couples counseling

strengthening connections beyond marriage

“Music I heard with you was more than music, and bread that I broke with you was more than bread.”

— Conrad Aitken

You're Facing Relationship Challenges: Let's Find Solutions

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When it comes to navigating the complexities of human relationships, my counseling services are here to support you. I understand that not all relationship challenges fit neatly into traditional categories.

That's why I offer comprehensive Relationship Counseling that goes beyond the boundaries of marriage and embraces the diversity of human connections.

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My Approach:

  • Marriage Counseling: I specialize in helping married couples navigate the ups and downs of married life. Whether you're facing communication issues, trust issues, or simply seeking to deepen your bond, my experience as a therapist is here to assist you.

  • Couples Counseling: Relationship challenges extend beyond marriage, which is why I provide expert Couples Counseling. This service is suitable for any two individuals looking to improve their connection, whether you're in a romantic partnership, engaged, dating, or even friends seeking to enhance your bond.

  • Individual Relationship Counseling: I understand that sometimes, only one person in a relationship may be ready to seek therapy. My Individual Relationship Counseling offers a safe space for you to explore and work through relationship issues, even if your partner is not yet on board.

  • Diverse Relationships: My inclusive approach welcomes all forms of relationships, including polyamorous and non-traditional partnerships. I aim to create a non-judgmental environment where individuals and groups can explore their unique dynamics and challenges.

  • Family, Friendships, and Colleagues: Relationships are not limited to romantic connections. If you're experiencing difficulties with family members, friends, or colleagues, I can help you navigate these complex interactions.

HOW IT WORKS

RELATIONSHIP COUNSELING

Relationship counseling is a transformative journey towards healthier connections.

Just like everyone, you seek to nurture meaningful connections, whether in your marriage, partnership, friendship, family, or within yourself. My role in our counseling sessions is to help you identify, communicate, and strengthen these dynamics, whatever the nature of your relationships. Together, we focus on what matters most: understanding, compassion, and personal growth.

I integrate two highly researched methods: the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). The Gottman Method, based on decades of research, offers practical tools to manage conflict and cultivate intimacy. EFT, also extensively studied, is rooted in Attachment Theory, which highlights our fundamental need for secure, trusting relationships. This approach helps each partner feel truly heard, seen, and valued—strengthening your bond by addressing emotional needs in a way that feels authentic and lasting.

In addition to the foundational Gottman Method for couples, I have received specialized training in several key areas:

  1. Infidelity Recovery: I am equipped to address the challenges of infidelity and affairs through the Gottman approach known as Infidelity Recovery. This specialized training allows me to assist couples in navigating the complex emotions and issues that arise in the aftermath of infidelity.

  2. Trauma-Informed Care: If one or both partners have a history of trauma that is affecting the relationship, I am trained in the Gottman approach to trauma-informed care. This means I can provide support and strategies tailored to your unique situation, ensuring that past trauma does not hinder your relationship's growth.

  3. Substance Use Concerns: I have training in the Gottman approach to working with couples where one or both partners are dealing with substance use issues. This includes situations where one partner is actively using or is in recovery. Unlike some approaches to couples therapy or marriage counseling, the Gottmans’ research shows that couple's therapy can actually be a valuable part of the recovery process, and it can increase the likelihood that a person with substance use concerns seeks treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • In the initial therapy sessions, we'll discuss the challenges that prompted you to seek help, explore your history, and establish your objectives.

    For marriage counseling and couple’s counseling, because I am Gottman Level 2 trained, the initial sessions with me will focus on assessing your relationship and its history. In some cases, I will build a relationship profile summarizing both the strengths and challenges of your relationship and my recommendations for specific things to work on.

    I’ll share the profile with you typically in our 3rd session together. It also gives us a blueprint for a path forward on what we need to focus on. And of course, you have 100% input into that path forward. It’s your relationship, afterall!

  • The duration of counseling will be tailored to your specific needs.

    According to research, in marriage counseling and couple’s counseling, partners typically experience positive outcomes within 12-15 sessions, and I believe the same is possible for you.

    That said, while some clients may graduate from therapy within that time, others find the therapeutic journey enriching and choose to continue as their lives evolve.

    My objective is to help you achieve your goals as efficiently and quickly as possible, and I will continue to provide support as long as counseling proves beneficial to you.

  • It's quite common for one partner to consider therapy before others are ready to join. However, this doesn't need to impede your relationship's progress.

    You can start therapy individually during this phase. We'll work together to identify your personal goals and develop strategies to enhance your relationship. Once your partner(s) is ready, we can seamlessly transition to joint sessions. Your well-being and relationship improvement remain our priority.

  • Although I can't promise specific outcomes, I firmly believe in the possibility of growth, healing, and change, which I witness daily as my clients' relationships evolve and improve.

    Extensive research indicates that the quality of the relationship between therapist and client is the most significant and dependable predictor of a positive therapy outcome.

    This is why I offer a free consultation to ensure that we're the right fit to work together towards your goals.

  • Contact me to schedule a complimentary consultation to determine whether we're a good match. Your comfort with your counselor is essential, and I'm committed to assisting you in deciding if I'm the appropriate fit for you.

RELATIONSHIP COUNSELING

REPAIR. REBUILD. RECONNECT.