Understanding the path forward. Practical, compassionate insights into how couples therapy works — and how to make it work for you
Originally published August 5, 2013Updated: February 5, 2025 The Four Horsemen of Relationships – criticism, defensiveness, stonewalling, and contempt – are relationship-destroying behaviors identified by Dr. John Gottman through decades of research. Understanding these patterns…
Some couples rarely fight—but feel miles apart. Others argue constantly—and still ache for closeness.Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) helps couples reconnect beneath the surface, where emotion drives everything. This article explores how Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy…
A marriage counseling assessment is a comprehensive and organized way for a couples therapist to learn more about you and your marriage. At Couples Therapy Inc., we believe a thorough assessment is essential to effective…
What Is Couples Therapy for One? Think of couples therapy for one (also called Hopeful Spouse Coaching) as a way to improve your relationship, even if your partner doesn’t come along. Research shows that learning…
Looking to strengthen your relationship? The Gottman Method might be exactly what you and your partner need. This proven approach to couples therapy has helped thousands of couples build stronger, happier relationships through science-based techniques….
by Catherine Pfuntner One challenge to integrate into substance abuse treatment programs is couples and family support. You may even hear a lot of substance abuse counselors say that you can’t do couples therapy because…
My husband refuses to talk about problems. I think that our relationship needs some serious help but my husband doesn’t think that there’s a problem. In fact, he says that talking about problems just makes…
by Catherine Pfuntner We’ve talked elsewhere about the nuts and bolts approach of the Gottman Method and the methods of the marathon couples therapy format, including two consecutive days of intensive therapy. We’ve also discussed…
Introduction: The Cascade Concept Marriages often break down in predictable ways. When we understand these patterns, it becomes easier for both therapists and couples to spot the warning signs early—and step in before things fall…
First published February 18, 2018Updated: Jan 17, 2024 Gottman Rapoport: An Intervention in Couples Therapy One night over dinner, John Gottman was discussing his work with other renowned thinkers in psychology. His discussion reminded one…
Every couple faces conflicts, but some issues seem to defy resolution, resurfacing over and over again. Renowned relationship expert Dr. John Gottman calls these “perpetual problems” — chronic disagreements rooted in fundamental differences between partners.1…
What is the Zeigarnik Effect?
If you’re considering couples therapy, you likely have one pressing question: What will this cost? While you can find basic price ranges online, understanding the real cost of couples therapy involves more than just the…
Should I choose a male marriage counselor near me or a female counselor in my area? In choosing a counselor, the marriage and its needs take priority. When selecting a couples therapist, there are certain…
Dr. John Gottman’s extensive research spanning over four decades has intricately categorized couples into five distinct types. Among these, three are considered relatively successful and adaptive—Conflict-Avoiding, Volatile, and Validating—while the remaining two, Hostile and Hostile-Detached,…
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