PM Counseling

46
STANDARDS AND CAPACITY

BUILDING GROUP, DSWD
STANDARDS BUREAU, DSWD
Published 2020
Foreword .....................................................................................................................ii
Introduction..................................................................................................................iv
Preparation Notes for Counselor/s.............................................................................vii
Session Proper.............................................................................................................viii
Opening Activity ..........................................................................................................1

Session 1: You and your Future Spouse .................................................................2
Session 2: Understanding Individual Differences....................................................6
Session 3: Importance of Communication in Marriage............................................16
Session 4: Lifetime Commitment..............................................................................21
Closing and Summary..................................................................................................23

Network Services.........................................................................................................24
Evaluation ....................................................................................................................24
References...................................................................................................................25
Annexes
Annex 1: Family Code Infographics .........................................................................26
Annex 2: Marriage Expectation Inventory (MEI) Form..............................................27
Annex 3: Family Reflection........................................................................................31
Annex 4: Sample Script ............................................................................................32
Annex 5: List of Counseling Services Available in the LGU (Template) …................33
Annex 6: Evaluation Sheet .......................................................................................34
Annex 7: Basic Counseling Microskills .....................................................................36
Annex 8: Memorandum Circular No. 1 series of 2019…………….......................................42
(Guidelines in the Accreditation of Pre-Marriage Counselor)
Acknowledgement......................................................................................................71
PART II OF THE PMOC MANUAL ON THE PRE-MARRIAGE COUNSELING (PMC)

The enactment of Republic Act (RA) No. 7160 otherwise known as the Local
Government Code of 1991 has transferred the power and authority of some national
government agencies to perform specific functions and responsibilities to the Local
Government Units (LGUs). The DSWD, as one of those national agencies, has shifted
its role from direct implementers of programs and services to provision of technical
assistance and resource augmentation to its local social welfare and development
offices.
The Department in collaboration with the Commission on Population and

Development (POPCOM), Department of Health (DOH), Department of the Interior
and Local Government (DILG), and Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has issued
Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 1 series of 2018 approved last September 10,
2018 on the implementation of Pre-Marriage Orientation and Counseling (PMOC)
program at the local level. The said JMC clarified the difference between the
responsible parenthood and family planning orientation session and the
pre-marriage counseling session. As such, the DSWD was tasked to lead the
enhancement of the Part II of the PMOC manual on the Pre-Marriage Counseling
(PMC) session given that the Department regulates the accreditation of the
Pre-Marriage Counselors.
Consequently, as committed, the manual on pre-marriage counseling was

enhanced to update the sessions that would provide better opportunities for would-
be-married couple/s to dialogue, discuss, and compromise on matters that would
likely affect their relationship as married couples. This initiated the creation of a
Technical Working Group (TWG) within the Department to spearhead the
enhancement of the manual through a series of activities which included a
writeshop, a number of consultation meetings, and pre-testing of the manual.
This manual lays out activities, procedures, and discussion points that would help
would-be-married couple/s in the process of identifying potential conflicts
emanating from their differences that would equip them with practical tips in
nurturing their similarities and resolving probable conflicts.
It is hoped that this manual would enable the Local Social Welfare and
Development Officers (LSWDOs) and other practitioners to improve the conduct of
PMC session to would-be-married couples resulting to deeper understanding of the
realities of marriage.
FLORITA R, VILLAR, CESO I

Undersecretary
Standards and Capacity Building Group

PART
PRE-MARRIAGE ORIENTATION AND COUNSELING MANUAL

TIME ALLOTMENT: Minimum of 3 Hours
Introduction
The second part of this manual introduces the processes involved in counseling
would-be-married couple/s particularly those that are aged 18-25 years old as
required under Article 16 of the Executive Order (EO) No. 209 or the “Family Code of
the Philippines of 1987”.
This counseling session aims to provide opportunities to look into the preparedness
of the of the “would-be-married couple/s” which shall be referred to as
“participant/s” in this manual, and to help deepen their understanding on the
realities of marriage based on their accomplished Marriage Expectation Inventory
(MEI) Form. The counselor is expected to provide the needed intervention by letting
the participants undergo the process of identifying potential conflicts emanating
from their differences and equipping them with practical tips in nurturing their
similarities and resolving probable conflicts.
This manual was developed and designed to serve as the counselor’s guide in
conducting counseling for participants.
Accordingly, to direct the course of discussions and processing, below are the
objectives of this session:
OBJECTIVES OF THE SESSION
PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVE
At the end of the Counseling, the participants are able to discover the differences
and similarities on their marriage expectations, as well as the factors that influence
their perspectives. These may include their manner of coping and
communicating to resolve identified conflicts, and other challenges that may affect
their future married life.

ENABLING OBJECTIVES
Specifically, this session shall enable participants to:
1. Describe one’s self as a person and his/her future spouse;
2. Identify similarities and differences based on the accomplished MEI Form

and the factors affecting their individual perception which would eventually
affect their future married life;
3. Identify tips and ways to manage conflict through meaningful conversations

and engaging participant/s in a dialogue.
In view of the aforementioned purposes, this manual is divided into three major
sessions which focus on (1) appreciating the self; (2) understanding individual
differences; and (3) valuing the importance of communication in resolving those
differences.
To provide a summary of the entire session, below are brief descriptions of the
content of this manual.
OPENING ACTIVITY
A brief introduction and leveling off among the counselor and participants with a
brief explanation or discussion on the relevance of the counseling session for the
participant/s.
Session 1: You and Your Future Spouse
Share important aspect of one’s self-awareness and introspection that will

underscore self-awareness, acceptance and appreciation of their own uniqueness
and of their future partners.
Session 2: Understanding Individual Differences
Focus on identifying the differences of the participants and the factors affecting
those differences.

Session 3: Importance of Communication in Marriage
Focus on initiating meaningful conversation and dialogue that will be valuable in

resolving potential conflicts and differences.
Session 4: Lifetime Commitment
Encourage would-be-married couple/s to express their commitment to their

future spouse.
CLOSING AND SUMMARY
Synthesize the lessons learned and evaluate the conduct of the session
provided.

OPENING ACTIVITY
The counselor shall make a brief introduction and overview of the session to be
conducted by emphasizing the importance and the need to undergo the
counseling session.
INPUT
This session is a requirement under Article 16 of the Family Code of the
Philippines (1987) prior to securing the Marriage License.
The Counseling session is a deeper level from the orientation which aims to
provide assistance and guidance to contracting parties towards an informed
decision about their forthcoming married life.
KEY MESSAGE
Marriage between contracting parties is entered into in accordance with the law
for the establishment of conjugal and family life1 ; thus, this Counseling session
is required by the law and is important to prepare would-be-married couple/s
for married life and its challenges.
COUNSELOR’S NOTE
For the introduction, please take note of some items

enumerated in the preparation notes for counselor/s.
1
Family Code of the Philippines, (Republic of the Philippines: 1987).

