Photo of Karina Tovar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karina Tovar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I practice using a holistic lens, goal oriented mindset, social justice framework, transparency, feminist lens, spirituality (for those interested), multicultural, solution focused, CBT, Gottman method, harm reduction, and values work.
Clients that enjoy working with me are multicultural clients who are seeking a safe, non-judgmental environment. I provide a safe and respectful space for clients to express themselves, to cry, to laugh and to be their authentic self. My passion is to help people of color embrace their identity, break generational barriers, and live healthier lives. Areas of interest: seeking therapy for the first time (welcome!), multicultural/first generation experiences, trauma, navigating dating experiences, ADHD, depression, men of color, trauma work, boundary work, making difficult decisions, working on confidence, body image/body neutrality.
I practice using a holistic lens, goal oriented mindset, social justice framework, transparency, feminist lens, spirituality (for those interested), multicultural, solution focused, CBT, Gottman method, harm reduction, and values work.
Clients that enjoy working with me are multicultural clients who are seeking a safe, non-judgmental environment. I provide a safe and respectful space for clients to express themselves, to cry, to laugh and to be their authentic self. My passion is to help people of color embrace their identity, break generational barriers, and live healthier lives. Areas of interest: seeking therapy for the first time (welcome!), multicultural/first generation experiences, trauma, navigating dating experiences, ADHD, depression, men of color, trauma work, boundary work, making difficult decisions, working on confidence, body image/body neutrality.
(872) 253-7815 View (872) 253-7815
Photo of Taylor Walker, EdS, LCPC , Counselor
Taylor Walker
Counselor, EdS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
I use an eclectic approach, integrating elements of psychodynamic and attachment theories, CBT, ACT, the Gottman method, and mindfulness approaches.
I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship or intimacy concerns, familial stressors, and life transitions. I enjoy working with adults of all ages, though my specialty is working with adults going through life changes. These life changes often include but are not limited to career shifts, relationship changes, motherhood and and other life adjustments. I enjoy working on self-awareness, managing anxiety and depression, creating goals and making change, communication and relationships, boundary setting, and self-care. My hope is that clients gain self-awareness and feel empowered to make change.
I use an eclectic approach, integrating elements of psychodynamic and attachment theories, CBT, ACT, the Gottman method, and mindfulness approaches.
I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship or intimacy concerns, familial stressors, and life transitions. I enjoy working with adults of all ages, though my specialty is working with adults going through life changes. These life changes often include but are not limited to career shifts, relationship changes, motherhood and and other life adjustments. I enjoy working on self-awareness, managing anxiety and depression, creating goals and making change, communication and relationships, boundary setting, and self-care. My hope is that clients gain self-awareness and feel empowered to make change.
(872) 395-4355 View (872) 395-4355
Photo of Melissa Martin, LCPC
Melissa Martin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
Depending on the needs of the client, I use diverse modalities such as psychodynamic psychotherapy, ACT, CBT, client-centered, trauma-informed care, dialectical behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, the Gottman Method, exposure work, and symptom management.
I am passionate about working with adults who are dealing with challenges including but not limited to: identifying and healing from trauma, identity exploration, interpersonal conflict, relationship with food and body, addictions, life transitions, eating disorders, mood disorders, stress management, and ADHD. The goal of my work with clients is for them to increase authenticity and vulnerability within the therapeutic relationship first, then translate that success to their lives outside of therapy. I empower clients with coping skills and provide a safe space for learning effective communication of and connection to emotions.
Depending on the needs of the client, I use diverse modalities such as psychodynamic psychotherapy, ACT, CBT, client-centered, trauma-informed care, dialectical behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, the Gottman Method, exposure work, and symptom management.
I am passionate about working with adults who are dealing with challenges including but not limited to: identifying and healing from trauma, identity exploration, interpersonal conflict, relationship with food and body, addictions, life transitions, eating disorders, mood disorders, stress management, and ADHD. The goal of my work with clients is for them to increase authenticity and vulnerability within the therapeutic relationship first, then translate that success to their lives outside of therapy. I empower clients with coping skills and provide a safe space for learning effective communication of and connection to emotions.
