At Chapter, we use the evidence-based Gottman Method to focus on understanding, communication, and restoring your relationships. Read more about our practice and book your free initial consultation below.
Improved communication: Marriage & couples counseling can help couples learn how to effectively communicate with one another, which can help reduce conflict and increase understanding and connection.
Increased intimacy and closeness: Counseling can help couples rediscover and reaffirm their love and affection for one another, which can lead to increased intimacy and closeness.
Resolution of conflicts: Counseling can provide a safe space for couples to discuss and resolve conflicts, which can improve the overall health and happiness of the relationship.
Improved problem-solving skills: Marriage counseling can teach couples how to effectively solve problems together, which can help them navigate challenges in their relationship more effectively.
Greater understanding of one another: Counseling can help couples better understand each other's needs, wants, and perspectives, which can strengthen their bond.
Increased relationship satisfaction: By addressing and resolving issues in their relationship, couples may experience increased satisfaction with their relationship overall.
Healing from infidelity: Counseling provides as safe space, which can help couples get through the crisis, rebuild trust, and recommit to one another.
It's important to note that marriage counseling is not a quick fix, and it takes time and effort to see progress. However, with patience and commitment, couples can benefit greatly from the process.
The Gottman Method focuses on building and maintaining a strong, healthy relationship through improving communication, managing conflict, and increasing intimacy.
Here is a general overview of the process of marriage counseling using the Gottman Method:
Initial assessment: The counseling process typically begins with an initial assessment, where the therapist will ask questions about the couple's history, current concerns, and relationship goals. This assessment helps the therapist better understand the couple's needs and tailor treatment to their specific situation.
Building a strong foundation: The Gottman Method emphasizes the importance of building a strong emotional connection and foundation in the relationship. The therapist will work with the couple to identify their strengths and areas for improvement, and help them learn skills to build a deeper emotional connection.
Improving communication: The Gottman Method focuses on improving communication through active listening, empathy, and understanding. The therapist will work with the couple to help them better understand each other's perspectives and needs, and teach them how to communicate effectively and resolve conflicts in a healthy way.
Managing conflict: The Gottman Method teaches couples how to manage conflicts in a healthy way, using skills such as "repair attempts" to deescalate arguments and resolve issues. The therapist will work with the couple to identify patterns of conflict in their relationship and help them learn how to manage conflicts effectively.
Strengthening the bond: The Gottman Method emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong emotional connection in the relationship. The therapist will work with the couple to help them build intimacy and strengthen their bond through activities such as shared meaning-making and appreciation and gratitude exercises.
Marriage counseling involves weekly sessions with your therapist, and may also include homework assignments to practice skills learned in session.