I specialize in supporting couples to improve their communication and sense of connection. I work with relationships of all shapes and sizes, including those who practice polyamory and various forms of ethical non-monogamy.
One of the fundamental human dilemmas is how to be in a relationship and maintain an autonomous self. We are social beings who need safe, supportive relationships in our lives to help co-regulate our internal systems and soothe our attachment needs. Often many of our relational challenges come from difficulty navigating differences in the relationship.
My approach to couples work pulls from a variety of perspectives, including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Method, and Family Systems. However, I primarily utilize Gestalt therapy with couples. This style of work is active, where we will get to practice new ways of connecting and communicating in session together in a safe, supportive environment. While I am Level 2 Gottman trained, I have found Gestalt therapy to be a more flexible version of the Gottman’s highly effective approach. I am happy to incorporate all of my training and experience into the work we do together.
Couples therapy can help with:
- Communication struggles, which can often show up as patterns of conflict escalation and/or avoidance
- Shifting the structure of the relationship to be more open or closed
- Unsatisfying and asymmetrical power dynamics
- Premarital and proactive support to assess current concerns and build skills to navigate the journey of a long term committed relationship
- Anger and resentment
- Infidelity
- Long-standing unresolved conflicts or differences
- Feelings of disconnection and isolation
Couples therapy can support you in achieving:
- Greater awareness of the cycles & patterns in your relationship and the impact these can have on each partner and the relationship itself
- Creating new relational patterns and communication styles that support each of your needs for connection and secure attachment
- Satisfying balance of autonomy and relational connection
- Tools and inexperience in how to repair and de-escalate when hurt or conflict arises
- The ability to show up more authentically in your relationship and experience a fuller, more satisfying connection with your partner(s)