What is couples counseling like?

Our practice follows the Gottman Method as we work with you to address your areas of concern. Early in the assessment phase, you will be given some written materials to complete that will help us better understand your relationship. In the first sessions we will talk about the history of your relationship, areas of concern, and goals for treatment. In the next session, I will meet with you individually to learn each of your personal histories and to give each of you an opportunity to share thoughts, feelings, and perceptions. In the final session of assessment, I will share with you my recommendations for treatment and work to define mutually agreed upon goals for your therapy.

Most of the work will involve sessions where you will be seen together as a couple. However, there may be times when individual sessions are recommended. I may also give you exercises to practice between sessions. Gottman Method Couples Therapy consists of mostly 90-minute conjoint therapy sessions with you and your partner. Additionally, you will each participate in one individual session lasting 45-60 minutes. 

How long do we need to meet with our counselor?

The length of therapy will be determined by your specific needs and goals. In the course of therapy, we will establish points at which to evaluate your satisfaction and progress. Also, I will encourage you to raise any questions or concerns that you have about therapy at any time. 

In the later stage of therapy, we will “phase out” or meet less frequently in order for you to test out new relationship skills and to prepare for termination of the therapy. Although you may terminate therapy whenever you wish, it is most helpful to have at least one session together to summarize progress, define the work that remains, and say good-bye.

In the outcome-evaluation phase, as per the Gottman Method, four follow-up sessions are planned: one after six months, one after twelve months, one after eighteen months, and one after two years. These sessions have been shown through research to significantly decrease the chances of relapse into previous, unhelpful patterns. In addition, commitment to providing the best therapy possible requires ongoing evaluation of methods used and client progress. The purpose of these follow-up sessions then will be to fine-tune any of your relationship skills if needed, and to evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy received.

Special Considerations for Couples Therapy

Please know that I consider the couple relationship my primary client. As such, I will work to strengthen the relationship and will balance concern for the relationship and for each member of the relationship. Please know also that I do not keep secrets between partners during the course of therapy. However, I will not disclose them either. Rather, if you tell me something during an individual session that your partner does not know and the guarding of such information may hurt or betray your partner, I will support and encourage you to disclose the information to your partner in an appropriate manner in session. 

Finally, please know that one medical record will be kept for the both of you. If you desire separate medical records, please let me know before we start therapy.

What can we expect at our first appointment?

All of our counseling sessions meet virtually at this time. After scheduling your appointment, we'll send a confirmation email and text, and your counselor will reach out the day of your appointment with a meeting link sent to your email address.

Before your first appointment, you'll be asked to fill out a few forms and add a payment method to your TherapyAppointment profile. Once your counselor has started your session, you can expect some time spent discussing your forms as well as what to expect from our practice. We'll walk you through how we operate and get to know more about you and what you're goals are for participating in counseling.

At the end of your appointment, you and your counselor will discuss frequency of your sessions and schedule out the next or next few appointments. If you leave your first appointment with any additional questions, please don't hesitate to contact us!

How do I get started?

Just send us a text or email, or give us a call! Our office staff will ask you for some more information and start the process of verifying your insurance. From there we'll create a profile and send you a portal invitation to create an account where you can access and update all of your personal information.

When you're ready, our office staff will help you find a time for your first appointment. Your counselor will work with you to schedule your next appointment after your first session.

Our office staff is available weekdays to answer any questions and help you get started!