Happy Birthday!
I think it's good that you are going separately first. It's sometimes easier to open up, especially when talking about things you are ashamed of or things you are unhappy about within your marriage or some deep-rooted childhood issues, when you are one on one with the counselor. It's important to come to terms with yourself individually prior to working together. Once they know where you both are coming from, it will be easier to help you with your relationship with each other.
It sure sounds like you both want the same result...a strong, happy marriage, and that is a great foundation to start with.