Couples therapy
Every couple experiences relationship problems and conflict. These challenges can be about specific events or may involve ongoing negative patterns. The increased stress that comes at these times can make it difficult for a couple to work together toward a solution that is desirable for both parties. I help couples find this solution by working with them collaboratively to strengthen or rebuild a strong emotional bond between them.
I can help with couples therapy in a number of different areas, such as:
• Putting an end to chronic conflict and fighting
• Increasing intimacy and closeness
• Depression or anxiety disorders
• Improving relationship success
• Recovering from traumatic experiences
• Pre-marital counseling
• Dealing with infidelity
• Improving your sexual relationship
To help my clients overcome these challenges, I practice what is known as emotionally focused couples therapy (EFT). EFT is a structured couples therapy that helps shift a couple's negative interactions into positive ones. Couples often get caught in negative cycles that eat away at intimacy and a sense of having a loving and trusting relationship. These cycles tend to be self-reinforcing and keep you trapped in hurtful interactions.
Emotionally focused couples therapy helps identify these cycles, stop them, and create new ones so you can feel close and connected again. This emotional security and sense of comfort is what ultimately allows a couple to resolve conflict, communicate better, have more fulfilling sex, and live happier lives.
EFT was formulated in the 1980's by Sue Johnson and Les Greenberg and is based on a theory of love stemming from John Bowlby's attachment theory. A substantial body of research outlining the effectiveness of EFT now exists. Research studies find that 70-75% of couples move from distress to recovery and approximately 90% show significant improvements. It is used with traditional and non-traditional couples, including same sex couples.
For more information on how we can work together to help you build a stronger relationship, please contact me.