Is your relationship in trouble?
Are you stuck in constant arguments or communication breakdowns with your partner? Has trust been shattered by an affair or hidden issues?
Relationships can face tough times, but ongoing unaddressed problems can lead to exhaustion and despair. Consider working with a trained relationship psychologist instead of jumping to separation or divorce. We can uncover the root causes, rebuild trust and get you back to a healthier relationship that is often more honest and loving.
I’ve trained with The Gottman Institute to help couples resolve their differences in a science-based, research and therapeutic way.
The process starts with each partner filling out a comprehensive online questionnaire to help me evaluate the areas of weakness and strengths. We then agree on a strategy and number of sessions.
My approach
Our closest relationships often bring us immense happiness and satisfaction, but sometimes, they face challenges.
I’ve assisted many couples who have turned to counseling to mend or navigate their relationships. Together, we can work towards rebuilding your bond, or if separation is your chosen path, we’ll aim for an amicable process.
My goal is not to solve your problems for you but to equip you with the skills and tools needed to address them yourself. This way, you’ll be better prepared for the future.
I specialise in the Gottman Couples Therapy method, a comprehensive, science-based approach. I’ll encourage open conversations about difficult topics and explore your upbringing and family history, as these factors can influence how you respond in relationships. You’ll gain insights into improvement areas by examining your behavioural patterns and communication styles.
Ultimately, my role is to help you as a couple recognise communication patterns and behaviours. This empowers both of you to take responsibility for your choices and actions, finding the best path to resolve your challenges.
Based on your unique needs, we can have:
- If that’s all it takes to address your concerns, a single couples counselling session.
- Multiple sessions over weeks or months for a deeper exploration if needed.
In some cases, I may suggest individual sessions with each of you to understand your perspectives on the relationship issues better. Then, together, we’ll provide you with the skills and tools to enhance your communication and work on other aspects of your relationship that require attention.
The nitty gritty
During the assessment, I’ll take a brief history from you which covers the issues that you are bringing to counselling, as well as a general history of your relationship, so I get the full picture. Some of the questions I will ask include:
• What issues have you been experiencing in your relationship?
• How long have these issues been a problem in your relationship?
• Have you ever been in relationship counselling before?
• What have you and your partner done to try to resolve these issues?
• What are your expectations of couples counselling?
Above all, my aim is to give you a safe place in which to talk about your relationship issues so you can improve your communication and gain confidence in self-expression as a couple.
You’ll discover how to negotiate and compromise with one another so you can find different ways of moving forward – either together or apart.
What to expect
I use the Gottman Method for couples therapy and a therapeutic and solution-focused approach to help you navigate your relationship challenges effectively. This combination of methods facilitates a deeper understanding of your dynamic relationship patterns. It accelerates the therapeutic process, all of which helps you both straightforwardly achieve your goals.
Now, let’s delve into the common questions and insights about what you can expect in
our couples therapy sessions.
1. What is the Gottman Method for couples therapy?
The Gottman Method is a research-based approach to couples therapy developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman. It focuses on strengthening relationships by improving communication, increasing emotional connection, and resolving conflicts constructively.
2. How long does a typical couples therapy session with a Gottman-trained therapist last?
A standard couples therapy session typically lasts about 90 minutes. The extended duration allows for more in-depth exploration and progress.
3. Will we both attend every session together?
In most cases, both partners should attend every session together. Couples therapy is most effective when both individuals are actively engaged.
4. What should we bring to our first session?
For your first session, it’s helpful to come prepared to share your thoughts and feelings openly. You don’t need to bring anything specific, as I will guide you through the initial paperwork and discussions.
5. How often should we expect to attend therapy sessions?
The frequency of therapy sessions can vary. Initially, weekly sessions are common to build momentum and address pressing issues. As progress is made, sessions may become less frequent.
6. Are the sessions confidential?
Yes, therapy sessions are confidential. Ethical standards and legal regulations bind me to protect your privacy. Information discussed in therapy will not be disclosed without your consent, except in cases where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others.
7. How long does couples therapy typically last?
The duration of therapy varies depending on the complexity of the issues and the progress made. Some couples may achieve their goals in a few months, while others may benefit from ongoing support over an extended period.
8. What should we do between sessions to make the most of therapy?
Practising the skills and techniques learned in therapy outside of the sessions is essential. Open communication, active listening, and implementing conflict-resolution strategies are crucial to maximising the benefits of therapy.
9. What can we expect in each therapy session?
Each therapy session will be different and can sometimes be challenging. It’s important to remember that I remain non-judgmental throughout the process. There may besessions where I explore issues more with one partner and not as much with the other, but that does not mean I’m taking sides. I simply work with what comes up in the session to facilitate the healing and growth of your relationship.
10. What is your therapeutic approach?
My approach is very solution-focused, so you will always be asked to complete workbetween sessions. This proactive approach helps you to apply what you’ve learned in therapy to your daily lives and work towards positive change.