Couples Counseling
So much of our sense of happiness and well being is connected to the health of our relationships. Relationships are what give our lives meaning but sadly they’re often a source of our discontent.
My approach to treatment is rooted in Family Systems Theory as well as Attachment Theory, however I use a variety of techniques and interventions in therapy. Utilizing evidence-based cognitive and behavioral strategies, I actively collaborate with clients to help set realistic and measureable goals.
Working with couples, I primarily use the Gottman Method Couples Therapy approach. It is structured, goal-oriented, and scientifically-based. Based upon empirical data from Dr. Gottman’s four decades of research with more than 3,000 couples, this research shows what actually works to help couples achieve healthy long-lasting relationships.
It's critical to create a safe place where each person can feel heard and investigate why these conflicts are happening, and, in a non-judgmental way, to bring awareness of the negative patterns and why there’re occurring.
From there we can find ways to bridge the gulf between partners and begin transforming an unhealthy pattern of conflict to one of supportive, fulfilling partnership. In this process we’ll work cooperatively to forge a path that brings you from here to a place of respect instead of resentment, mutual support instead of alienation, and empathy instead of isolation.
To set couples up for future success, I also focus on equipping couples with the communications tools necessary to manage and resolve conflict when it arises. In addition to Gottman I incorporate elements of FFT (Functional Family Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), and in my couples work, and have had enormous success even when all hope seemed lost.
