What is your go-to approach for couples/marriage counseling?

My go-to approach in couples therapy is the Gottman Method. The Gottman Method is an approach to couples therapy that includes a thorough assessment of the coupleâs relationship and integrates research-based interventions based on the Sound Relationship House Theory. The goals of Gottman Method Couples Therapy are to disarm conflicting verbal communication; increase intimacy, respect, and affection; remove barriers that create a feeling of stagnancy; and create a heightened sense of empathy and understanding within the context of the relationship.

What tools do you teach in couples/marriage counseling?

Interventions are designed to help couples strengthen their relationships in three primary areas: friendship, conflict management, and creation of shared meaning. Couples learn to replace negative conflict patterns with positive interactions and to repair past hurts. Interventions designed to increase closeness and intimacy are used to improve friendship, deepen emotional connection, and create changes that enhance the couple's shared goals. Relapse prevention is also addressed.

How do you know when a client is making meaningful progress in couples/marriage counseling?

I see progress when couples display: Improved communication skills: Couples learn to express themselves more effectively and listen actively to their partner's perspective without judgment or defensiveness. They learn to communicate their needs, desires, and feelings in a clear and respectful manner., Enhanced emotional connection: Couples develop a deeper understanding of each other's emotional worlds, leading to increased empathy and intimacy. They learn to recognize and respond to each other's emotional cues, fostering a stronger emotional bond., Effective conflict resolution: Couples acquire strategies for managing conflicts constructively, such as using âIâ statements, practicing active listening, and compromising to find mutually satisfactory solutions. They learn to de-escalate conflicts before they escalate into destructive arguments., Increased relationship satisfaction: As couples implement the skills and techniques learned in therapy, they often experience a greater sense of satisfaction and fulfillment in their relationship. They feel more connected, supported, and valued by their partner., Reduction in negative interactions: Progress can also be measured by a decrease in negative interactions, such as criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling. Instead, couples cultivate more positive interactions, such as expressions of appreciation, affection, and validation., Maintenance of positive changes: Sustainable progress is demonstrated by the ability of couples to maintain the positive changes achieved in therapy over the long term. They continue to apply the principles and skills learned in therapy to navigate future challenges and conflicts effectively.

What can clients do in their personal time to supplement couples/marriage counseling?

Clients should read âThe Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work.â I also recommend regularly engaging in the Love Maps exercise and having stress-reducing conversations.

What should someone do to prepare for starting couples/marriage counseling?

Preparing for couples or marriage counseling can help ensure that both partners get the most out of the experience. Here are some steps you can take to prepare: Reflect on your goals: Spend some time thinking about what you hope to achieve through counseling. Are there specific issues you want to address or goals you want to work toward as a couple?, Be open to change: Recognize that counseling may require both partners to make changes in their attitudes, behaviors, or communication patterns. Approach the process with an open mind and a willingness to try new approaches., Communicate with your partner: Talk to your partner about your thoughts and feelings regarding counseling. Share your hopes, fears, and expectations for the process. It's essential to approach counseling as a team., Choose the right counselor: Take the time to research and find a counselor who is a good fit for both you and your partner. Look for someone with experience working with couples and who you both feel comfortable opening up to., Be honest and transparent: During counseling sessions, be honest and open with your counselor and your partner. Share your thoughts, feelings, and concerns openly, even if they are difficult to discuss., Practice active listening: Develop your listening skills to truly hear and understand your partner's perspective. Avoid interrupting or becoming defensive during conversations., Be patient and persistent: Counseling is a process, and it may take time to see progress. Be patient with yourselves and each other, and continue to work on your relationship outside of counseling sessions., Commit to the process: Make a commitment to attend counseling sessions regularly and actively participate in the process. Remember that counseling is an investment in your relationship, and the more effort you put in, the greater the potential rewards., Keep an open mind: Be open to trying new strategies and techniques suggested by your counselor, even if they seem unfamiliar or uncomfortable at first., Take care of yourself: Remember to prioritize self-care during the counseling process. Engage in activities that help you relax and reduce stress, and seek support from friends, family, or a therapist if needed.

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My therapist appointment was great and has been since I have been seeing him once a week. His name is David Harmon and he is really good listener and has given me some a great tools to begin healing from past trauma. I highly recommend him.

Read more My therapist appointment was great and has been since I have been seeing him once a week. His name is David Harmon and he is really good listener and has given me some a great tools to begin healing from past trauma. I highly recommend him.

Leigh Feb 2024