Gottman Method Therapists in Bellingham, WA

Photo of Lydia Blackwell, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Lydia Blackwell
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Waitlist for new clients
For Couples, I have specialized training in The Gottman Method and also use Acceptance and Commitment therapy.
"Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. It's not always comfortable, but it's never weakness."--Brene Brown. Hi, I'm Lydia and I utilize a solution focused, mindfulness based approach to aid clients in exploring their authentic selves and behavioral patterns. Like a Phoenix, I believe individuals have the ability to rise from the ashes as renewed, stronger versions of themselves. Whether those ashes are from broken relationships, perpetual marital problems, crippling anxiety, career dissatisfaction or the aftermath of trauma, they have the power to transform you.
For Couples, I have specialized training in The Gottman Method and also use Acceptance and Commitment therapy.
"Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. It's not always comfortable, but it's never weakness."--Brene Brown. Hi, I'm Lydia and I utilize a solution focused, mindfulness based approach to aid clients in exploring their authentic selves and behavioral patterns. Like a Phoenix, I believe individuals have the ability to rise from the ashes as renewed, stronger versions of themselves. Whether those ashes are from broken relationships, perpetual marital problems, crippling anxiety, career dissatisfaction or the aftermath of trauma, they have the power to transform you.
(360) 215-5672 View (360) 215-5672
Photo of Kate Smith, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Kate Smith
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98229
I am also trained in EMDR and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
As a Trauma focused Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, I work with individuals struggling with emotional issues as a result of past trauma and early attachment wounds. I specialize in helping clients heal from complex trauma, childhood abuse and neglect, and recover from unhealthy relationships. My own experiences with trauma have profoundly shaped my approach to therapy. I understand firsthand the courage it takes to seek help and the challenges involved in the healing process. This personal insight drives my commitment to providing a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and inclusive space for all my clients.
I am also trained in EMDR and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
As a Trauma focused Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, I work with individuals struggling with emotional issues as a result of past trauma and early attachment wounds. I specialize in helping clients heal from complex trauma, childhood abuse and neglect, and recover from unhealthy relationships. My own experiences with trauma have profoundly shaped my approach to therapy. I understand firsthand the courage it takes to seek help and the challenges involved in the healing process. This personal insight drives my commitment to providing a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and inclusive space for all my clients.
(360) 654-7613 View (360) 654-7613
Photo of Heather Varnau, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Heather Varnau
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
I specialize in helping couples rebuild connection, trust, and security in marriage and intimate relationships through Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
With your partner: Do you feel alone in your relationship? Are you recovering from infidelity or broken trust? Do you want to communicate in a way that pulls for your partner's understanding and connection? For yourself: Do you want to resolve your internal conflicts? Do you want to learn self-compassion and feel at peace with yourself? Do you want to break negative patterns in your relationships? I'm here to help. Over the past 15 years, I've helped hundreds of couples and individuals create emotional security, happiness, and connection through evidence-based and empirically validated therapy methods.
I specialize in helping couples rebuild connection, trust, and security in marriage and intimate relationships through Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
With your partner: Do you feel alone in your relationship? Are you recovering from infidelity or broken trust? Do you want to communicate in a way that pulls for your partner's understanding and connection? For yourself: Do you want to resolve your internal conflicts? Do you want to learn self-compassion and feel at peace with yourself? Do you want to break negative patterns in your relationships? I'm here to help. Over the past 15 years, I've helped hundreds of couples and individuals create emotional security, happiness, and connection through evidence-based and empirically validated therapy methods.
