We’ve all heard the phrase “saving your marriage before it starts.” It’s the tagline of the renowned SYMBIS assessment developed by Drs. Les and Leslie Parrott. It is widely used by engaged couples to lay a solid foundation.
But what if you didn’t take it before the wedding? What if you’ve been married for two, five, or ten years, and you feel like you’re just navigating the daily grind rather than experiencing the blissful union you envisioned?
Here is the good news: it is not too late.
In fact, Les and Leslie Parrott designed the SYMBIS+ Assessment specifically for couples who are already married. Whether you are in the newlywed phase or in the trenches of a long-term relationship, the SYMBIS assessment acts as a powerful, research-backed tool to reboot your connection.
Here are the key benefits of taking the SYMBIS assessment after you are married.
1. It Provides a “Reset Button” for Your Relationship
Life happens quickly after the wedding. Careers, home ownership, and perhaps children can cause you to grow apart rather than together. The SYMBIS assessment helps couples who have already grown apart learn to grow together. It acts as a second chance to examine your relationship dynamics without the emotional pressure of planning a wedding.
2. You Get a Personalized “Roadmap” to Your Spouse
Even if you’ve been together for years, you might be surprised by what you don’t know about your spouse’s evolving inner world. The SYMBIS+ assessment provides a highly personalized, detailed report that uncovers your, and your spouse’s, unique psychology.
- It highlights how your personalities mesh (or clash).
- It gives you insight into your partner’s deepest needs.
- It provides a fresh, objective perspective on your communication styles.
3. It Transforms Conflict into Connection
Conflict is inevitable in any marriage, but it is how you handle it that defines the success of your relationship. SYMBIS highlights your specific fight types and offers constructive, practical strategies to resolve disputes rather than just managing them. It helps you stop the cycle of destructive, repetitive arguments and start solving problems together as a team.
4. It Tackles “Hot Spot” Topics (Money, Sex, and Roles)
Many married couples suffer from taboo topics that are never truly discussed. SYMBIS dives deep into:
- Finances: Understanding your partner’s spending habits vs. your saving habits.
- Sexuality: Addressing intimacy needs and communication.
- Roles: Clarifying expectations around chores and daily responsibilities.
5. It Identifies “Blind Spots”
When we are deeply in love (or even just deeply comfortable), we often ignore critical details that can affect our marriage, or we are simply oblivious to our own irritating habits. SYMBIS acts as a mirror that brings these blind spots to light in a gentle, constructive way, helping you see the real picture of your relational momentum.
The Bottom Line: Why Now?
The SYMBIS assessment is a lifelong tool that can be returned to at any point. Research shows that couples who invest in their marriage by taking such assessments are better able to avoid the destructive patterns that lead to divorce.
If you want to move from merely surviving to thriving, taking the SYMBIS assessment with a certified facilitator is one of the best investments you can make in your marriage.