Approach

My work with couples focuses on examining strengths and weaknesses, identifying maladaptive patterns that are causing disruption in the marriage, and then creating new and more productive patterns that result in a more successful and happier family life.

Utilizing a specialized couples treatment approach, I provide my clients with opportunities to change their perspective, communication patterns, and thought processes throughout the sessions. Couples learn tools that they practice and apply at home for immediate results.

Phone Intake

Typically, I begin with a 15-minute complimentary phone call. I use this time to speak with one person within the couple. This initial discussion is very useful and helps us to determine whether this is the right time to take our next steps. It is best to speak with one person at a time over the phone for safety and to avoid triggering the couple on the phone. If next steps are agreed upon, there is plenty of time for both parties to have an equal share of presenting their lens.

Assessment

I provide a four hour assessment, completed in two two-hour sessions, over a period of two consecutive weeks. At the end of the assessment, I will share an analysis of the couples’ patterns and make specific recommendations for change. At this point, couples will have the opportunity to make a choice: couples can decide if they would like to commit to ongoing sessions for a minimum of three months or reconnect at a later date.

Treatment

Our ongoing sessions occur every other week for two hours. During our sessions, couples will review their detrimental relationship patterns and explore new behavioral patterns. Our work occurs both in the office and in-between sessions, and includes homework assignments, so that long-term changes become established. Couples will make gains when they work at their newly identified skills. Long-term progress is achieved once skills become automatically incorporated into daily life.

At the conclusion of the first three months of treatment (and every three months thereafter), couples will collectively review their progress towards goals and determine next steps regarding treatment and/or their relationship.