APPROACHES

The Gottman Method

The Gottman Method is research-based couples therapy that helps you understand what’s actually going on between you and build on what works.

What it is

Drs. John and Julie Gottman have studied couples for over 40 years, watching how partners interact and what separates relationships that thrive from those that struggle. The Gottman Method turns what they found into practical tools for couples therapy.

The assessment

Therapy usually starts with an assessment, using questionnaires and conversations with you both together and separately, so we can see your strengths and where you’re stuck.

The Four Horsemen

The Gottmans identified four patterns that wear relationships down: criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling. Learning to spot them, and what to do instead, is a core part of the work.

What strong relationships share

They also describe what lasting relationships have in common, like knowing each other’s inner world, showing fondness and appreciation, turning toward each other’s bids for connection, and handling conflict well. They call this the Sound Relationship House.

Who it can help

Couples at any stage, whether you’re dating, engaged, newly married, long-term, or in a rough patch. It also works well if you want to strengthen what’s already there.

Ready to try it?

Book a free 15-minute consultation to see whether this approach fits what you’re looking for.

Using out-of-network benefits? Check your benefits

  • No. Plenty of couples come to strengthen what’s working or to prepare for a big change.

  • It’s a set of questionnaires and a few conversations about your history and your relationship. It takes some time upfront, and it gives us a clear map of what to work on.

  • Sometimes. Short exercises between sessions help you practice what we talk about so it carries into everyday life.

  • No. It’s for any committed couple.