SESSION 1: YOU AND YOUR FUTURE SPOUSE
Identify how one’s positive and negative characteristics, weaknesses and strengths
operate in daily life and affects marital relationships. This session will underscore
self-awareness, acceptance and appreciation of uniqueness of your future spouse,
as well as the importance of knowing their partner’s level of self-esteem.
TIME ALLOTMENT 50 minutes
METHODOLOGY Individual Exercise/Dyads
Pen and paper/ PMC Notebook; water

MATERIALS NEEDED
and tissue paper
PROCEDURE
The counselor shall:
1. Give the participants needed time to answer the following questions on a

piece of paper: (only if no pens/pencils and papers are available can you let
them use their cellphone to list down their answers)
a. What do you like most about yourself?

b. What do you like most about your partner?
c. What do you dislike about yourself?
d. What do you dislike about your partner?
e. What are your strengths?
f. What are your weaknesses?
2. Allow the participants at least ten (10) minutes to answer the questions.
3. After the activity, allot 10 minutes for participants to share their answers with

4. After the sharing between couples, the counselor may ask them to share any
insight or realization on the activity.
5. After which, the counselor can use the questions below for self-reflection.
ANALYSIS (PERSONAL REFLECTION GUIDE QUESTIONS)
1. Based on your answers, what were your realizations about yourself and your
partner?
2. Do you think your answers to the questions given will affect your marriage in
the future?
3. How do you intend to work out the thing/things that you dislike about
yourself and your partner?
ABSTRACTION AND KEY LEARNING MESSAGE/S
1. How do you define self-esteem?
Self-confidence and self-esteem are two (2) different things. Self-esteem,

which is internal, refers to a person’s feelings about the self. Self-confidence
has to do with a person’s interactions with the external world. 2 It is
confidence in oneself and one’s power and abilities.
Self-esteem is how a person regards one’s self. Most often than not, how we
relate and establish relationships with other people is based on our
self-perception. When one’s self-esteem is inferior from others,
characteristics such as negativity/pessimism, low regard of one’s capacity and
submissiveness become evident. Whereas, when one’s self-esteem is
superior, characteristics such as being always right, imposing, and
aggressiveness are manifested. Being inferior and superior are both unhealthy
behaviors which could ruin a marriage if not understood by one another
completely (You may refer to your cue cards).
Self-esteem can influence your relationship satisfaction just as much as it

affects your partner’s. When you either feel good or bad about yourself, it can
affect the way you act with your partner and the way you feel would have an
impact on both of you. 3
2
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-confidence
3
Marriage Counseling Service Manual (Philippines: Department of Social Welfare and Development, 2002)

2. What do you think will happen if a person does not have healthy self-love in
the context of marriage?
If a person does not have a healthy self-love, which includes self-respect,

confidence and belief in oneself and relating intimately, it will result in the
following: Either the couple will be at war in order to maintain their identity,
because any difference or disagreement is taken as a threat or a personal
affront, signaling a lack of love; or one person will lose his or her identity by
holding back and giving in, being absorbed by the other; or there can very
well be a combination of both results (You may refer to your cue cards).4
An important emotion for feeling positive about oneself is taking pride and
feeling good about your accomplishments and by knowing your self-worth.
On the other hand, those who feel a bit insecure and low about oneself is
probably because you have regrets or have experienced failure.
Thus, regardless if you are feeling positive or low about yourself right now,
your promise of self-worth and pride must be greater than your fear of failure
and regret. Your positive thoughts should be greater than your negative
thoughts because how you view yourself will eventually affect your married
life and partner.
3. Does it help knowing each other’s strengths and weaknesses?

Knowing oneself is just as important as knowing your spouse. One’s
self-perception will bring about a lot on your relationship. Hence, it is important
to have an idea of how you are going to be on your marriage and how you will
deal with it.
One’s weaknesses and strengths as an individual might become one of the
strains in married life. Hence, it is important for an individual to know one’s
personal weaknesses and strengths which he or she will bring in to married
life. Being aware of these things about oneself, the person will have a better
chance at resolving issues and conflicts about relationships and marriage.
(You may refer to your cue cards)5
APPLICATION
The counselor shall instruct the participants to:
Write a letter to your partner on how you intend to make use of what you have
learned from this session in your married life and relationship.
4 Dionisio, Maribel and Allan, Thinking of Marriage: Love, Relationship, and Intimacy (Philippines: Salsasiana
BOOKS , Don Bosco Press, Inc., 2011)
5
Marriage Counseling Service Manual (Philippines: Department of Social Welfare and Development,

COUNSELOR’S NOTE
 Be mindful of the time but prioritize the participants’ needs.

 Re-assure the participants that there are no wrong answers, and
encourage them to answer honestly.
 You may opt to use a PMC session notebook as part of the PMC
kit (if possible and available) that may be given to the would-
be-married couples which they could use whenever they are to
write their answers in certain activities in this manual. After the
PMC, the couple could keep their notebooks with them.
 If the participant is unable to write, encourage the participant to

his/her express thoughts.
SUGGESTED TRANSITION MESSAGE:

Appreciating oneself and your partner’s individuality is an important part of your
journey of further discovering your differences and similarities which will affect
your married life. Thus, as we move on to the next session, we will try to
understand how those differences are most likely influenced by internal and
external factors.

SESSION
UNDERSTANDING INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES
Account the number of differences and similarities based on the Marriage

Expectation Inventory (MEI) Form and at the same time identify factors which have
influenced their differences in expectations.
Self-Assessment, Games, Dyads and

METHODOLOGY
Interactive/Group Discussion
Accomplished Marriage Expectation

Inventory Form, pens and paper,
MATERIALS NEEDED
flipchart/easel boards, pentel pens or meta
cards and masking tapes,
ACTIVITY 1: Accounting of MEI
PROCESS
The Counselor shall:
1. Distribute to the participants their individual MEI forms which was
accomplished prior to the session.
2. In dyads, instruct the would-be-married couple/s to count the number of

similarities and differences based on their responses on the MEI Form.
3. Allow participants at least 10 minutes for the activity.
4. Afterwards, ask the participant/s to stand based on the number of

differences noted. You will do a count off until all the participant/s have
stood up.
5. Ask the participant/s to face their co-participant/s while saying this phrase
“Congratulations! This preparatory session is for you!”

6. Convey to the participants that knowing those expectations are important as
it has a significant effect on their marriage life. Therefore, those expectations
should be clear between would-be-married couple/s.
7. Proceed to the next activity: Fast Talk
ACTIVITY 2: Fast Talk
PROCESS
1. Give each participant a pair of meta cards with this written: Babae and Lalaki.
2. Instruct the participants to raise one (1) card (Babae/Lalaki) that they believe
would best perform/fit the roles that would be enumerated by the
counselor as fast as possible.
List of roles:
a. Child rearing
b. Budget/manage finances
c. Go to the market/buy groceries
d. Do the laundry
e. Cook
f. Housekeep/clean the house
g. Go to work/earn money
h. Discipline the children
i. Pay utility bills
j. Entertain guests/friends/family
k. Attend PTA meetings in school
l. Wash the dishes
m. Keep savings
Note: The counselor can add to the list other roles.
3. Ask the participants to take note and account those in which they have
different answers.
4. After the activity, ask each pair to account the number of their different
answers.
5. Afterwards, ask the participants this question: What do you think are the
reasons behind your differences?

6. Note or write their answers on a board or in a meta card. Encourage the
participant/s to answer and cite as many reasons they could think of.
7. Ensure that their answers are visible to them.
8. Proceed to discuss and explain the factors affecting and influencing those
differences in expectations.
COUNSELOR’S NOTE
In congratulating the participants, emphasize that having

recognized their differences makes them aware of it. Affirm that
awareness of these differences is the first step to doing something
about them. Explain that these differences will not measure the kind
of relationship that they have and will have in the future but rather this
session will help them understand the foundation of those differences.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITY : Family Reflection
PROCESS
1. Distribute the activity sheet. Each participant should have a copy. (Annex 3 on
Family Reflection).
2. Instruct the participants to accomplish the exercise individually. Give them at

least two (2) minutes.
3. After accomplishing the exercise, ask the participants to share their answers
to their future spouse for five (5) minutes.
4. Ask for insights and realizations from the participants based on their sharing.
5. Proceed to the discussion of the inputs based on the following concepts.

