Couples Therapy

There is a lot of pressure on relationships. As a couple if you are not communicating well then, your lives are even more difficult.

When I work with couples, there is often a breakdown in communication, one or both parties feel they are not listened, are misunderstood. There may be hurt from the past, pressures around parenting styles or financial stress. My approach is based on understanding communication styles. Often one partner has a different communication style to the other. Once the different styles of communication are understood, then I have found that many of the problems couples are facing can be managed or resolved.

My approaches to couple therapy have been influenced by the following and I use aspects of these in my couple therapy work:

1. Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

• Focuses on identifying and reshaping emotional responses to build stronger bonds and resolve conflicts

• Aims to create secure emotional attachment between partners, fostering empathy and understanding

2. Gottman Method

• Based on research by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, this method works on strengthening the “Sound Relationship House”

• Prioritizes improving communication, addressing conflict, and building emotional intimacy

3. Cognitive Behavioural Couple Therapy (CBCT)

• Helps couples identify and change harmful thought patterns and behaviours

• Encourages problem-solving and developing healthier communication strategies

4. Integrative Behavioural Couple Therapy (IBCT)

• Combines behavioural strategies with emotional acceptance techniques

• Focuses on helping partners accept their differences while working on positive change

5. Imago Relationship Therapy

• Seeks to help partners understand each other childhood wounds and emotional triggers

• Aims to turn conflict into opportunities for growth and connection

6. Solution-Focused Therapy

• Emphasizes finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems

• Focuses on the future and achieving shared goals

• Relationships are as unique as the people in them, so therapy is often about finding the right fit

• Each approach has its strengths, and I adapt my response based each the couple needs