Gottman method couples therapy

Many counsellors and psychologists offer couples therapy and have undertaken various different types of training in relationship issues.  There are numerous approaches that therapists can use successfully to be able to treat couples and the very particular dynamic that occurs between them.  However, when seeking where to obtain couples therapy, it is imperative that you find a therapist who is well trained in relationship therapy in particular and that has experience in this area.

Unfortunately, there are no professional requirements that need to be obtained to offer couples therapy.  However, if a therapist undertakes such therapy with no relevant training or experience, it can do more damage to the relationship...rather than being helpful.

The Gottman Method is an approach to couples therapy that includes a thorough assessment of the couple relationship and integrates research-based interventions.  Therapists offering this approach need to obtain appropriate training.

Couples who enter into Gottman Method Couples Therapy begin with an assessment process that then informs the therapeutic framework and intervention.

Assessment
A conjoint session, followed by individual interviews with each partner are conducted. Couples complete questionnaires and then receive detailed feedback on their relationship.

Therapeutic Framework
The couple and therapist decide on the frequency and duration of the sessions.

Therapeutic Interventions
Interventions are designed to help couples strengthen their relationships in three primary areas: friendship, conflict management, and creation of shared meaning. Couples learn to replace negative conflict patterns with positive interactions and to repair past hurts. Interventions designed to increase closeness and intimacy are used to improve friendship, deepen emotional connection, and create changes which enhances the couples shared goals. Relapse prevention is also addressed.

Goals and principles of Gottman therapy

The goals of Gottman Method Couples Therapy are to disarm conflicting verbal communication, increase intimacy, respect, and affection, remove barriers that create a feeling of stagnancy in conflicting situations, and create a heightened sense of empathy and understanding within the context of the relationship.

Who can benefit?

The Gottman Method is designed to support couples across all economic, racial, sexual orientation, and cultural sectors. Outcome research has shown Gottman Method Couples Therapy to be effective for treating same-sex relationships.

Some of the relationship issues that may be addressed in therapy include:

• Frequent conflict and arguments
• Poor communication
• Emotionally distanced couples on the verge of separation
• Specific problems such as sexual difficulties, infidelity, money, and parenting

My Gottman Training

I have undertaken Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 and Infidelity and Trauma Gottman Training.