At Steffen Counseling Services (SCS), we believe that every relationship has immense potential for growth and happiness. To help clients achieve these goals, one of the many approaches we integrate into our couples therapy sessions is Gottman Couples Therapy. Gottman theory originated right here in Washington State, as a product of over 30 years of research. The Gottmans have since become internationally famous, and their techniques are taught throughout graduate programs across the globe!
What is Gottman Couples Therapy?
Developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, Gottman Couples Therapy is a research-based approach that aims to strengthen and repair relationships by enhancing communication, friendship, and conflict resolution skills. The Gottmans have spent decades studying relationships and have identified key predictors of relationship success or failure, allowing therapists to guide couples towards healthier, more fulfilling partnerships.
How do our therapists use Gottman Therapy to help our clients?
1. Assessment and Interventions:
Our therapists begin by assessing various aspects of the couple’s relationship using the Gottman Relationship Checkup, a comprehensive tool designed to evaluate the strengths and challenges a couple may be experiencing. This assessment provides valuable insights into areas such as emotional closeness, conflict resolution style, and overall relationship satisfaction. Based on the assessment results, our therapists customize treatment plans with targeted interventions to address the unique needs of each couple. These interventions draw on proven techniques developed by the Gottmans over their extensive research, such as:
- Strengthening Friendship and Positive Affection: Therapists guide couples to revive and nurture their friendship, rediscovering the joy and support they once shared. This helps create a solid foundation for addressing conflicts and stressors.
- Improving Communication: Our therapists teach couples effective communication techniques, focusing on active listening, expressing emotions constructively, and validating each other’s perspectives. By enhancing communication skills, couples develop a greater understanding and connection, resulting in improved conflict resolution.
- Managing Conflict Constructively: Conflicts are an inevitable part of every relationship, but Gottman Therapy equips couples with specific strategies to engage in healthy and productive discussions. Therapists guide partners to shift from destructive patterns to constructive approaches, fostering mutual respect, compromise, and resolution.
2. Developing Shared Meaning:
Gottman Couples Therapy emphasizes the importance of creating a shared vision and meaning within the relationship. Our therapists assist couples in identifying shared values, goals, and aspirations, helping them forge a deeper understanding and connection.
3. Building Skills for Life-Long Growth:
One of the extraordinary aspects of Gottman Couples Therapy is its focus on empowering couples to continue growing and nurturing their relationship long after therapy ends. Our therapists provide strategies and tools that couples can implement in their daily lives, fostering continued growth, intimacy, and happiness.
At SCS, we firmly believe that every couple deserves a chance to build a thriving partnership. Through the utilization of Gottman Couples Therapy, our therapists guide couples on a transformative journey towards improved communication, rejuvenated friendship, and profound love. Whether you are seeking therapy to overcome relationship challenges or simply enhance an already strong bond, our compassionate and experienced therapists are here to support you every step of the way. Get ready to unlock the power of positive change and embark on a journey of long lasting relationship satisfaction!