Couples therapy provides a structured, supportive space to slow down difficult conversations and better understand what is happening in your relationship. Many couples seek therapy when communication has broken down, conflict feels repetitive or escalates quickly, trust has been strained, or emotional distance has grown over time. Therapy can also be helpful during major life transitions, periods of stress, or when couples want to strengthen their relationship rather than wait for a crisis.

My approach to couples therapy is Gottman-informed and integrative. I work with both partners to understand interaction patterns, emotional dynamics, and the cycles that keep conflict going. Drawing on decades of clinical experience and research-based Gottman methods, the focus is on improving communication, reducing escalation, strengthening emotional safety, and supporting more constructive ways of responding to one another.

All couples sessions are offered virtually using a secure, encrypted platform designed for healthcare practitioners. This allows couples to participate from their own space while maintaining privacy and confidentiality.

Areas Commonly Addressed in Couples Therapy

Couples may seek therapy for concerns such as:

• Communication breakdowns or recurring arguments
• High-conflict or escalating patterns
• Emotional distance, withdrawal, or disconnection
• Trust concerns or relationship strain
• Managing stress, parenting pressures, or life transitions
• Differences in needs, expectations, or values
• Anger, resentment, or unresolved conflict
• Rebuilding connection after difficult periods

You do not need to be at a breaking point to benefit from couples therapy.

What to Expect in Couples Therapy

Couples sessions are typically 1.5 hours, allowing enough time for both partners to be heard and for the work to proceed at a thoughtful, manageable pace. Early sessions focus on understanding your relationship history, current concerns, and the patterns that tend to lead to conflict or disconnection.

Sessions are structured, balanced, and guided to maintain fairness and emotional safety. I work actively to slow conversations down when needed, help partners listen differently, and introduce practical tools for communication and repair. Exercises or guided discussions may be used to support understanding and skill development.

Progress in couples therapy is gradual and practical. The goal is not to assign blame or determine who is “right,” but to help couples develop insight, improve communication, and respond to challenges in ways that support greater stability, respect, and connection over time.

Approach & Session Structure

My work with couples is informed by the Gottman Method, including techniques such as:

• Identifying recurring conflict patterns
• Learning soft start-ups and repair attempts
• Reducing defensiveness and escalation
• Strengthening emotional attunement and friendship
• Building skills for conflict regulation and recovery

These tools are adapted to the specific needs and pace of each couple and integrated thoughtfully into the therapeutic process.

Scope Clarification

Couples therapy is not about taking sides, providing legal advice, or determining fault. This work focuses on relational patterns, communication, and emotional processes within the scope of psychotherapy. If your situation requires a different form of support, I will help you consider appropriate next steps.