The counselor shall wrap-up the session by asking the following questions:
1. What do you think of your responses on your Marriage Expectation Inventory

(MEI) Form?
2. Why is it important for you to know some relevant factors which influenced
your differences?
3. How do you think those factors that were discussed have influenced your
responses on your MEIF?
4. What struck you most about this session?
5. What were your insights, realizations, and learning from this session?
SEVERAL FACTORS INFLUENCING MARITAL/MARRIAGE EXPECTATIONS
1. Biological Differences
A man and woman are obviously physically different and the most evident
difference is their reproductive system.
But in addition to that, a man and a woman’s biological make-up are majorly
affected by their HORMONES.
As defined, Hormones are the body’s chemical messengers and are part of the
endocrine system. The endocrine system regulates our heart rate, metabolism- (i.e.
how the body gets energy from the foods we eat) –appetite, mood, sexual function,
reproduction, growth and development, sleep cycles, and more. In other words,
hormones affect our body’s functions, from growth, sexual development and mood
to how well we sleep, how we manage stress and how our body breaks down
food.6 So, when your partner is eating too much, you might think your
partner is just too stressed-out, but in reality, the hormones have something to do
with it one way or another.
6
https://www.hormone.org/hormones-and-health/hormones

The hormones present in our body affect the physiological activities in both sexes
as well as the physical attributes of the male and female human body. So if your
partner is not in the mood, that does not mean there is a loss of affection, it could
be just the hormones. However, these biological differences do not conclude the
main and sole difference between a man and a woman which influences ones
perception and behaviour. Rather this is just an attempt to explain the possible
reasons behind those differences.
You’ve got to remember that men are men and women are women. And although
there are a lot of similarities, there are some real differences”. – Helen Fisher
2. Gender Culture and Role Expectations
Individuals bring to the marriage their own expectations with regard to how
various needs should be met and how various roles should be performed.
Given the distinct biological differences between the two sexes, gender culture
came into perspective. Gender culture is a set of behaviours or practices
associated with femininity and masculinity. Each culture has its own expectations
of the roles of men and women.
At this juncture, the counselor may refer back to the answers of the participants on
Activity 2 (Fast Talk) to provide concrete examples.
There are many cultural and social expectations about appropriate behavior for
male and females. Presumptively, to fulfill marriage expectations, each family
member is expected to play his/her roles which then give perspectives to marital
role. Marital roles are expectations of husbands and wives in a particular society at
any given time. 7
Usually, these roles are cultural creations rather than biological imperatives. Roles
provide the facility for the smooth running of society by a division of labor for men
and women.
Cultural variations and the purposes of spouses may bring about changes in
marital roles. In modern society, there are no definite patterns of behavior or roles
for men and women. There is a wide disparity in role conceptions. This changing
nature of gender roles creates confusion on marital role and expectations. Hence, it
could be one of the reasons for the differences in your responses in the Marriage
Expectation Inventory Form (MEIF).
7
Chacko, Teresa, Introduction to Family Life Education Vol.2, (New Delhi-110020, Indira Gandhi National
Open University: Gita Offset Printers, 2010)

The role expectations vary with different cultures. Culture conditions the
personality of an individual. Marital roles are determined by the culture in which
one grew up. The couple coming from two different cultures will behave
differently in a given situation. They will be having different expectations and their
goals in marriage will be different. There may be few common interests. Each
brings from his/her culture quite often different values, attitudes, customs and
style of living.
With that said, there are no general role patterns. Each couple has to work out a
pattern of their own. In a nutshell, here are some factors that may influence marital
roles and expectations. 8
Peer Group
The peer group is oriented towards new attitudes and expectations for both
sexes. They create new role expectations. These are usually in direct contrast to
customary roles.
Culture
Men have more freedom of action while women are expected to behave
according to norms dictated by the society. Education has given her social and
economic quality, but still she is restrained to traditional roles by our culture.
Family
Customary roles are learnt largely from the family. It is through the attitudes,
expectations and habits formed in the family that a boy or girl gets basic training
in role expectations for him or her as well as for the opposite sex. 9
This concept provides a subtle approach on discussing gender culture as a

benchmark in explaining role expectations along marriage which is important to
help would-be-married couple/s understand the differences on their marriage
expectations.
The value being underscored is not on the gender roles or expected marital
roles but rather, realizing the essence of clear role expectations between would-
be-married couple/s in their future married life. And while differences are being
underscored and identified as part of culture, this should not become a basis for
any abuse and disempowerment but rather build a foundation of respect
towards each other’s cultural differences.
8 Chacko, Teresa, Introduction to Family Life Education Vol.2, (New Delhi-110020, Indira Gandhi National
9 Dionisio, Maribel and Allan, Thinking of Marriage: Love, Relationship, and Intimacy (Philippines:
Salesasiana BOOKS , Don Bosco Press, Inc., 2011)

Although culture and society has a great amount of influence in one’s behavior and
perceptions, still, it is not enough to understand one’s values and characteristics
which bring about the differences.
3. Family Influences
Understanding one’s family of origin will provide insights on how values and
customs were handed down from generation to generation, which will then give
the participants an idea on how their partner was actually raised.9
In order for participants to have a grasp and understanding of the concept, the
counselor may either opt to administer the optional activity of this session using the
Family Reflection exercise or refer to the answers provided by the participants in
Activity 2 (Fast Talk) and identify which perspectives were influenced by their
families based on the enumerated roles.
Family of origin refers to the significant caretakers and siblings that a person grows
up with, or the first social group a person belongs to, which is often a person's
biological family or an adoptive family. Our early experiences have a major
influence on how we see ourselves, others and the world and how we cope and
function in our daily lives.10
How do you think one’s individual family affects him/her?
Family dynamics determine our self-esteem and self-confidence. Family values

shape our character. Family experiences influence our concepts of how marriage
should be structured, how children should be raised and how we should view work,
relationships, recreation, education, money, politics, and religion. We all look at our
families and decide either to repeat the pattern if our experience was
basically positive, or try to create an opposite situation, if our experience was
basically negative. We are profoundly affected by the attitudes and actions of the
family we grew up in.
Why do you think it is important to understand one’s Family of Origin?
Understanding one’s Family of Origin provides some insights into how one’s family
works, i.e.– family patterns of behavior that may have been passed down from
generations that are still evident in our families today. They range from how we
celebrate occasions and holidays, how we practice or do not practice our faith or
religion, how we resolve conflict or avoid it and many other things. We discover
how we fit into the scheme of things in the context of our family tree.
10 ibid.

