What is the Gottman Method?
When we fall in love with our spouses or partners, we never imagine that the honeymoon phase might end someday. We want to believe those Hollywood romantic comedies that make us believe we will “live happily ever after.”
The truth is, all couples have their fair share of ups and downs. That’s natural. Healthy relationships require a lot of work. But sometimes, it can be difficult to do this work when communication has broken down, when trust has been broken, or you feel disconnected. Enter the Gottman Method.
What Exactly is the Gottman Method?
As a family and relationship counselor, I am always looking for tools and strategies that will help me help my clients. Years ago, I was introduced to the Gottman Method, and I have completed all three levels of training. It has enhanced my practice and given me a framework to better assist my clients in repairing and strengthening their relationships.
Developed by husband and wife therapists Drs. John and Julie Gottman, the goal of the Gottman Method is to foster connection by improving communication and increasing trust, respect, and intimacy. This specific approach to couples counseling integrates research-based interventions and includes a thorough assessment of the couple’s relationship. This assessment allows me to develop a personalized therapeutic plan to bring about lasting change.
What Can You Expect?
The assessment will show us what your relational strengths and challenges are. From there, I develop an individualized plan that will help you and your partner replace negative relationship patterns with positive ones. The work we do together will help you increase your level of intimacy and deepen your emotional connection.
Typically sessions will be held weekly to discuss and work through your particular issues while learning new ways to communicate so that you both feel heard and validated. Compassion and vulnerability are encouraged as empathy is developed.
Is the Gottman Method Right for You?
The Gottman Method has been successful for couples who are dealing with the following:
- Frequent arguing
- Problems with communication
- Lack of emotional connection
- Lack of trust and intimacy
If you and your partner are experiencing difficult-to-resolve challenges and are finding that you do not feel heard and understood by one another, please reach out to me to see how I can help you improve your relationship.
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