(312) 465-4765 View (312) 465-4765
Photo of Rachel Lehr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Lehr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I am also certified in the Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Level 1.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who obtained my Masters in Social Work from Loyola University of Chicago. I am passionate about working with individuals and partnerships to assist them in uncovering strengths and building skills to navigate relationships with themselves and others. I especially enjoy working with folks who are pursuing therapy for the first time. I became a clinical social worker because of my fascination for the human experience and all its nuances. I am honored to walk alongside folks in the space that therapy creates that doesn’t exist anywhere else. When you sit down for a session, you are the sole focus.
I am also certified in the Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Level 1.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who obtained my Masters in Social Work from Loyola University of Chicago. I am passionate about working with individuals and partnerships to assist them in uncovering strengths and building skills to navigate relationships with themselves and others. I especially enjoy working with folks who are pursuing therapy for the first time. I became a clinical social worker because of my fascination for the human experience and all its nuances. I am honored to walk alongside folks in the space that therapy creates that doesn’t exist anywhere else. When you sit down for a session, you are the sole focus.
(708) 726-0932 View (708) 726-0932
Photo of Ellen Cerasale, LCPC, Counselor
Ellen Cerasale
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I've completed training in Levels 1, 2, & 3 of Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
Therapy can be a powerful tool for positive change no matter what's going on in your life. A calm, protected space to work through challenging relationship dynamics could provide just the relief you're needing. Maybe you and your partner are in a rut and feeling disconnected. I can give supportive tools and unbiased guidance to help strengthen connection, improve communication, and set healthy boundaries. You deserve to enhance the relationship you have with yourself and those you love most.
I've completed training in Levels 1, 2, & 3 of Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
Therapy can be a powerful tool for positive change no matter what's going on in your life. A calm, protected space to work through challenging relationship dynamics could provide just the relief you're needing. Maybe you and your partner are in a rut and feeling disconnected. I can give supportive tools and unbiased guidance to help strengthen connection, improve communication, and set healthy boundaries. You deserve to enhance the relationship you have with yourself and those you love most.
(872) 401-6507 View (872) 401-6507
Photo of Lutfi Alkaddour, PsyD, Psychologist
Lutfi Alkaddour
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60606
Not accepting new clients
I completed L1-L3 Trainings in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
Every person deserves to be valued for who they are and where they are in life. Life challenges can lead us to feel disconnected from ourselves. There can be great value in reclaiming our entire selves, with all we have been through and currently face, while stepping into the unknown. Being truly witnessed can help us reconcile our realities, regain hope, and remember our gifts. I wish to honor your life by offering a warm, accepting haven for you to exist, unpack, discover, heal, and co-create your life in light of who you are and the unique opportunities and challenges you experience. You deserve to feel at home with yourself.
I completed L1-L3 Trainings in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
Every person deserves to be valued for who they are and where they are in life. Life challenges can lead us to feel disconnected from ourselves. There can be great value in reclaiming our entire selves, with all we have been through and currently face, while stepping into the unknown. Being truly witnessed can help us reconcile our realities, regain hope, and remember our gifts. I wish to honor your life by offering a warm, accepting haven for you to exist, unpack, discover, heal, and co-create your life in light of who you are and the unique opportunities and challenges you experience. You deserve to feel at home with yourself.
(224) 207-4028 View (224) 207-4028
Photo of Xinzhu Yu, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Xinzhu Yu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I employ strength-based, systemic, and relational approaches in therapy and utilize an integrative model of psychodynamic, narrative, CBT, ACT, ERP, DBT, IFS, ADHD management, Gottman Method, and trauma-informed care.
I work with individual adults and couples and am passionate about serving marginalized communities through a social justice advocacy lens. As a former “parachute kid” who started living abroad on my own as a teenager, I understand the complications of establishing one’s cultural identity while struggling to find meaning or belonging. I have experience working in different mental health settings with varying levels of needs, ranging from stress, trauma, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy, identity development, racial and cultural issues, neurodivergent issues, to suicidal ideation and/or past attempts.