Further, we need to understand that the marriage of two persons means marriage
of six persons:
1. The groom
2. Everything his mother has taught him;
3. Everything his father has taught him;
4. The bride;
5. Everything her mother has taught her; and
6. Everything her father has taught her;
This includes patterns of behavior, history, expectations, attitudes, beliefs and core
values among others. Therefore, the new married couple means the joining of two
families.12
Overall, this session attempted to explain some factors which influence one’s
expectations. Hence, this will give participants ideas on further understanding one’s
values and traits which are influenced by various internal and external factors.
ADDITIONAL INPUTS
1. The differences in the responses of the MEIF are natural. Those differences
will not ruin a relationship but rather a stepping stone in making the
relationship stronger. Knowing it is just but a start of an unending journey
towards discovering each other.
2. It should be clear to the participants that the differences in their responses

are mainly caused by a lot of factors that has influenced their perspectives as
individuals, perspectives which they would bring into their marriage.
Regardless, as unique individuals, having differences is natural since no
person is alike.
3. The factors that were presented and discussed are just among the major
explanations as to the possible causes on the differences of the responses on
the MEIF; thus instrumental to understanding how those differences came to
be.
4. As would-be-married couple/s, it is important to note that those differences

can be a key to developing new patterns/dynamics which will work for them.
5. If the reasons for those differences in expectations are not clear and are not
understood by each other, possible conflicts may arise due to unrealistic,
unclear and vague expectations.
12 ibid.

6. Understanding each other’s differences is not the end, but rather a start to
make initial steps of adjustment. As would-be-married couple/s, it is
important for you to manage these differences rather than letting all these
manage your married life.
7. Understanding those differences will help you adjust in your married life and
at the same time manage future conflicts.
APPLICATION
The counselor shall ask the participants to reflect on the following questions:
1. How do you intend to resolve those differences?

2. How do you intend to make sure that the two most important things to you
(those you marked with a star) be realized in marriage?
3. How will I make use of my capabilities to perform my role as a wife/husband
and as a future parent?
4. Which among the various role expectations would be applicable in your
future married life and how do you intend to perform these roles?
After the time given for self-reflection, let the participants keep their answers to
themselves.
COUNSELOR’S NOTE
 Couples should take note where these answers are clearly

different, meaning a major difference in human-moral-spiritual
values. A sizable number of these major differences indicate that
they will need more personal follow-up with the counselor for
final assessment regarding their realistic compatibility to
incompatibility for marriage.
 The facilitator should be careful in processing the participant’s
answers which may borderline to gender and development
issues.
 Be conscious with the time in facilitating the activities.

Knowing the differences on your responses gives you an idea on the things that
may cause rift or misunderstandings in your marriage. Hence, knowing the things
that will help you understand each other will give you ideas on things that you
need to work out. But, how will you work it out? On the next activity, we will give
you tips on how to dialogue or communicate with your partner on those areas that
you need to work out or agree on.

SESSION 3:
IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNICATION IN MARRIAGE
Demonstrate basic dialogue skills as a method to initiate meaningful conversation

with your partner highlighting the value and importance of communication in
resolving differences.
METHODOLOGY Role Playing/Audio Visual Presentation (AVP)
MATERIALS NEEDED Sample Script: As a prelude, the counselor will

initiate a role playing to be played by colleagues
or co-facilitators who shall provide tips on
having a dialogue.
PROCEDURE
The counselor and/or co-facilitators shall:
1. Play the part of the husband-to-be and the wife-to-be.
2. Demonstrate the given scenario based on the sample script. You can choose
to be innovative and tweak some parts of the script as long as the purpose
of this activity is conveyed clearly.
3. Ask the participant/s to observe the activity and possibly take down notes
based on their observations.
4. The role playing will be done in three (3) minutes.
5. After the role playing, discuss to the participant/s their observation before
proceeding to the actual dialogue between would-be-married-couple/s.

6. Highlight the following during the discussion of their observations:
a. The role play is just an example; you can discuss your concerns based on
your talking styles, but remember to be very careful in the use of words.
b. While talking about your differences and conflicts, pay attention to the
good things your partner does rather than paying too much attention on
his/her faults.
c. Control your temper.
d. Learn to compromise and negotiate, meaning, learn to agree on things in

a win-win situation.
e. Learn how to be flexible in order to settle differences.
f. Lay down all your cards on the table. As much as possible, provide
needed information and consequences before reaching a decision.
g. Be willing to listen.
h. Be willing to accommodate.
i. Always remember that the person you are talking with is the person you
love and intend to live with forever.
After discussing the participant/s’ observations, the counselor will proceed to the
discussion of the mechanics for the next activity. However, before starting with the
activity, it is important to ensure that privacy and confidentiality will be observed.
ACTIVITY 2: Couple’s Dialogue
PROCESS
1. Instruct the participant/s to identify their top three (3) significant
expectations and/or differences which they would want to talk about.
Further, the counselor may add circumstances or realistic examples for
discussion that is relevant and timely with their present/current set up (i.e if
they have kid/s; they are living-in, etc)
2. Instruct them to find a comfortable place within the venue to talk about it.
3. Allow the participant/s thirty (30) minutes to dialogue.
After the activity, proceed with the analysis and processing of the activity.

After the sharing/activity, the counselor shall ask the participants to share their
insights on the session using the questions listed below as guide.
a. What were your insights/realizations/learning on the activity?
b. What were the challenges/difficulties you encountered in doing the
activity?
c. How did this activity help you?
Conflict, tension, and disappointment occur when expectations are unmet, leading
to dissatisfaction in marriage (Grafton, 1977).
The other areas bringing about conflicts in marriage are struggle for domination,
money management, sexual incompatibilities, etc. However, the most difficult
problem is communication. The failure in communication occurs at a deeper level
of sharing feelings, expectations, intentions and personal needs. 13
Communication with our partner is an important means to grow in our love for one
another. As we talk and dialogue about the many areas of personal, home, and
work life together and make decisions and plans, our sense of commitment and
care for each other grows and deepens. Hence, in this session, would-be-married
couple/s will be guided on how to communicate and dialogue with each other.
1. What is the possible result for unclear and unexpressed expectations?

Unexpressed, unstated and unclear expectations could lead to conflict and
other feelings of dissatisfaction. It is important that expectations are made
explicit so they will not become “destructive and frustrated
demands” (Brorby, 1981). 14
2. What are the identified Do’s and Don’ts in compromising and/or resolving
conflicts?
13 Ehnis, Daniel K, “A study of the Relationship Between Marital Expectations and Satisfaction for First
Married and Remarried Couples on Factors Extracted from Two Marital Adjustment Scales,
(Dissertations, 1986) 2297.
14
Ibid.

In resolving conflict, there might be no hard and fast rule, it depends on how
applicable it is in knowing your respective partners. Nonetheless we would
like to share the following:
In Conflict Resolution, it is suggested that the couple: (You may refer to your
cue cards)
1. Agree to resolve the conflict.
2. Take turns talking and do not interrupt. - The biggest communication
problem is we do not listen to understand. We listen to reply.
3. Avoid Name Calling.
4. Be truthful about what is bothering you, and state it clearly.
5. Listen to the other person. Be sure you understand his/her issue and how
he/she understands your issue.
6. Be willing to compromise.
ADDITIONAL INPUTS
1. No two persons are alike. There are differences in attitudes, behaviors and
beliefs; hence, disagreements and fights are inevitable in any romantic
relationship. These disagreements can be big or small, ranging from what to
eat for lunch, or failing to complete a chore to arguments about finances,
career, deciding on children’s religious upbringing and the list could go on. 15
2. Fighting/quarreling with your partner isn’t a sign that there is a real trouble in
your relationship. In fact, when handled properly, fighting can improve your
relationship. If you never talk about the things that bother you, you will never
solve them. Hence, by dealing or managing those conflicts constructively,
you can gain better understanding of your partner and arrive at a solution that
works both for you. Compromise it is.
3. Dealing with your differences and arriving at a compromise surely is not easy.
But the key to resolving those differences is by knowing, accepting and
adjusting to those differences, hence, the best method to solve the
differences in a reasonable way is by negotiating with each other. In other
words, you have to find a common ground which will work for both of you,
that way both of you can have a satisfying marriage life.16
15 https://www.psychologytoday.com/vs/blog/close.encounters/201704/10 -tips-solving-relationship-
conflicts
16 Chacko, Teresa, Introduction to Family Life Education Vol.2, (New Delhi-110020: Indira Gandhi National

