Couples who enter into Gottman Method Couples Therapy begin with an assessment process that then informs the therapeutic framework and intervention.
The first 3 sessions of Gottman Method Couples Therapy serve as the assessment phase of treatment. From here, couples will attend all future sessions together. The therapist and the couple will collaborate in creating treatment goals and identifying an effective course of therapy.
The first session consists of an interview with both partners which allows the therapist to better understand the current strengths of the relationship, as well as identifying existing challenges and provides a comprehensive history as to how the relationship has developed over time. After the first session, both partners will be asked to complete a series of online questionnaires that provide further insight into the relationship and assist in creating a road map for counseling based on the identified needs of both partners.
After the initial session and completion of relevant assessments, both partners will be asked to attend an individual session with the therapist in order to increase the therapist’s knowledge of each partner individually. This provides an opportunity to gain an understanding of each partner’s personal history, while also examining how each individual views their relationship.
The therapeutic process will focus on building further communication skills to better manage conflict within the relationship, while also working on increasing positive interactions, intimacy, and emotional connection. Couples will work on identifying areas of shared meaning that will guide the couple throughout the years to ensure a stable, fulfilling, long-lasting relationship.
A conjoint session, followed by individual interviews with each partner are conducted. Couples complete questionnaires and then receive detailed feedback on their relationship.
