What is Gottman Method Couples Therapy?

Gottman Therapy is a method and approach to couples therapy that includes a thorough assessment of the couple’s relationship, and integrates research-based interventions. The goals of Gottman Method Couples Therapy are to “disarm conflicting verbal communication; increase intimacy, respect, and affection; remove barriers that create a feeling of stagnancy; and create a heightened sense of empathy and understanding within the context of the relationship.”

How Does Gottman Therapy Work?

The therapist looks at the relationship, interactions and communication patterns between the couples and intervenes to help improve them.

The three main elements to the Gottman method are:

  • Assessment: This process involves both joint and individual interviews with the couple.
  • Framework During a conversation between the couples and therapist, they decide together on the sessions’ duration and frequency of the therapy process moving forward.
  • Intervention.

What are the steps in Gottman method? Gottman developed a new model for solving your solvable problems in an intimate relationship.

  • Step 1: Soften Your Start-Up. How a conversation starts predicts how it will end. …
  • Step 2: Learn to Send and Receive Repair Attempts. …
  • Step 3: Soothe Yourself and Each Other. …
  • Step 4: Compromise. …
  • Step 5: Address Emotional Injuries.

Couples learn to replace negative conflict patterns with positive interactions and to repair past hurts. Interventions designed to increase closeness and intimacy are used to improve friendship, deepen emotional connection, and create changes which enhances the couples shared goals. Relapse prevention is also addressed.

Is Gottman Method Couples Therapy effective?

Dr. John Gottman, a psychologist, spent 40 years researching over 3,000 couples to see the patterns in happy marriages and unhappy marriages. Based on his research findings he discovered many things about relationships and how to help couples who are distanced and disconnected. Many couples benefit from the Gottman approach. Gottman therapists are able to predict the success of a relationship with 94% accuracy.

This is reason it is one of the most popular types of therapy for people who want to improve their relationships.

Research has shown that Gottman therapy is also effective for treating same-sex couples.

How Long Does Gottman Therapy last

The length of treatment depends on the severity of the problem that is being presented by the couple.

The average length of treatment is from 6 to 12 sessions and this includes assessment. However, this process can be longer if you are dealing with betrayal and affairs.

Gottman Method Couples Therapy At The Relationship Suite

At the Relationship Suite in New York City and New Jersey, we are experts in couples therapy and relationship counseling. Whether you’re a new couple, encountering ongoing setbacks in your marriage, or navigating a breakup, we are here to enhance the experience of love in your life.

For our clients who experience frequent conflict and disconnection, Gottman Therapy can help them peel back the tension to identify the core wounds keeping them stuck in negative interactions. And for individuals, our therapists are likely to incorporate elements of the Gottman method to enhance self-awareness and security.

There is more to your fights than just immediate responses—at the root of your feelings is a desire for connection. Gottman Therapy allows you and your partner to escape unhealthy patterns and develop a new and improved bond. Working together in therapy, we can help heal your relationship.

Let Us Help You Build Secure, Loving Connections

At The Relationship Suite, our clinicians in New York and New Jersey use The Gottman Method to help couples and individuals overcome conflict and achieve satisfaction in their relationships.

To schedule a free consultation with one of our online Gottman therapists, please call (917) 273 – 8836 or contact us via our site.