(360) 205-2569 View (360) 205-2569
Photo of Ann Barry, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ann Barry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples. I have found that the most content humans are the ones who have created enough internal space to allow all the parts of themselves to coexist despite the contradictions. Have you ever stopped to wonder about all the parts of you? Why am I excited and terrified at the same time? Why am I trying to please other people but harsh on myself? "Parts Work" is a creative exploration; being a compassionate witness to your own pain. Let's bring some self awareness to your patterns in order to choose how you want to show up for yourselves and others. (With Couples I also use Gottman Method and CBT)
I work with individuals and couples. I have found that the most content humans are the ones who have created enough internal space to allow all the parts of themselves to coexist despite the contradictions. Have you ever stopped to wonder about all the parts of you? Why am I excited and terrified at the same time? Why am I trying to please other people but harsh on myself? "Parts Work" is a creative exploration; being a compassionate witness to your own pain. Let's bring some self awareness to your patterns in order to choose how you want to show up for yourselves and others. (With Couples I also use Gottman Method and CBT)
(206) 809-7609 View (206) 809-7609
Photo of Mike Anthony Black - Mike Black Counseling Services, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mike Black Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience as a school counselor, drug alcohol counselor and in my private practice helping adolescence navigate and work through issues regarding anxiety, school struggles and family conflict. I also assist and give parents skills in raising teens. My Masters Degree is in marriage counseling. My primary focus with married couples is a family systems and Gottman method approach which is researched based approaches to help couples work toward reconciliation by overcoming resentment and better communication in marriage. Lastly, I have close to 10 years experience working in inpatient drug and alcohol treatment.
I have extensive experience as a school counselor, drug alcohol counselor and in my private practice helping adolescence navigate and work through issues regarding anxiety, school struggles and family conflict. I also assist and give parents skills in raising teens. My Masters Degree is in marriage counseling. My primary focus with married couples is a family systems and Gottman method approach which is researched based approaches to help couples work toward reconciliation by overcoming resentment and better communication in marriage. Lastly, I have close to 10 years experience working in inpatient drug and alcohol treatment.
(360) 663-4494 View (360) 663-4494
Photo of Mary Susan Schwartz, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Susan Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My practice is grounded in evidence-based theory, I use an integrative approach, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Theory, Dialectical Behavior Theory, Gottman Method for Couples, and mindfulness-based interventions.
Perhaps you're hoping to improve your mood, increase your self-compassion, or enhance your romantic relationship. Maybe you're seeking a non-judgmental and supportive relationship with your therapist, within which you can learn strategies you can use right away. If so, I look forward to hearing from you!
My practice is grounded in evidence-based theory, I use an integrative approach, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Theory, Dialectical Behavior Theory, Gottman Method for Couples, and mindfulness-based interventions.
Perhaps you're hoping to improve your mood, increase your self-compassion, or enhance your romantic relationship. Maybe you're seeking a non-judgmental and supportive relationship with your therapist, within which you can learn strategies you can use right away. If so, I look forward to hearing from you!
(206) 455-8671 View (206) 455-8671
Photo of Katie Olvera - Counseling And Supervision, PsyD, Psychologist
Katie Olvera - Counseling And Supervision
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Not accepting new clients
Hello! I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and I specialize in working with people who have been through traumatic experiences (specifically related to sexual assault, child abuse, dating/domestic violence). I am also a WA State Approved Clinical Supervisor, and I offer a supervision bundle for those interested in building a private practice while still working towards licensure. More information about my supervision style and structure can be found on my website.
Hello! I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and I specialize in working with people who have been through traumatic experiences (specifically related to sexual assault, child abuse, dating/domestic violence). I am also a WA State Approved Clinical Supervisor, and I offer a supervision bundle for those interested in building a private practice while still working towards licensure. More information about my supervision style and structure can be found on my website.
(360) 305-3909 View (360) 305-3909
Photo of Alicia Rule - Rule and Associates, Child/Family Specialists, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rule and Associates, Child/Family Specialists
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
We offer a full spectrum of parenting and family support for all types of families. We believe that healthy families create strong communities and with the right support, families, children and their communities can thrive. Parenting and marriage doesn’t come with an instruction book, but our experienced and professional, outcomes-based support professionals can be by your side to meet you right where you are at on your journey. We have a diverse, but small group of licensed mental health professionals and family support specialists to help you every step of the way.
