Couples Work

You might be a couple that is feeling stuck or desiring more satisfaction. It is ironic that our deepest desires for love and connection can also be blocked by the most anxious and painful experiences. I have seen couples work through difficult patterns, overcome betrayal and breathe through tough situations.

As a couples therapist I have seen many couples over the years and have landed on the Gottman Method as a highly effective way to work with stuck relationships. 

This method is based on 50 years of evidence by the Gottman Institute where patterns of successful relationships have been identified and offered as mindset shifts and practical skills building.  The Gottman Method has seen evidence based effectiveness across diverse cultures, neurodiverse couples and across the LGBTQIA+ 🏳️‍🌈 communities.  

I was trained to use the Gottman Method at the Gay Couples Institute and under the mentorship of its founders, I served queer couples for a number of years

Some examples of issues I have experience with:

Adult ADHD relationships

Substance Abuse in relationships

Trauma in relationships

Betrayal and affairs

Challenges with intimacy

Communication challenges

Sex Positivity

Negotiation of poly or open relationships 

Aside from the Gottman Method I also use approaches and techniques from other modalities, such as Transactional Analysis, Mindfulness Based therapy,  Emotionally Focused Therapy and Relational Therapy. 

The process of this therapy is as follows:

Step 1: Relationship Check Up

1. A 'Relationship Check Up' done online and the results are sent to me as part of the initial assessment process. 

2. A joint 90-minute interview 

3. Two 45-minute individual interviews

4. A 90-minute session where a full report is shared and collaborative goals are made.

(You may choose to do all at once on a Saturday over 5-6 hours and a 30-minute break somewhere in between)

Step 2: The Work (2 Options)

1. During each 90-minute session we will work on your goals and increase your skills in the various areas identified from the initial assessment report. Every month we will collaboratively measure progress and re-establish our goals. Couples generally stay in this process from 3 months to a year depending on the goals set.

2. Alternatively, you may choose to do this over a 6-8 hour a day weekend marathon. 

Step 3: Post Work Check Ups 

1. You may return for follow-ups. These are scheduled as needed.

2. We may decide to sharpen skills or work towards a new goal.