What to Expect with the Gottman Method
An Overview of the Therapy Process
Gottman Method Couples Therapy consists of five parts:
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Assessment
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Treatment
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"Phasing out" of Therapy
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Termination
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Outcome Evaluation
Couples complete questionnaires (see Gottman Relationship Checkup) developed as part of the Gottman Method.
Much of our 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.
The length of therapy will be determined by your specific needs and goals. During the course of therapy, we will establish points at which to evaluate your satisfaction and progress.
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 goodbye.
In the outcome-evaluation phase, as per the Gottman Method, follow-up sessions are planned. The purpose of these follow-up sessions will be to fine-tune any of your relationship skills if needed and evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy received.
Gottman Method Couples Therapy
What Is It?
The Gottman Method is a type of couples therapy developed by Dr. John Gottman and Dr. Julie Schwartz Gottman that utilize research-based. These interventions are rooted in the Sound Relationship House theory which specifies nine components of a healthy relationship.
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.
The Gottman Method is designed to support couples across all economic, racial, sexual orientation, and cultural sectors.
Gottman Relationship Checkup
Gottman Relationship Checkup:
A Blueprint for Understanding Challenges Unique to Your Relationship
The Gottman Relationship Checkup is an online questionnaire created by Drs. John and Julie Gottman consisting of 337 questions.
The questionnaire is independently completed by each partner. Upon the completion and submission by both partners of the questionnaire, I receive a detailed report of the couples' responses, areas of concern, strengths, and challenges within the relationship.
Additionally, intervention recommendations and suggested treatment options are noted. This questionnaire is an assessment tool that serves as a unique blueprint for my work with couples and assists with the development of treatment plans.