STEPFAMILY COUPLES
Stepfamilies don’t have a family tree — they have a family forest!!
When a couple remarries and enters into "stepfamily-land" there can be much confusion about the couple's relationship. Confusion sets in as the children become the main focus, parenting styles collide, ex-spouses don't vanish off the planet, but in fact they remain a very present force to be reckoned with. A couple doesn't just marry each other, they marry an extended family system with tentacles extending into all parts of their lives.
It is estimated that 30% of all weddings in the US today are stepfamilies. Some follow the death of a spouse or a divorce; still others are formed when a marriage takes place after an out-of-wedlock birth. But no matter what preceded the union, step-families—like all families—have unforeseen pressures and challenges that eventually can give way to tremendous rewards.
Blending families is an emotional experience in every sense of the word. It is a time of transition, of leaving a past and familiarity, and stepping into an unknown future. During such a time, emotions are fragile and nerves are raw. Life seems open-ended with a sense of uncertainty. People are more vulnerable. Such conditions are not a time for restraint when it comes to giving and affirming. Parents need to understand the forces that have come into their children’s lives and respond in a spirit of giving (more than even seems necessary) to the special needs of their children.
Because of these and other challenges associated with blending a family or creating a step family, New Harvest has experienced and trained couples who have walked this journey and want to help strengthen their marriage and family.
You will meet for 8 sessions over a 16 week period with trained couple where you will be challenged to read, discuss, and implement key principles that will assist you in your adjustment or transition.
Contact: If you would like more information please contact NHC through email at Connecting@nhclife.org or by phone at 559.797.7000