General FAQ
Questions About the Relationship Institute
What makes the seminars at the Relationship Institute different from other forms of relationship education?
After researching thousands of couples, publishing numerous research findings, and developing a textbook used by hundreds of educators, psychologists, and experts around the world, we have discovered some surprising answers to important mysteries about relationships. As active scientists and educators, we are able to synthesize what true scientists and practitioners have to say about relationships, rather than just offer gimmicky advice that "sounds good."
Do you have a political or religious agenda?
The Relationship Institute at UCLA does not endorse any political or religious viewpoint. Our philosophy is simple: we strive to provide couples with the knowledge and guidance that can help them have strong and satisfying relationships. That said, we fully recognize the important role that spirituality and religious beliefs can play in relationships, and we touch upon this in our seminars.
Questions About What Happens in the Seminars
Will the seminars diagnose my relationship problems and tell me what to do?
Our seminars focus far more on the strengths in your relationship than on any weaknesses you might have as a couple.we then help you to build on that foundation. In addition, we aim to give you the tools and ideas that are most likely to keep your relationship vital and strong long after our seminar is over.
Will I be pressured to speak out if I attend a seminar?
No. With lively, interactive, and engaging presentations, we will make everyone feel comfortable contributing their own experiences and opinions if they wish. There is no obligation for participants to contribute, however, and no one is ever pressured to speak up. Participation can take many forms, including just sitting back and listening.
Questions About Registering and Attending
What happens after I register?
After you register we will send you an email confirming your credit-card payment and the details of your reservation. We will not send anything to you by regular mail.
Is there parking?
Yes, there is ample parking on campus, close to where the seminars are held. UCLA does charge a fee to park on campus. This is not covered by your registration payment. Access detailed parking information.
Is child care available?
Unfortunately, no. Liability and staffing issues preclude us from offering childcare at the Institute.
What if I have registered and paid for a seminar but then cannot attend?
For a full refund, cancellations must be made 7 days in advance. Any cancellations within 7 days of an event will result in a 25% cancellation fee. Space for all of the seminars offered by the Relationship Institute is extremely limited, so every registration purchased is a slot that could have gone to another couple.
Can I purchase registration to a seminar as a gift for someone else?
Certainly. Anyone - friends, parents, grandparents — can purchase seminar participation for anyone else, and we encourage and welcome this.
The seminar that I want is already filled. Is there a waiting list?
Yes. Please fill out our Seminar Notification form. If there is an opening before the date of the seminar, we will contact those on the waiting list by email.
Additional Questions
Will you be offering seminars in my area?
Currently, all seminars are held on campus at UCLA. Future seminars will be held off-campus. Please join our mailing list so that we can send you an email that will detail when these off-campus seminars have been scheduled.
How will you protect my privacy?
Your privacy is very important to us. As with any online transaction, we only collect information that is necessary for you to register and pay for a seminar. The Relationship Institute does not share personal information with any third parties. We do not collect any personal information from participants during the seminars. Access our privacy policy.
Is this a research project?
The offerings of the Institute are strictly for informational purposes and are completely separate from our research. We will ask you for anonymous comments and feedback at the conclusion of each seminar, solely to ensure that our future seminars are as effective as possible.
Can you present a seminar at my business or religious organization?
Yes. We can present our existing seminars or modify them to meet your scheduling needs (e.g., a lunchtime presentation or weekend retreat). We can also discuss other ways that we can customize our services and expertise to meet your interests. If you're interested in discussing this possibility, please contact the Institute directly. Before contacting us, please be ready to discuss the nature and goals of your event, audience, date, location, and other contract details.
Do you grant media requests for interviews?
Yes. We work closely with print and broadcast media, and we invite your inquiries. Please contact us.