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Dr. G. Stephen Renfrey is a clinical psychologist, life-coach, and author. He received his undergraduate degree in zoology and psychology at the University of Toronto and went on to work and study at the University of British Columbia. He completed his graduate training in clinical psychology and holistic health care at Western Michigan University, and was on staff at the Michigan State University Counseling Center before deciding to pursue a full-time private practice.
Dr Renfrey is a lifelong practitioner of yoga and meditation and has pursued lay-interests in socio-biology, cultural anthropology, and diverse other fields. Combined with his training in holistic health care and his more than 20 years of clinical experience, he brings a balance of scientific, metaphysical, and spiritual perspectives to his work.
Dr. Renfrey has authored numerous pieces for academic texts and journals, but in recent years he has turned his attention to publishing books for general readership. This is his third non-fiction, self-help book, and he has authored works of fiction. He continues his private psychological practice based out of in Ontario, Canada, and California, USA, and provides services face to face and by electronic means.
Reviewed by Anne Boling for Readers' Favorite
"The One Year Marriage: A Formula For Enduring Love" by G. Stephen Renfrey, Ph.D., covers exams, love, romance, marriage and relationships. In the Preface Renfrey addresses a major problem with marriage. We too often go into it with idyllic notions of what a marriage should be like. However, relationships tend to fall short of our unrealistic expectations. After reading the title of this book I was surprised to discover the author does believe in soul mates, commitment, marriage and love. The author has dedicated two chapters to exploring individual’s expectations of marriage. Among the expectations are sex, companionship and security, someone you can depend on, children, love and acceptance. It is unfortunate that once married we become wrapped up in our careers and stop taking time for our spouse and the much-needed romance, love, companionship and sex. Chapter two discusses a rethinking of marriage, 'The One Year Marriage.' The author is proposing “that couples consciously approach their relationship commitments as mutually negotiated one year agreements that, if not renewed at the anniversary, automatically dissolve according to agreed on terms.” When I first read this statement I was shocked and then I continued reading. There is not room in this review to explain the author’s idea. However, after reading farther I had a different comprehension of what he was proposing.
The examples in this book add much to the text. The reader needs to go into this book with an open mind. When your first thought is to disagree, continue reading and be open to what the author is proposing. Renfrey has both organized and researched his book. He has carefully thought out the topic. One of the best parts of the book comes at the end where he offers the opportunity to explore your relationship. There are five steps to assist you in your exploration. He has also included quotes scattered throughout the text. They are well-chosen and again lend depth to the script. I highly recommend this book to all couples considering marriage and to married couples.