I employ strength-based, systemic, and relational approaches in therapy and utilize an integrative model of psychodynamic, narrative, CBT, ACT, ERP, DBT, IFS, ADHD management, Gottman Method, and trauma-informed care.
I work with individual adults and couples and am passionate about serving marginalized communities through a social justice advocacy lens. As a former “parachute kid” who started living abroad on my own as a teenager, I understand the complications of establishing one’s cultural identity while struggling to find meaning or belonging. I have experience working in different mental health settings with varying levels of needs, ranging from stress, trauma, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy, identity development, racial and cultural issues, neurodivergent issues, to suicidal ideation and/or past attempts.
(312) 257-3851 View (312) 257-3851
Photo of Katerina Fager, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Katerina Fager
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Do you feel disconnected, deal with infidelity, or poor communication? I help individuals and couples to develop some new skills and new ways to communicate and grow to create more satisfying relationships. I have completed Level 3 Clinical Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and use Gottman Method in my work with couples. This method is designed to help teach specific tools to deepen friendship and intimacy in your relationship. I believe that although each individual is unique, everyone has the ability to change, heal and move forward. Therapy can help you to feel better and have a better relationship.
Do you feel disconnected, deal with infidelity, or poor communication? I help individuals and couples to develop some new skills and new ways to communicate and grow to create more satisfying relationships. I have completed Level 3 Clinical Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and use Gottman Method in my work with couples. This method is designed to help teach specific tools to deepen friendship and intimacy in your relationship. I believe that although each individual is unique, everyone has the ability to change, heal and move forward. Therapy can help you to feel better and have a better relationship.
(773) 295-1693 View (773) 295-1693
Photo of Lee Rotem, MA, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lee Rotem
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604
Are you a parent experiencing identity issues? Do you feel weighed down by societal and familial expectations and affected by emotional labor imbalances, big life changes, or burnout? I believe that a warm and collaborative therapy space is the essential for self-reflection and for finding courage to make changes, while feeling supported and seen. I integrate a psychodynamic lens with a solution-focused process to achieve your goals. I am a certified in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and practice this as well as Emotionally Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Are you a parent experiencing identity issues? Do you feel weighed down by societal and familial expectations and affected by emotional labor imbalances, big life changes, or burnout? I believe that a warm and collaborative therapy space is the essential for self-reflection and for finding courage to make changes, while feeling supported and seen. I integrate a psychodynamic lens with a solution-focused process to achieve your goals. I am a certified in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and practice this as well as Emotionally Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(630) 349-7687 View (630) 349-7687
Photo of Antonina (Nina) Lunetta, MA, LCPC, NCC, IMH-E
Antonina (Nina) Lunetta
MA, LCPC, NCC, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
I speak Spanish, & I use a combination of neuroscience, holistic health, the Gottman Method, DBT, CBT, PCIT, & psychoanalytical theories to help my clients, couples & families live up to their full potential.
Relationships! We all have them, and at times, we all struggle with navigating them. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I offer a relatable & validating space where I assist my clients in improving direct & healthy communication, setting personal and professional goals and boundaries, and identifying, processing, and addressing life obstacles as they arise. And hopefully a touch of humor too ;D Now accepting new clients - email for soonest availability. To read more about Antonina, go to: www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release-service/495366
I speak Spanish, & I use a combination of neuroscience, holistic health, the Gottman Method, DBT, CBT, PCIT, & psychoanalytical theories to help my clients, couples & families live up to their full potential.
Relationships! We all have them, and at times, we all struggle with navigating them. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I offer a relatable & validating space where I assist my clients in improving direct & healthy communication, setting personal and professional goals and boundaries, and identifying, processing, and addressing life obstacles as they arise. And hopefully a touch of humor too ;D Now accepting new clients - email for soonest availability. To read more about Antonina, go to: www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release-service/495366
(312) 517-2940 View (312) 517-2940
Photo of James Chamerlik, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
James Chamerlik
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I provide an affirmative safe space for both individuals, as well as couples, as a Level 1 Gottman Method Therapist.
