Couples

"The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place." 

– George Bernard Shaw

Relationships can be hard -- whether they are new, a few years in or decades in the making. Great relationships don’t just happen. We have to create them, work at them, nurture them, invest in them.

Vulnerability is not an emotion we are taught to become familiar with at a young age. We struggle with communication patterns, with unmet expectations or desires, ambivalence, excuses, social pressures, familiy pressure, and so much more.  We may struggle with emotions like resentment, anger, disillusionment, hope, confusion and loneliness. 

Couples come to me for many reasons including: to strengthen their connection, work on co-parenting, navigate wedding planning and family boundaries, adapt to next stages in their relationship, or to determine if they are better off parting ways or changing the nature of their relationship. 

My approach combines aspects of various types of couples and family therapy including The Gottman Method, Emotionally-Focused Therapy, DBT and general mediation to help improve communication, address areas of conflict, or perhaps navigate ending their partnership. 

"We are hardwired to connect with others. The most functional way to regulate difficult emotions in love relationships is to share them."

— Sue Johnson PhD, developer of EFT

"Partners don't have to achieve a perfect relationship to succeed at love. The key is learning how to better attune to each other and make friendship a top priority." 

- John M. Gottman, Ph.D.

Resources