4. This activity is not really all about conflict resolution, what is being
emphasized in this activity is the value of communication, the importance of
talking and discussing things you do not agree on or are significant to you
because the biggest communication problem is we do not listen to
understand, we listen to reply. This is just a practice to listen, talk, and
express your thoughts which will create long lasting connection with your
partner. As the saying goes, practice makes things permanent.
APPLICATION
The counselor shall ask the participants to reflect on the question below .
“How are you going to use what you have learned in this activity in resolving
potential issues/conflicts/ differences in your future married life?”
The counselor may close the session with this quotation:
“To sustain love, we have to learn how to negotiate differences of all kinds, and to
speak to each other in ways that allows us to be heard, that allows us to be
received. “–Dee Watts-Jones (Printed copies; refer to the cue cards)
IMPORTANT:
The counselor may prompt couples that if they have difficulty in settling issues,
they could seek help and consult them or other counselors for another
appointment and help.
COUNSELOR’S NOTE
The counselor may play a soft music to lighten the mood of

the participants/environment
The things you have discovered from your partner are necessary in settling your
differences and communicating what is acceptable in your marriage. This session
will not yet solve the problems in your marriage, but is an overview of what lies
ahead.

SESSION LIFETIME COMMITMENT
Synthesize the over-all counseling session experience by expressing commitments
METHODOLOGY Self-Reflection Activity, Commitment Setting
Bond papers, pens/pencils, and evaluation

MATERIALS NEEDED
and feedback survey sheet.
ACTIVITY 1: Commitment Setting
PROCESS
1. Give each participant a piece of bond paper.
2. Instruct the participant/s to fold the paper into half. Instruct them to write
their top five (5) marriage commitment on the left side of the paper, and their
top five (5) marital needs on the other half (on the right). Give the participants
at least five (5) minutes to do this.
3. Ask the participant/s to share their answers to their partner for five (5)
minutes.
4. Afterwards, ask the participants to recite or read aloud two (2) of their
commitments to their partner for the whole group to hear.

After the sharing, the counselor shall ask the participants to share their insights on
the session using the questions listed below as guide:
1. How do you feel while writing your commitments?
2. What help would you need from your partner in order to fulfill your
commitments?
Expectations are a critical variable in marital relationships as they significantly affect

the satisfaction of the couple and the success of the marriage. In a research study,
it stated that “Expectations are not only what you want from your partner, they are
also what you are willing to give”. 17
In counseling, the goal is to assist would-be-married couple/s to work through a

mutually contracted agreement. First, by learning and becoming aware of one’s
needs and expectations from a relationship and next is to report what they want
from each other and what they are willing to give or compromise.
APPLICATION
The counselor shall ask the participants to reflect on the question below.
How are you going to apply what you have learned in your future married life?
(Allow participant/s to reflect on this question for awhile).
17 Ehnis, Daniel K, “A study of the Relationship Between Marital Expectations and Satisfaction for First
Married and Remarried Couples on Factors Extracted from Two Marital Adjustment Scales” (1986).
Dissertations. 2297

CLOSING AND SUMMARY
1. The PMC as we have discussed at the very start of this session is required for
the issuance of your marriage license. But the value of this session, hopefully,
does not end when you receive your respective certificates. What you
learned today; what you discovered about each other, let all these guide your
relationship and your future marriage.
2. Knowledge of one’s needs, wants, desires, plans, values, aspirations are

necessary. Self-esteem is one of the most important foundations of marriage.
A loving, close relationship takes effort and there’s a strain that naturally
emanates from differences among men and women.
Fulfilling one’s aspirations is as important as supporting your spouse fulfill

his/her aspirations. As a couple, let him/her feel that you are happy with his/
her achievements.
Family of origin strongly affects values and behavior patterns which vary in
every individual. Hence, being aware of those differences will help the
couple settle and communicate what they desire and deem acceptable for
their own family.
3. The experience you had in PMC is yours and your decision to get married is
definitely also yours to make. The topics we discussed and the activities that
were designed for this PMC, are meant to make you reflect and think about
your decision.
KEY MESSAGE
Marriage is a lifetime journey. This Pre-Marriage Counseling is only the beginning

as you prepare yourself to enter married life. Surely, you will encounter several
challenges, and you must get help from the right people along your journey. We
encourage you to be connected with a small group of couples/counselors who
could provide you the positive support you will need.

NETWORK SERVICES
The counselor may end the session and share the directory of existing services
available for their further counseling needs. This should be prepared ahead of the
PMC session schedule.
EVALUATION
The counselor will distribute evaluation forms and ask the participants to rate the
activity and express their comments using the evaluation form.

Dionisio, Maribel and Allan, Thinking of Marriage: Love, Relationship, and Intimacy
Philippines: Salesasiana BOOKS , Don Bosco Press, Inc. 2011.
Clinebell, Howard J. And Clinebell, Charlotte H. The Intimate Marriage. New York:
Harper and Row Publisher, 1970.
Department of Social Welfare and Development. Marriage Counseling Service
Manual. Philippines 2002.
Kellermann, K. & Cole, T. (1994). Classifying compliance gaining messages:

Taxonomic disorder and strategic confusion. Communication Theory, 1, 3-60
(Self –Processing)
Republic of the Philippines, Family Code of the Philippines, 1987
Chacko, Teresa, Introduction to Family Life Education Vol.2, (2010). Indira Gandhi
National Open University: Gita Offset Printers, New Delhi-110020
Ehnis, Daniel K, “A study of the Relationship Between Marital Expectations and
Satisfaction for First Married and Remarried Couples on Factors Extracted from Two
Marital Adjustment Scales” (1986). Dissertations. 2297
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/dissertations/2297
http://asiaweddingnetwork.com/en/magazine/expert-advice/142-7-types-of-
fights-newly-engaged-couples-have-and-how-to-avoid-them
https://careguru.in/article/wellness/your-impact-on-your-children---s-mental-
health/757
https://kylebenson.net/love-tank-theory/
https://www.bonobology.com/8-fights-every-couple-will-some-point relationship/
https://www.crosswalk.com/family/marriage/5-signs-your-marriage-is-headed-
for-trouble.html
https://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/psychpedia/self-confidence
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-confidence
http://www.strongbonds.jss.org.au/workers/professional/origin.html
https://www.woroni.com.au/words/we-used-to-be-kidnapped-by-marriage/
www.scienceofpeople .com
https://www.hormone.org/hormones-and-health/hormones
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/close-encounters/201704/10-tips-
solving-relationship-conflicts

