Every committed relationship is characterized by varying degrees of conflict. Causes of conflict include financial strain, career stress, personal circumstances, and trauma. How a couple manages and resolves conflict can bring them closer together or push them apart. Sometimes distress in relationships can become overwhelming and cause partners to feel scared and hopeless.Couples therapy can help partners identify and understand what keeps them together. However, it takes effort and a willingness to be vulnerable and explore hurts and pain. Our practice supports couples by helping them:

• identify unresolved wounds or trauma
• increase their personal insight and understanding about their role in the relationship
• understand their partner’s perspective and attachment needs
• regain trust and restore lost commitment
• create greater emotional connection
• improve their practical communication and interpersonal skills

Our work with couples is informed by the Gottman Institute, which promotes a research-based approach to couple’s therapy. I have completed Levels 1 and 2 of the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy. I also often find it useful to incorporate Dr. Sue Johnson’s Emotion Focused Couples Therapy techniques.