As a kink-aware therapist and one that has experienced with polyamory and consensual non-monogamy, I hope to provide support to marginalized communities that face stigma, or that feel left out. I care deeply about social justice and work hard to dismantle oppression, as a vocal LGBTQ+ and feminist ally. As someone that became a therapist later in life, I apply my diverse experiences to my practice so that I may be more able to help you along your unique journey, or to uncover and address barriers that may prevent you from meeting personal goals or living a more authentic life.
I provide an affirmative safe space for both individuals, as well as couples, as a Level 1 Gottman Method Therapist.
As a kink-aware therapist and one that has experienced with polyamory and consensual non-monogamy, I hope to provide support to marginalized communities that face stigma, or that feel left out. I care deeply about social justice and work hard to dismantle oppression, as a vocal LGBTQ+ and feminist ally. As someone that became a therapist later in life, I apply my diverse experiences to my practice so that I may be more able to help you along your unique journey, or to uncover and address barriers that may prevent you from meeting personal goals or living a more authentic life.
(872) 239-3824 View (872) 239-3824
Photo of Kim Vander Griend, AM, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Vander Griend
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Couples Work: Completed Level 1 &2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Transitions to Parenthood/Marriage, Pre-marital counseling,Communication Issues, Family Conflict Management, Trust Issues, Individual Work: Maternal Mental Health, Infertility, Pregnancy, Depression,Anxiety,Relationship Challenges,Executive Coaching,Traumatic Experiences,Grief.
The decision to seek therapy can be difficult, as it's hard to reach out for help. My goal is to make therapy feel less overwhelming through a collaborative partnership where together we identify your challenges and develop healthy coping skills. My style, rooted in warmth and humor, utilizes the therapeutic relationship to explore positive change and growth. Customized feedback and a range of strategies are provided drawing from evidenced based research and years of clinical expertise. I specialize in individual and couples therapy uniquely focusing on enhancing relationships, healing from the past, and thriving individually.
Couples Work: Completed Level 1 &2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Transitions to Parenthood/Marriage, Pre-marital counseling,Communication Issues, Family Conflict Management, Trust Issues, Individual Work: Maternal Mental Health, Infertility, Pregnancy, Depression,Anxiety,Relationship Challenges,Executive Coaching,Traumatic Experiences,Grief.
The decision to seek therapy can be difficult, as it's hard to reach out for help. My goal is to make therapy feel less overwhelming through a collaborative partnership where together we identify your challenges and develop healthy coping skills. My style, rooted in warmth and humor, utilizes the therapeutic relationship to explore positive change and growth. Customized feedback and a range of strategies are provided drawing from evidenced based research and years of clinical expertise. I specialize in individual and couples therapy uniquely focusing on enhancing relationships, healing from the past, and thriving individually.
(773) 492-8422 View (773) 492-8422
Photo of Alexandra Bosco Luger, PsyD, Psychologist
Alexandra Bosco Luger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607
I completed all 3 Gottman Method Couples Therapy trainings and I use Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my clinical work.
Please visit my website for more information about my practice: www.DrAlexandraLuger.com
I completed all 3 Gottman Method Couples Therapy trainings and I use Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my clinical work.
Please visit my website for more information about my practice: www.DrAlexandraLuger.com
(646) 362-3862 View (646) 362-3862
Photo of Dr. Julie Thomas, PhD, LCPC, NCC
Dr. Julie Thomas
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
I am trained at the highest level in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and have received advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT).
If you're struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, or if you're facing a big life decision, I can help! We'll work together to help you face these challenges head on. I have advanced training in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship concerns. My approach is strengths-based and designed to help my clients identify and remove barriers keeping them from living their best lives possible.
I am trained at the highest level in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and have received advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT).
