Gottman Method
Gottman Method
Transforming Relationships through Science and Compassion
At Comox Valley Counselling, we believe that strong, healthy relationships are the foundation of a fulfilling life. Our Gottman Method Couples Therapy program is designed to help couples build and maintain a deep, lasting connection. Backed by over 40 years of research, the Gottman Method offers practical, science-based tools to enhance communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen your bond.
What is the Gottman Method?
The Gottman Method is a structured, goal-oriented form of couples therapy based on the research of Dr. John Gottman and Dr. Julie Schwartz Gottman. This method focuses on increasing respect, affection, and closeness, breaking through and resolving conflict when couples feel stuck, generating greater understanding between partners, and keeping conflict discussions calm. The Gottman Method is known for its emphasis on building a “Sound Relationship House,” a model that incorporates key principles and skills essential for healthy, resilient relationships.
Why Choose the Gottman Method?
Evidence-Based Approach
The Gottman Method is grounded in extensive research and clinical practice. Dr. John Gottman’s studies, spanning over four decades, have identified the behaviors and interactions that make relationships succeed or fail. This evidence-based approach ensures that the strategies and tools used in therapy are proven to be effective.
Comprehensive Assessment
The Gottman Method begins with a thorough assessment of your relationship. This includes questionnaires and a detailed analysis of your interactions, allowing us to tailor the therapy to your specific needs and goals. This comprehensive understanding forms the foundation for a personalized therapy plan.
Practical Tools and Techniques
The Gottman Method provides practical, actionable tools that you can apply in your daily life. From communication skills to conflict resolution strategies, these techniques are designed to create immediate and lasting improvements in your relationship.
Focus on Strengths
This method emphasizes building on the strengths of your relationship. By identifying and amplifying positive interactions, the Gottman Method helps you create a more resilient and joyful connection.
Holistic Approach
The Gottman Method addresses all aspects of a relationship, from friendship and intimacy to managing conflict and creating shared meaning. This holistic approach ensures that every area of your relationship is nurtured and strengthened.
Our Gottman Methods
Couples Therapy
Our Gottman Method Couples Therapy sessions are designed to help you and your partner build a stronger, more fulfilling relationship. These sessions focus on enhancing communication, resolving conflicts, and deepening your emotional connection. Whether you’re facing specific challenges or looking to enhance your relationship, our therapists are here to support you.
Intensive Couples Retreats
For couples seeking a more immersive experience, we offer intensive retreats based on the Gottman Method. These retreats provide a concentrated period of therapy over several days, allowing you to make significant progress in a short amount of time. Retreats are ideal for couples wanting to jumpstart their relationship transformation or address urgent issues.
Workshops and Seminars
Our workshops and seminars offer an introduction to the Gottman Method and its core principles. These interactive sessions provide valuable insights and practical tools that you can immediately apply to your relationship. Topics include effective communication, conflict resolution, building intimacy, and creating a shared vision for your future.
Online Therapy Options
Understanding the demands of modern life, we offer online Gottman Method therapy sessions. These virtual sessions provide the same level of support and guidance as in-person therapy, allowing you to work on your relationship from the comfort of your own home.
How the Gottman Method Works
Assessment Phase
The Gottman Method begins with a thorough assessment to understand the dynamics of your relationship. This phase includes:
- Questionnaires: Comprehensive surveys to assess various aspects of your relationship, including friendship, intimacy, conflict management, and shared goals.
- Couples Interview: A detailed conversation with your therapist to discuss your relationship history, current challenges, and therapy goals.
- Interaction Analysis: Observing and analyzing your interactions to identify patterns and areas for improvement.
Therapeutic Interventions
Based on the assessment, we develop a customized therapy plan tailored to your unique needs and goals. Key interventions include:
- Building Love Maps: Enhancing your understanding of each other’s inner worlds, including hopes, dreams, and fears.
- Nurturing Fondness and Admiration: Strengthening the positive aspects of your relationship by expressing appreciation and affection.
- Turning Toward Instead of Away: Encouraging small, positive interactions that build trust and connection.
- Managing Conflict: Teaching effective conflict resolution strategies to handle disagreements constructively.
- Creating Shared Meaning: Helping you develop shared goals, rituals, and values that strengthen your bond.
- Maintaining a Positive Perspective: Focusing on positive interactions and building resilience against negativity.
Ongoing Support
Our commitment to your relationship doesn’t end with therapy sessions. We provide ongoing support and resources to help you maintain and strengthen your relationship over time. This includes follow-up sessions, workshops, and access to a wealth of Gottman Institute materials and tools.
Benefits of Gottman Method Couples Therapy
Improved Communication
Learn to communicate more effectively, ensuring that both partners feel heard and understood. This leads to fewer misunderstandings and more productive discussions.
Enhanced Intimacy and Connection
Rekindle the emotional and physical intimacy in your relationship. The Gottman Method helps you build a deeper connection and keep the romance alive.
Effective Conflict Resolution
Develop skills to manage and resolve conflicts constructively. Learn to navigate disagreements without escalation, fostering a more peaceful and supportive relationship.
Greater Relationship Satisfaction
Experience increased satisfaction and happiness in your relationship. By addressing issues and building on strengths, you create a more fulfilling partnership.
Resilience Against Challenges
Build resilience to weather the inevitable challenges of life together. The Gottman Method equips you with tools to face difficulties as a team, strengthening your bond.
Get Started with the Gottman Method Today
Are you ready to transform your relationship and build a stronger, more fulfilling connection with your partner? Contact Comox Valley Counselling today to learn more about our Gottman Method Couples Therapy services and to schedule a consultation. Our compassionate and experienced therapists are here to guide you every step of the way.
We Help You Navigate The Ups
and Downs of Life.
Other Approaches
- Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT)
- Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT)
- Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy
- The Satir Model Of Transformational Systemic Change
- Somatic Approach
- Mindfullness
- Gottman Method
- Narrative Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) Polyvagel
- Counselling (General Thoughts & Approach/Steps)
- Leadership Development (Therapeutic Coaching)
- Nature-Based Therapy (NBT)
- Qualified Clinical Supervision
