Strengthening Marriages. Equipping Families. Resourcing Pastors.
ABCFM MARRIAGE AND FAMILY ENRICHMENT MINISTRY
Resources for Marriages and Families to thrive
As a ministry of ABCFM, the Healthy Family Initiative is dedicated to strengthening marriages and empowering families across Arkansas. With the state facing the highest divorce rate in the nation, this initiative provides crucial support through intensives, enrichment resources, retreats, and courses tailored to the needs of families and church leaders. Led by James Barham, LPC, LMFT, the initiative partners with local churches to offer resources that promote healing, growth, and Christ-centered homes. Through these services, ABCFM continues its mission to build, strengthen, and restore families, cultivating healthy, thriving relationships within the local church.
“That they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.”
ISAIAH 61:3
HFI Resources & Services
MARRIAGE FOCUSED RETREATS
Marriage-Focused Retreats at ABCFM’s Arkansas Baptist Ranch in the Ozarks provide a peaceful, supportive environment for couples to renew their connection.
These retreats host up to two couples, offering personalized sessions led by James Barham, LPC, LMFT.
Sessions emphasize communication, strengthening bonds, and practical relationship tools.
Couples leave with a renewed sense of unity and a stronger foundation for their marriage.
POST ADOPTIVE FAMILY FOCUSED RETREATS
Post-adoptive family retreats at ABCFM’s Arkansas Baptist Ranch in the Ozarks provide targeted therapeutic support for families navigating challenges after adoption.
These retreats are led by a Living Well Professional Counselor and focus on reducing trauma reactivity and building coping skills.
Activities promote positive experiences and strengthen parental bonding to create safe, nurturing environments.
Families gain tools to foster a space where children can thrive and explore with confidence.
MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT
The marriage tune-up workshop is offered in partnership with local churches to support couples in strengthening their relationships.
This workshop is designed for a large group setting and provides practical tools for relationship enhancement.
Led by a Living Well Professional Counselor, we focus on key aspects of healthy communication and connection.
The weekend workshop is hosted at a local church, offering a convenient and supportive environment for couples.
PREMARRIAGE PREPARATION
A weekly Zoom program is offered quarterly for couples who are engaged to be married, providing accessible support from home.
The 8-week program takes place on Wednesday evenings and includes the SYMBIS assessment for deeper relationship insights.
Led by James Barham, LPC, LMFT, the sessions focus on building a strong foundation for marriage.
Couples gain tools and guidance to prepare for a healthy, lasting relationship.
MARRIAGE INTENSIVE
A marriage intensive is a focused, short-term therapy approach designed to accelerate progress and build momentum in a couple's relationship by addressing key issues and promoting healing in a concentrated timeframe. Facilitated by Dr. Stephen Bell, a marriage intensive is the equivalent of 20 therapy sessions.