FOCCUS - more information

Pre-marriage Education

FOCCUS: Facilitating Open Couple Communication Understanding and Study

FOCCUS is an inventory based program conducted over four one-hour weekly sessions with the couple and one facilitator.

It continues to have a strong ongoing research base and the materials are periodically updated as a result of this. Inventories in Australia are very popular as couples seek to explore their relationship as part of their preparation for marriage. The program is 4 one hour sessions held at 9 CatholicCare offices around Melbourne and Geelong. At the first session the couple meet the facilitator and fill in the inventory. It consists of a series of statements and couples individually respond with agree, disagree or undecided. The responses are computer scored and a report printed that highlights the strengths and some of the challenges in a couple relationship. There are up to 18 categories which include lifestyle expectations, personality match, readiness issues etc. The couple decide which categories they wish to work on with the facilitator over the following 3 sessions.

Who are the FOCCUS facilitators?
CatholicCare employs 11 FOCCUS facilitators who all have a background in human services or related fields. They regularly participate in group and individual supervision and professional development. They enjoy their work with a diverse range of couples and are always seeking new ways of working with couples to assist them to have a great marriage.

FOCCUS Program FAQs

Q: Is it a test?
A: No, it is an inventory that has a series of statements and you can choose to respond with either agree, disagree or undecided.

Q: Do we get a certificate?
A: Yes, all couples receive a certificate that states you have attended a FOCCUS Program, date and this is signed by the educators.

Q: Do you report back to our priest/celebrant?
A: No. CatholicCare provides a confidential service to all clients in every program. We do not report back to priests/ celebrants or anyone else.

Q. Is the cost per person or per couple?
A. The cost is for the couple.