If you're struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, or if you're facing a big life decision, I can help! We'll work together to help you face these challenges head on. I have advanced training in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship concerns. My approach is strengths-based and designed to help my clients identify and remove barriers keeping them from living their best lives possible.
(872) 245-0741 View (872) 245-0741
Photo of Aaron Testard, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aaron Testard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I work with couples using the Gottman method, and I use several tools that I have learned over the years to address the particular needs of each client I work with.
Do you feel lost, questioning who you are or where you're going with no easy answers? Sometimes life takes an unexpected turn, we hit a bottom, or we just realize that something in us is different...or something must change. Such times of confusion and crisis are often the meeting point for our work together. They are also openings to self-discovery and real change. I listen deeply for what you want, develop a relationship of trust, and work WITH you to establish the clarity and direction you need.
I work with couples using the Gottman method, and I use several tools that I have learned over the years to address the particular needs of each client I work with.
Do you feel lost, questioning who you are or where you're going with no easy answers? Sometimes life takes an unexpected turn, we hit a bottom, or we just realize that something in us is different...or something must change. Such times of confusion and crisis are often the meeting point for our work together. They are also openings to self-discovery and real change. I listen deeply for what you want, develop a relationship of trust, and work WITH you to establish the clarity and direction you need.
(312) 467-7543 View (312) 467-7543
Photo of Meg Doster, ALMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Meg Doster
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
Waitlist for new clients
With couples, I am trained in Gottman Method and integrate Emotional Focused Therapy as well.
I work with individuals and couples wanting to work on anxiety, depression, family and relationship issues, conflict and communication, relational and religious trauma, grief, and low self-esteem. But what this really looks and feels like "people-pleasing" tendencies, shame, anger, fear of the unknown, and difficulty opening up with yourself and others. I am passionate about helping clients navigate these difficulties and helping them become unstuck.
With couples, I am trained in Gottman Method and integrate Emotional Focused Therapy as well.
I work with individuals and couples wanting to work on anxiety, depression, family and relationship issues, conflict and communication, relational and religious trauma, grief, and low self-esteem. But what this really looks and feels like "people-pleasing" tendencies, shame, anger, fear of the unknown, and difficulty opening up with yourself and others. I am passionate about helping clients navigate these difficulties and helping them become unstuck.
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Photo of Carolyn Raitt, LCPC, Counselor
Carolyn Raitt
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in DBT, CBT, ACT, ERP, Mindfulness, the Gottman Method, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
To schedule a session, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh I am a queer-identified psychotherapist and have experience helping individuals with a wide variety of presenting issues, including depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. In addition, I specialize in working with eating and/or body image issues, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and adolescent & young adult life transitions & identity development.
I have extensive training in DBT, CBT, ACT, ERP, Mindfulness, the Gottman Method, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
To schedule a session, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh I am a queer-identified psychotherapist and have experience helping individuals with a wide variety of presenting issues, including depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. In addition, I specialize in working with eating and/or body image issues, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and adolescent & young adult life transitions & identity development.
(312) 262-3704 View (312) 262-3704
Photo of Lori Yi Long - Lotus Root Counseling , MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lotus Root Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
Our couple therapists mainly use Gottman Method.
We're a trauma-informed, culturally-sensitive mental health counseling group for multicultural, Asian, BIPOC, immigrants, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities. We're passionate about working with individuals, couples and families from different cultural backgrounds, exploring how complex identities and unique personal experiences have shaped us into who we are. We specialize in healing from anxiety, complex trauma, relationship issues, perinatal issues, ADHD, adoption, OCD, stress, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, grief, and other issues.
Our couple therapists mainly use Gottman Method.
We're a trauma-informed, culturally-sensitive mental health counseling group for multicultural, Asian, BIPOC, immigrants, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities. We're passionate about working with individuals, couples and families from different cultural backgrounds, exploring how complex identities and unique personal experiences have shaped us into who we are. We specialize in healing from anxiety, complex trauma, relationship issues, perinatal issues, ADHD, adoption, OCD, stress, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, grief, and other issues.