Family Code Infographics
DID YOU KNOW??
The Family Code of the Philippines states that…
Art. 16. In the cases where parental consent or parental advice is needed, the party
or parties concerned shall, in addition to the requirements of the preceding articles,
attach a certificate issued by a priest, imam or minister authorized to sol-
emnize marriage under Article 7 of this Code or a marriage counselor duly
accredited by the proper government agency to the effect that the contracting par-
ties have undergone marriage counseling. Failure to attach said certificates of mar-
riage counseling shall suspend the issuance of the marriage license for a period of
three months from the completion of the publication of the application. Issuance of
the marriage license within the prohibited period shall subject the issuing
officer to administrative sanctions but shall not affect the validity of the marriage.
Source: Executive Order No. 209, Family Code of the Philippines
Source: Philippine Statistics Authority, Civil Registration Service, Vital Statistics Division

MEI Form
Instruction. This Marriage Expectations Inventory Form is designed to help you

assess your expectations about marriage so you can engage each other in a
dialogue to make your relationship stronger. Kindly check or provide your answer that
corresponds to your level of agreement of disagreement.
MEI ON MARRIAGE AND RELATIONSHIPS
Statement Agree Neutral Disagree Reason/s

1. I will allow giving financial support to my
in-laws/relatives.
2. I will allow receiving financial support from
my parents/in-laws/relatives.
3. I am comfortable if my partner checks out
my personal stuff such as mobile phone,
wallet, social media account, etc.
4. I feel loved when:
 My partner gives me compliments or
praises
 We do things together
 I receive gifts, flowers, small things, etc.
 My partner willingly provides a helping
hand
 My partner shows physical affection (ex.
holds my hand, embraces/cuddles/
kisses me)
5. When we talk, I expect my partner to be
sensitive/cautious to:
 Tone of voice
 Words spoken
 Gestures, body language, eye to eye
contact
 Listening with undivided attention
6. I know well my spouse strengths and
weaknesses.
7. If we will have conflicts, as husband and
wife, we will solve it by:
 Talking it out
 Writing letters
 Spiritual methods

MEI ON RESPONSIBLE PARENTHOOD

 Silent treatment
 Third party mediation (in-laws, god
parents, friends, counselors, etc.)
1. After getting married, we will live
independently from our parents/
relatives.
2. I will allow my spouse to work for a
living.
3. I believe that it is the husband who
should make the major decisions
on financial matters.
4. Only the wife is in charge of the
household chores.
5. If we cannot have children, I will
consider alternative parental care
(adoption, foster care).
6. Disciplining, nurturing and rearing
our children is a shared
responsibility by both parents.
7. I believe in physical punishment in
disciplining children.
8. I believe that the children should
observe their father’s religion.
9. If I will have a child with special
needs, I will:
 Send my child to school
 Put up for adoption/send to
DSWD or similar facility
 Confine my child at home
10. For me, having a child is:
 A gift from God
 For continuity of lineage
 Additional income earner
 Provider in our old age
 Means for a stronger relationship

MEI ON PLANNING THE FAMILY

1. I prefer to have less than three children.
2. If we have problems in having children,
I will submit myself to fertility tests/
work- out.
3. I believe that the number and spacing
of children is a shared decision of
husband and wife.
4. I believe that sex in marriage is:
 a duty
 my right
 an expression of love
 for procreation purposes only
(pagkakaroon ng anak)
5. I believe that the wife may initiate sex.
6. Husband’s consent is necessary for the
wife to use family planning methods.
7. I will use modern family planning
methods to limit and space childbirth.
MEI ON MATERNAL, NEONATAL, CHILD HEALTH AND NUTRITION

1. I believe that ensuring safe and
healthy pregnancy is a responsibility
of the wife.
2. I believe that child care and nutrition
are responsibility of the wife.
3. I will go to a birthing facility (clinics/
lying-in or hospitals) for the delivery
of my baby.
4. I want my newborn baby to be
breastfed after delivery.
5. I will subject my baby to newborn
screening.
6. For me, the husband’s roles to ensure
safe pregnancy and delivery are:

 Accompany the wife during
pre-natal check-up
 Formulate a birth plan with the

wife.
 Ensure that either husband or
wife is enrolled with PhilHealth.
 Know the nearest Philhealth-
accredited facility in your place.
 Prepare the important things the
wife needs before, during and
after pregnancy including that
of the baby.
 Together with the wife, start
saving for hospital fees and
other financial considerations
that may occur.
 Know the emergency signs of
pregnancy, and secure contact
numbers of service provider.
7. I believe in keeping intimacy
during pregnancy through:
 Going on a date once a week or
more
 Going out with Friends
 Having a sexual intercourse

Family Reflection
Dionisio, Maribel and Allan, Thinking of Marriage: Love, Relationship, and Intimacy Philippines:

Sample Script
Husband to be: Para sa akin, okay lang magbigay ng pera sa magulang ko ng

monthly kasi ganun din yung tatay ko dati sa mga magulang nya.
Wife to be: Magbibigay ka eh meron naman silang monthly pension. Ok lang

magbigay ngayon kasi wala pa tayong anak. Pero pag nagka-anak na tayo, hindi na
dapat.
Husband to be: Panganay kasi ako, nuon pa man, nagbibigay na ako sa kanila. Para
sa akin, mas responsable ang mga anak na nagbibigay ng pera sa mga magulang
kahit may asawa na.
Wife to be: Tingin ko, walang masama na magbigay sa magulang kahit may asawa
ka na subalit, ngayong mag-aasawa na tayo, ano na ba ng dapat nating
pagkasunduan na makakabuti para sa ating bubuuing pamilya? Sa kinalakihan ko
kasi, yung mga kapatid kong nag-asawa na, hindi na sila nagbibigay ng monthly
financial help sa mga parents namin. Kung may emergency na lang or may
okasyon.
Husband to be: Mahalaga kasi iyon sa akin. Pwede bang kahit every two months at
magkano?
Wife to be: Sige. Pero pag nagka-anak na tayo, tignan nating yung financial status
kung kaya pa ang every two months. Tingin ko dapat nating i-consider kung ano
ang makakabuti para sa pamilyang bubuuin natin.
Husband to be: Ok. Thank you sa pang-unawa mo. I love you!

List of Counseling Services Available in the LGU (Template)
Directory of Counseling Services Available in the LGU
For individual, marital and family consultations/sessions, you may contact any of
the following:
Network Contact Details Services
LSWDO
Local Health Offices
Barangay
NGOs
CSOs
POs
Parish
Churches

Session Evaluation Sheet
Name (optional): __________________________________ Date: ________________
Thank you for participating! It will be of great help if you can write down your
feedback from today’s session. Please mark your rating with a ( ).
Coverage/ Excellent Very Satisfactory Fairly Poor

Rating Satisfactory Satisfactory
Effectiveness
of the
speakers:
Mr. /Ms.
Adequacy of
the materials
used:
Handouts
Presentation
materials
Schedule: Day
and time
What I learned in today’s session is/are:
What I like best in this session is:

What I least like in this session is:
My suggestions for future sessions are:

