Jessica Askari
MS, LMFT · Licensed Therapist
Individuals, couples, families, and teens. English, Farsi, and ASL.
View profileOnline premarital counseling in California
A strong marriage starts with honest conversations. Premarital counseling gives you a guided space to talk through the big topics, learn how you handle conflict, and build habits that last, before and after the wedding.
What premarital counseling can cover
- Expectations about roles, household responsibilities, and daily life together.
- Communication, and how you each handle conflict and stress.
- Money: earning, spending, saving, and shared goals.
- Family, in-laws, and the traditions you're each bringing into the marriage.
- Cultural, religious, and family values, including blending two backgrounds.
- Intimacy, time together, and keeping the relationship a priority.
- Plans for children, careers, and where you want to live.
A preventive, practical approach
Premarital counseling isn't only for couples who are struggling. Many couples come because they want to start well. Sessions combine structured conversations with skill-building, drawing on Emotionally Focused Therapy and family systems ideas to help you understand each other's needs and the patterns you each bring.
Jessica brings particular care to couples navigating immigrant and multicultural backgrounds, where family expectations and traditions can add layers to the conversation. Sessions can be held in English or Farsi.
What to expect
Start with a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation. Many couples begin a few months before the wedding, but there's no wrong time to start, and couples who are engaged or planning to marry are welcome.
Sessions are held by video, and you can meet from home. Evening appointments are available.
Meet your therapists
Ask about availability and fit when you reach out. Jessica leads the practice, and associate therapist Bahar sees clients under the supervision of Jessica Askari, MS, LMFT #120514.
Bahar Shaker
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist
Psychodynamic, Freudian-based care. Supervised by Jessica Askari, MS, LMFT #120514.
View profileCommon questions
Is premarital counseling only for couples with problems?
No. Many couples use it to start their marriage with strong communication and a shared understanding of expectations, even when things are going well.
When should we start?
Many couples begin a few months before the wedding so there's time to talk through what comes up, but any time is fine.
Can we do premarital counseling in Farsi?
Yes. Jessica offers sessions in English and Farsi.
Will insurance cover premarital counseling?
Coverage varies, and some plans don't cover it. Please check your benefits. Without insurance, sessions are $150 to $250, and sliding scale spots are available.
Related services
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Couples Therapy
Online couples therapy to rebuild trust, deepen connection, and develop healthier communication patterns.
🗣️Therapy in Farsi
Online therapy in Farsi for people across California.
🏡Family Therapy
Online family therapy to navigate conflict, strengthen bonds, and improve how your family communicates.
Ready to take the first step?
Book a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation to talk about what you're looking for and see if we're a good fit. Evening appointments are available.
Request a ConsultationOr call (424) 235-8905