(773) 364-1625 View (773) 364-1625
Photo of Taylor Walker, EdS, LCPC, Counselor
Taylor Walker
Counselor, EdS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I use an eclectic approach, integrating elements of psychodynamic and attachment theories, CBT, ACT, the Gottman method, and mindfulness approaches.
I enjoy working with a variety of clients, though I am particularly drawn to working with those that are going through life transitions, struggling with anxiety, navigating relationship and communication struggles, and perinatal women. I love to help clients identify what is working well and what is not so that we can use the two to determine goals. I enjoy collaborating with my clients and will ask you to take an active role in therapy and making changes (though, I'll be right there beside you)! I’m continually amazed by the resiliency and strength in my clients and am quick to point that out in our sessions.
I use an eclectic approach, integrating elements of psychodynamic and attachment theories, CBT, ACT, the Gottman method, and mindfulness approaches.
I enjoy working with a variety of clients, though I am particularly drawn to working with those that are going through life transitions, struggling with anxiety, navigating relationship and communication struggles, and perinatal women. I love to help clients identify what is working well and what is not so that we can use the two to determine goals. I enjoy collaborating with my clients and will ask you to take an active role in therapy and making changes (though, I'll be right there beside you)! I’m continually amazed by the resiliency and strength in my clients and am quick to point that out in our sessions.
(773) 207-2091 View (773) 207-2091
Photo of Melissa Littlefield, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Littlefield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
When working with couples, I draw from both the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Have you been struggling with managing the changes life has dealt to you? I have worked with individuals from six months to ninety-eight years old, couples, and groups of individuals to support them in their life changes and help them address their needs through therapeutic interventions. My approach to therapy relies on the ability to create safety and developing a strong therapeutic alliance with you. I view this alliance as the vehicle for change that you are looking for. I want to work to meet you where you are at, so that you feel understood and heard in your experience.
When working with couples, I draw from both the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Have you been struggling with managing the changes life has dealt to you? I have worked with individuals from six months to ninety-eight years old, couples, and groups of individuals to support them in their life changes and help them address their needs through therapeutic interventions. My approach to therapy relies on the ability to create safety and developing a strong therapeutic alliance with you. I view this alliance as the vehicle for change that you are looking for. I want to work to meet you where you are at, so that you feel understood and heard in your experience.
(312) 584-2572 View (312) 584-2572
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Gottman Method Therapists

How does the Gottman method work?

One of the core doctrines of the Gottman method is that negative emotions hurt relationships about five times more than positive emotions help them. Thus, couples require five times more positive interactions than negative interactions with each other. The therapist will guide clients on how to improve communication and understanding of each other to manage conflict and have their emotional needs met. The therapist will also advise couples on how to repair relations with each other when conflict arises, and therefore avoid lasting damage.

Is the Gottman method evidence-based?

Yes, this method is an evidence-based approach to couples therapy. The method is based on more than 40 years of research by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, the psychologists who developed the method. The Gottmans analyzed decades of data to draw conclusions about what types of interactions are likely to lead to specific results, and which interventions are most likely to lead to success. Studies have found that this approach leads to improvements in relationship satisfaction, intimacy, communication skills, and a lower rate of divorce.

How long does the Gottman method take?

The duration of treatment depends on the specific challenges clients face. Sessions are typically 60 to 90 minutes long, and an average course of treatment is around 10 sessions. In some cases, such as for couples dealing with a critical problem, the therapist will suggest an intensive course of treatment, with daily sessions over the first two to four days. Treatment is complete when the couple is satisfied and has met the goals they’ve set, and when the therapist believes they have the skills to continue on their own.

Is the Gottman method effective?

Through the Gottman method, couples can achieve changes that are real and sustainable. This treatment has been used for more than 40 years; the method is supported by empirical research, including randomized controlled trials that have demonstrated effectiveness in improving relationship outcomes for couples. Like any talk therapy, success or failure depends in large part on how committed the clients are to making positive changes and working toward results.