Dismayed by the effects of divorce on teens in their church youth ministry, Ed and Mary Beth Koplin of New Smyrna Beach, FL decided to work with married couples to improve communication and stem the tide of divorce.   Since 2003, they have been certified teachers of the Couple Communication program. In their spare time, using a program developed by pioneers in Family Studies, Drs. Sherrod and Phyllis Miller, University of Minnesota Family Study Center.    

The Koplins have taught hundreds of couples the program, which uses floor mats to guide couples through the process of resolving conflicts. Participants discover that in addition to improving their marriage, the skills they learn can help improve communication with their children, co-workers and others.

"Our mission is to take married couples from conflict to collaboration and intimacy within four weeks," the Koplins say. "The closer the person is to you, the more effective the program benefits become."

Some couples that came to the class in conflict have had so much benefit that they volunteer to support the program. 

Since its inception more than 40 years ago at the University of Minnesota Family Study Center, more than 600,000 couples have taken the course throughout the United States, Canada and Asia.

The four-week session is held with six to 12 couples, who listen to presentations and demonstrations, then practice the techniques on the mats. Coaches help couples fine-tune their skills and encourage each other to practice between sessions.

"This has been one of the most fulfilling experiences in my life. I get to work with my wife of 36 years, and help other families in our area," says Ed Koplin. He and Mary Beth have four grown sons.

Mary Beth Koplin says. "It's been wonderful to pass on these skills to our children as they grow up and get married."