Basic Counseling Microskills
18
The term “microskills” refers to specific competencies for communicating
effectively with others. Professional education for social workers, mental health
practitioners, and other helping professionals often includes microskill training to
provide developing professionals with the essential building blocks for counseling,
therapy, advocacy, mediation, and other methods of intervention. The earliest
social work textbooks on microskills referred to them as interviewing skills.
More recent textbooks have recognized that interpersonal communication skills, or
competencies, are useful not only for interviewing individuals but also for social
work with individuals, families, groups, communities, and other social systems.
19
Microskills are the basic foundational skills involved in effective helping
relationships. They are the foundational tools on which the success of interventions
with clients may depend. They help create the necessary conditions from which
positive change can take place.
Below are essential counseling microskills that may aid the counselor/s in
providing counseling sessions:
a. Rapport
 Development of rapport starts with the initial contact and continues
throughout the counseling process.
 Effective rapport is crucial for individuals seeking counseling, as this may be

the first encounter with a professional counselor and this interaction may
either encourage or discourage the client from seeking counseling in the
future or following up for subsequent counseling sessions.
 These skills are presented as a hierarchy that is organized within a systematic

framework. At the bottom of the hierarchy are the basic attending skills such
as patterns of eye contact, body language, and tone of voice while a bit
farther up of the skills hierarchy is the basic listening sequence, which
includes questioning, paraphrasing, summarizing, and reflection of feelings.
18 https://www.oxfordbibliographies.com
19
https://www.sulross.edu/sites/default/files/sites/default/files/users/docs/education/counseling-microskills_4.pdf

b. Attending Skills
 Good communication involves more than just verbal content-much

communication takes place non-verbally.
 Clients ranked nonverbal gestures and presentation and body language as

the most important alliance building factors.
 Non-verbal attending behaviors communicate a counselor’s interest, warmth

and understanding to the client, and include such behaviors as eye contact,
body position, and tone of voice.
b. 1 Eye Contact
 Maintaining good eye contact is how a professional counselor conveys

interest, confidence, and involvement in the client’s story.
 There should be natural breaks in eye contact; eye contact should be

more of an “ebb and flow” as you collect your thoughts and listen to your
client’s story.
 It is essential to be sensitive to differences in how eye contact is

expressed across cultures.
b.2 Body Position

 Your body position should convey to the client your interest and
involvement.
 Face the client and adopt an open, relaxed, and attentive body posture,
as this will assist in putting your client at ease.
 Do not cross arms and legs.
 Do not sit behind a desk or other barrier.
 Slightly lean in the upper body toward the client.
 Let your clients decide the physical distance between you and them by
offering to let them arrange the chairs at an individual comfort level, but
make sure to set up your own personal space boundaries too.
b.3 Vocal Tone
 Emotions are frequently conveyed via tone of voice. The pitch, pacing,
and volume can all have an effect on how a client responds emotionally
to a professional counselor.

 Your voice can do much to help create a soothing and anxiety-regulating
atmosphere for the client. 20
b. 4 Verbal Underlining
 Giving increased vocal emphasis to certain words or short phrases—helps
convey a sense of empathic understanding.
c. The Basic Listening Sequence

 Represents a set of interrelated skills used to achieve three overarching
goals:
 To obtain an overall summary and understanding of the client’s

presenting issue;
 To identify the key facts of the client’s situation; and
 To identify the core emotions and feelings the client is experiencing.
 The skills involved in the basic listening skill sequence are: open and closed
questions, paraphrasing, reflection of feelings and summarizing.
c. 1 Questioning
 Is a primary skill that allows professional counselors to gather important
and specific information about clients.
 Questions allow us to make an accurate assessment of the client’s issues

and guide and focus our clients so we can make the most effective use of
the counseling session, but if used inappropriately, questioning can
impede communication and block client disclosure.
 Open Questions
 Open questions usually elicit fuller and more meaningful responses

by encouraging the client to talk at greater length.
 Open questions typically begin with what, how, could, would, or why,
and are useful to help begin an interview, to help elaborate the
client’s story, and to help bring out specific details.
 Be careful when using “why” questions and questions that are

leading in nature. Questions that begin with “why” often:
20 https://www.sulross.edu/sites/default/files/sites/default/files/users/docs/education/counseling-microskills_4.pdf

 Cause the client to intellectualize and can lead to a discussion of
reasons21
 Cause a client to begin to rationalize or intellectualize their

problems, when what we really want them to do is to explore the
deeper meaning and feelings behind their issues22
 Cause the client to become defensive and to feel “put on the spot”
 Leading Questions
 Leading questions often contain a hidden agenda because the

answer or expectation is already imbedded within the question.
 Closed Questions
 Closed questions can be used when professional counselors need

to obtain very specific concrete information and get all the facts
straight.
 Closed questions typically elicit either a “yes/no” type of response

or provide specific factual information.
 The use of too many closed questions can cause the client to shut
down and become passive because in essence you are training the
client to simply sit back and wait for the next question to answer.
„Begin with open questions (i.e., general), and as you gather
information and hear the client’s story, move to more closed
questions (i.e., specific) to obtain the specific details important for the
assessment and subsequent intervention plan.
C.2 Reflecting Skills

 The reflecting skills represent a set of interventions used to help
stimulate clients’ exploration of their thoughts and feelings related to
the presenting problems.
 These skills will also stimulate a deeper understanding of the problem

so that the client can examine the issues more objectively.
 Reflecting skills include: paraphrasing, reflecting feelings, and

summarizing.
21
https://www.sulross.edu/sites/default/files/sites/default/files/users/docs/education/counseling-microskills_4.pdf
22 Ibid.

 Paraphrase
 A paraphrase is how we feed back to the client the essence of what

has just been spoken in our own words. By paraphrasing, one
reflects the content and thoughts of the client’s message.
 A counselor is mirroring back to the client, in a nonjudgmental way,

an accurate understanding of the client’s communication and the
implied meaning of that communication
 It is important that the paraphrased information is accurate by

checking in with the client. „This “checking in” also allows for the
building of a collaborative relationship with your clients and conveys
your interest and care in accurately understanding their message.
 Reflecting Feelings
 By reflecting feelings a professional counselor can help the client

become aware of the emotions experienced in relation to the issue
at hand.
 Reflecting feelings can promote the development of accurate
empathy and help to create a safe environment for the client.
 To reflect feelings one must be able to recognize and put words to
those feeling states observed in the client.
To aid in identifying a client’s feelings:

 Pay attention to the affective component of the client’s
communication;
 Pay attention to the client’s behavior (e.g., posture, tone of voice,
facial expression); and
 Use a broad range of words to correctly identify the client’s
emotions. Silently name the client’s feeling(s) to yourself.
In reflecting feelings to your client:23
 Use an appropriate introductory phrase (e.g., sounds like…., you

feel…., it seems…etc);
 Add a feeling word or emotional label to the stem;
 Add a context or brief paraphrase to anchor or broaden the
reflection;

 Pay attention to the tense (present tense reflections can often be
more powerful);
 Do not repeat the client’s exact words;
 Reflect mixed emotions; and
 Check out the accuracy of the reflection of feeling with the client.24
 Summarizing
 By summarizing, a professional counselor can begin to put together
the key themes, feelings, and issues the client has presented.
 By distilling the key issues and themes and reflecting this back to the
client, counselors can begin to help clients make sense of what may
have originally seemed to be an overwhelming and confusing
experience.
 A summary is not only to be used at the end of the session or begin
a new session by re-capping the previous session, but can be used
periodically throughout the session, helping to keep a focus and
putting together the pertinent issues at hand for the client.
A summary may be appropriate when:
 Your client is rambling, confused, or overly lengthy in comments;
 When your client presents a number of unrelated ideas;
 To provide direction to the interview;
 To help move from one phase of the interview to the next;
 To end the interview ; and
 To provide an opening to the interview by summing up the prior
interview.
Three common types of summaries:
 Focusing summaries are often used at the beginning of the
session to pull together prior information the client has given and
to provide a focus to the session.
 Signal summaries are used to “signal” to the client that you have
captured the essence of their topic and that the session can move
on to the next area of concern
 Planning summaries help to provide closure and are used to

recap the progress, plans, and any recommendations and
agreements made.

