt and practice them themselves.

Benefit: Group dynamics create a natural sense of accountability.

• Evidence: Research on health coaching and group interventions shows higher adherence rates due to mutual encouragement and peer accountability (Kivlighan & Mullison, Journal of Counseling Psychology).
• Why it matters in marriage coaching: Couples are more motivated to “do the work” between sessions when they know they’ll share progress with the group.

Benefit: Multiple viewpoints expand problem-solving and empathy.

• Evidence: Groups provide richer feedback loops (Corey & Corey, Groups: Process and Practice). In relationship coaching, couples gain insights from hearing how others perceive similar challenges.
• Why it matters in marriage coaching: Couples learn that there are many ways to approach communication and conflict biblically, not just one rigid method.

Benefit: Seeing other marriages improve boosts hope.

• Evidence: Hope theory (Snyder, 2002) highlights the role of seeing others’ progress in strengthening personal belief in change.
• Why it matters in marriage coaching: Couples witnessing real breakthroughs in peers are more likely to believe “God can do the same for us.

Benefit: Group sessions are typically more affordable than one-on-one.

• Evidence: Studies on group coaching/therapy show clients appreciate lower costs without loss of effectiveness (McRoberts, Burlingame, & Hoag, 1998).
• Why it matters in marriage coaching: Makes your program accessible to more couples while still providing high value.

Benefit: Role-play and skill practice in a supportive group setting build confidence.

• Evidence: Evidence from couples education programs (e.g., PREP, Gottman workshops) shows practicing skills with peers improves retention and long-term application.
• Why it matters in marriage coaching: Couples can rehearse biblical communication and conflict-resolution strategies in real time, with encouragement from others.