Couples therapy sessions are designed to help partners build stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling relationships. With a deep understanding of the complexities that couples face, I offer a supportive and non-judgmental space where partners can explore their relationship dynamics, enhance communication, and resolve conflicts.

The Initial Assessment

The couples therapy process begins with an initial assessment to understand the unique dynamics of the relationship. This involves meeting with both partners together to discuss your concerns, goals, and what you hope to achieve through therapy. I will ask questions to gain insights into the history of the relationship, any recurring patterns, and the current challenges you are facing.

During this session, I also assess your communication styles, emotional connection, and any external factors that may be influencing the relationship, such as stress, work, family dynamics, or past traumas. This thorough understanding allows me to tailor the therapy process to the specific needs of the couple.

A Customized Approach to Therapy

I believe that no two relationships are the same, and therefore, my approach to therapy is highly customized. I draw from various therapeutic models and techniques, choosing those that best fit your unique situation. Some of the key approaches I may use include:

1. Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): I often use EFT to help couples understand and reframe their emotional responses to each other. This approach is particularly effective in helping partners build a stronger emotional connection by recognizing and addressing underlying fears and insecurities that may be driving conflict.

2. Gottman Method: I also incorporate techniques from the Gottman Method, which is based on extensive research into what makes relationships succeed or fail. This method focuses on improving communication, building trust, and developing positive interactions. I may use specific exercises to help you enhance your friendship, manage conflict, and create shared meaning.

3. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): For couples struggling with negative thought patterns or behaviors, I may use CBT to help them recognize and change these patterns. This approach is particularly useful for addressing issues like jealousy, trust, and communication problems.

4. Attachment-Based Therapy: I also consider the role of attachment styles in the relationship. I help couples explore how their early attachment experiences may be influencing their current relationship dynamics. This can be particularly valuable for couples dealing with issues of trust, dependency, or emotional availability.

5. Solution-Focused Therapy: I may use solution-focused techniques to help couples identify their strengths and resources, and to focus on practical solutions to their problems. This approach is action-oriented and encourages couples to set and achieve specific relationship goals.

The Therapy Process

My couples therapy sessions typically follow a structured yet flexible process, allowing room for the couple’s evolving needs. The process includes:

1. Building Rapport: In the early sessions, I focus on building trust and rapport with both partners. I create a safe space where both individuals feel heard and respected, ensuring that each partner can express their thoughts and feelings openly.

2. Identifying Patterns: I help the couple identify and understand the patterns in their relationship that may be contributing to their challenges. This involves looking at how the partners interact with each other, the roles they play, and how they respond to conflict.

3. Improving Communication: One of the core aspects of my work is improving communication between partners. I teach effective communication techniques that help couples express their needs, listen to each other, and resolve conflicts in a healthy way. This may include learning how to avoid criticism, defensiveness, and stonewalling, and instead foster open and constructive dialogue.

4. Addressing Emotional Needs: I help couples explore their emotional needs and how they can be met within the relationship. This involves understanding each partner’s attachment style, emotional triggers, and the underlying emotions driving their behavior. I work with the couple to develop strategies for meeting each other’s emotional needs in a way that strengthens their bond.

5. Strengthening Intimacy: For couples struggling with intimacy issues, I address both emotional and physical intimacy. I help partners reconnect on a deeper level, whether by improving emotional closeness or addressing specific sexual concerns. This may involve exercises that enhance physical touch, trust-building activities, or exploring new ways to connect intimately.

6. Creating Lasting Change: As the couple progresses through therapy, I focus on helping them create lasting change. This involves reinforcing the positive changes they have made, addressing any remaining challenges, and developing a plan for maintaining their progress outside of therapy. I may assign homework exercises to practice new skills and encourage continued growth.

What to Expect in a Session

Each session with me is a collaborative process where both partners are actively involved. Sessions typically last 60 minutes, providing time for in-depth exploration of issues and meaningful interaction between the partners. I encourage both partners to share their perspectives and work to ensure that each person feels understood and valued.

My approach is gentle yet direct, helping couples confront difficult issues while also fostering hope and positivity. I am committed to helping couples not only resolve their immediate concerns but also build a stronger, more resilient relationship for the future.