We could either do about 6 sessions split between the priest and a local support couple or knock it all out in a single weekend retreat. We did the former since it was cheaper and still very easy. One of the first things we did was separately fill out a series of questions about ourselves, the other person, and our view on the relationship overall. Then we went over our answers to see what potential issues we have and haven’t addressed. It wasn’t about having right or wrong answers, just about opening the discussion and having someone there guide you through it objectively. Having the counselor there (in our case a priest) was important because it insulated us from having one person unconsciously dominate the discussion or hearing only what we wanted to hear.
The priest told us that he had counseled many couples who ultimately decided not to get married, like one couple who each had very different dreams about how many children they would have. It was far preferable for everyone to bring these things to the surface before committing to something that just couldn’t be sustained indefinitely.
Believe it or not, religion was just one of very many points of discussion. Our church was sincerely more interested that we were appropriately compatible than strictly adherent. For what it’s worth, any worthwhile counseling should in include extensive discussion about religion. It’s fairly common that a parent will return to their religious background once they have children. How would you feel if you or your husband had this change of heart and/or wanted to involve your children in their faith? Do you fundamentally disagree and could this be a deal breaker for either of you?
Overall, ours was a really great experience. We didn’t really learn anything new, or at least nothing major, but we did confirm that we were on the same page for the really big issues, money, family, religion, sex, careers, children, etc. I try to talk everyone I can into doing premarital counseling, religious or not. We’ve been married over 5 years now and I still fondly recall these sessions.
I’ll add this as well, I believe the retreat option was technically Catholic, but they were very open to people of all beliefs including atheists. That doesn’t mean that every religious based counseling service is reputable but I would still suggest using these communities as a starting point.
As for finances, I find it hard to believe that insurance would cover anything, but like you suggest, counseling will be way cheaper than divorce if it turns out there is any incompatibility. Best of luck to you.