Amended Guidelines in the Accreditation of Pre–Marriage
Counselors

We would like to thank the following individuals, regional offices and LGUs for their
support and contribution in the development of the PMC Manual: Part II
Ms. Ma. Velen A. Joven, POPCOM

Ms. Sarah B. Jalilul, POPCOM
Ms. Sigrid Jane Caluya, DSWD NCR
Ms. Remalyn Rosales, DSWD FO IV-A
Mr. Robert Gatmaitan, DSWD FO III
Mr. Dioniso Dalusong, DSWD FO IV-A
Ms. Natalia C. Cause, DSWD CO
Ms. Nolibelyn P. Macabagdal, DSWD CO
Ms. Marivic Uy Vergara, DSWD CO
Ms. Catherine D. Espedido, DSWD CO
Ms. Sofia Aurora J. Nungay, DSWD CO
Ms. Anna Maria Alexa G. Ledesma, DSWD CO
Ms. Cynthia V. Ilano, DSWD CO
Ms. Jesusa Cabilao, DSWD CO
Dir. Marites M. Maristela, DSWD CO
Dir. Ernestina Z. Solloso, DSWD NPMO
Resource Speakers:
Ms. Maribel Sison-Dionisio
Dr. Allan R. Dionisio

Undersecretary Florita R. Villar
Standards and Capacity Building Group
Dir. Marites M. Maristela

Standards Bureau
Ms. Cynthia V. Ilano

Standards Bureau
Ms. Marivic U. Vergara

Policy Development and Planning Bureau
Ms. Anna Maria Alexa G. Ledesma

Standards Bureau
Ms. Nolibelyn P. Macabagdal

Social Technology Bureau
Ms. Catherine D. Espedido

Program Management Bureau
Ms. Efleda Joyce S. Consulta

Social Welfare Institutional Development Bureau
Ms. Jasmine E. Nacabuan

Ms. Sofia Aurora Jimenez– Nungay

Standards Bureau

Local Government Unit of Burauen, Leyte
Local Government Unit of Reina Mercedes, Isabela
Local Government Unit of Iloilo City
Local Government Unit of Buenavista, Butuan
DSWD Field Office II
DSWD Field Office VIII
DSWD Field Office VI
DSWD Field Office CARAGA
Ms. Lilibeth S. Jacinto, POPCOM CO
Ms. Marites Cipriano, POPCOM CO
Ms. Rolagenia G. Reyes, POPCOM CO
Ms. Sarah B. Jalilul, POPCOM CO
Ms. Ma. Linsie Arteche, POPCOM VIII
Mr. Roilo Vincent Laguna, POPCOM VI
Mr. Jonathan Dioteles, POPCOM VI
Ms. Anna Maria Alexa G. Ledesma, DSWD CO
Ms. Jasmine E. Nacabuan, DSWD CO
Ms. Catherine D. Espedido, DSWD CO
Ms. Maria Aquilisa Mancile-Ongleo, DSWD CO
Ms. Sofia Aurora J. Nungay, DSWD CO
Focal Writers and Researchers

Ms. Sofia Aurora Jimenez- Nungay
Standards Bureau
Ms. Jasmine E. Nacabuan

Special thanks to the Commission on Population and Development

Executive Management for their unwavering support to this initiative.

Undersecretary Florita R. Villar
Undersecretary for Standards and Capacity Building Group
Dir. Marites M. Maristela

Director, DSWD Field Office III
Former Standards Bureau Director
Ms. Cynthia V. Ilano

Social Welfare Officer V
Officer In Charge of Standards Bureau
Ms. Anna Maria Alexa G. Ledesma

Social Welfare Officer IV
Standards Bureau
Ms. Sofia Aurora Jimenez-Nungay

Social Welfare Officer III
Standards Bureau
Mr. Julian Tampos

Administrative Support
Ms. Jean Veriel Bulasa

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46

STANDARDS AND CAPACITY

STANDARDS BUREAU, DSWD

Opening Activity ..........................................................................................................1

Closing and Summary..................................................................................................23

PART II OF THE PMOC MANUAL ON THE PRE-MARRIAGE COUNSELING (PMC)

The Department in collaboration with the Commission on Population and

Consequently, as committed, the manual on pre-marriage counseling was

FLORITA R, VILLAR, CESO I

PART II OF THE PMOC MANUAL ON THE PRE-MARRIAGE COUNSELING (PMC)

PRE-MARRIAGE ORIENTATION AND COUNSELING MANUAL

OBJECTIVES OF THE SESSION

PART II OF THE PMOC MANUAL ON THE PRE-MARRIAGE COUNSELING (PMC)

Specifically, this session shall enable participants to:

1. Describe one’s self as a person and his/her future spouse;

2. Identify similarities and differences based on the accomplished MEI Form

3. Identify tips and ways to manage conflict through meaningful conversations

Session 1: You and Your Future Spouse

Share important aspect of one’s self-awareness and introspection that will

Session 2: Understanding Individual Differences

PART II OF THE PMOC MANUAL ON THE PRE-MARRIAGE COUNSELING (PMC)

Focus on initiating meaningful conversation and dialogue that will be valuable in

Session 4: Lifetime Commitment

Encourage would-be-married couple/s to express their commitment to their

CLOSING AND SUMMARY

PART II OF THE PMOC MANUAL ON THE PRE-MARRIAGE COUNSELING (PMC)

For the introduction, please take note of some items

PART II OF THE PMOC MANUAL ON THE PRE-MARRIAGE COUNSELING (PMC)

OBJECTIVES OF THE SESSION

TIME ALLOTMENT 50 minutes

METHODOLOGY Individual Exercise/Dyads

Pen and paper/ PMC Notebook; water

The counselor shall:

1. Give the participants needed time to answer the following questions on a

a. What do you like most about yourself?

PART II OF THE PMOC MANUAL ON THE PRE-MARRIAGE COUNSELING (PMC)

ANALYSIS (PERSONAL REFLECTION GUIDE QUESTIONS)

ABSTRACTION AND KEY LEARNING MESSAGE/S

1. How do you define self-esteem?

Self-confidence and self-esteem are two (2) different things. Self-esteem,

Self-esteem can influence your relationship satisfaction just as much as it

PART II OF THE PMOC MANUAL ON THE PRE-MARRIAGE COUNSELING (PMC)

If a person does not have a healthy self-love, which includes self-respect,

3. Does it help knowing each other’s strengths and weaknesses?

The counselor shall instruct the participants to:

PART II OF THE PMOC MANUAL ON THE PRE-MARRIAGE COUNSELING (PMC)

 Be mindful of the time but prioritize the participants’ needs.

 If the participant is unable to write, encourage the participant to

SUGGESTED TRANSITION MESSAGE:

PART II OF THE PMOC MANUAL ON THE PRE-MARRIAGE COUNSELING (PMC)

OBJECTIVES OF THE SESSION

Account the number of differences and similarities based on the Marriage

TIME ALLOTMENT 60 minutes

Self-Assessment, Games, Dyads and

Accomplished Marriage Expectation

ACTIVITY 1: Accounting of MEI

2. In dyads, instruct the would-be-married couple/s to count the number of

3. Allow participants at least 10 minutes for the activity.

4. Afterwards, ask the participant/s to stand based on the number of