We offer a full spectrum of parenting and family support for all types of families. We believe that healthy families create strong communities and with the right support, families, children and their communities can thrive. Parenting and marriage doesn’t come with an instruction book, but our experienced and professional, outcomes-based support professionals can be by your side to meet you right where you are at on your journey. We have a diverse, but small group of licensed mental health professionals and family support specialists to help you every step of the way.
(360) 734-0615 View (360) 734-0615
Photo of Alicia Spangenberger, LMHCA, Counselor
Alicia Spangenberger
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
Accepting new couples & individual clients. I help millennial women and couples who are racked with anxiety, aren't sure where their self-esteem went and who are generally asking the question: how do I get rid of this black hole I feel inside me? Clients come to me closely identifying with the shameful parts of themselves that are holding a great amount of pain. They have learned to sweep many things under the rug, and they are now at the point of being impossible to ignore. The women and couples I see want to feel more connected with themselves and their partners, but they're not sure where to start.
Accepting new couples & individual clients. I help millennial women and couples who are racked with anxiety, aren't sure where their self-esteem went and who are generally asking the question: how do I get rid of this black hole I feel inside me? Clients come to me closely identifying with the shameful parts of themselves that are holding a great amount of pain. They have learned to sweep many things under the rug, and they are now at the point of being impossible to ignore. The women and couples I see want to feel more connected with themselves and their partners, but they're not sure where to start.
(360) 317-2564 View (360) 317-2564
Photo of Marilene Silva, MFT, SUDP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marilene Silva
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, SUDP
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Mental health counseling for individuals, couples, and families. Trauma recovery. Narcissistic/ power and control relationship abuse. Immigration psychological evaluations for Hardship, Cancelation of Removal, U Visa, Substance Abuse, VAWA, and others. Services offered in Spanish, Portuguese, and English
Mental health counseling for individuals, couples, and families. Trauma recovery. Narcissistic/ power and control relationship abuse. Immigration psychological evaluations for Hardship, Cancelation of Removal, U Visa, Substance Abuse, VAWA, and others. Services offered in Spanish, Portuguese, and English
(360) 526-8652 View (360) 526-8652
Photo of Tara L Caldwell, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Tara L Caldwell
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98226  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My approach with clients is warm, compassionate and collaborative. In addition to relieving pain and symptoms, I strive to help clients make changes that bring them happiness and greater satisfaction in life. Areas of expertise include treatment of PTSD, depression, anxiety, trauma, and abuse, along with problems stemming from relationship issues, divorce, parenting issues, empty nest, career change, relocation, major illness, chronic pain, or grief. I use complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a personalized approach for each client, building on strengths to achieve the changes you want.
My approach with clients is warm, compassionate and collaborative. In addition to relieving pain and symptoms, I strive to help clients make changes that bring them happiness and greater satisfaction in life. Areas of expertise include treatment of PTSD, depression, anxiety, trauma, and abuse, along with problems stemming from relationship issues, divorce, parenting issues, empty nest, career change, relocation, major illness, chronic pain, or grief. I use complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a personalized approach for each client, building on strengths to achieve the changes you want.
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Photo of Kara Kellison, PhD, Psychologist
Kara Kellison
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98226
Therapy is an opportunity to learn how to be present with discomfort and cultivate a new path forward in the direction of the life one wants that is full, rich, and meaningful. I aim to help clients identify and cope with internal obstacles that keep them from having the kind of life they want. If you are interested in exploring the process of making necessary changes to live a more fulfilling life that is centered on your personal values and strengths then this will likely be a good fit.
Therapy is an opportunity to learn how to be present with discomfort and cultivate a new path forward in the direction of the life one wants that is full, rich, and meaningful. I aim to help clients identify and cope with internal obstacles that keep them from having the kind of life they want. If you are interested in exploring the process of making necessary changes to live a more fulfilling life that is centered on your personal values and strengths then this will likely be a good fit.
(360) 967-0837 View (360) 967-0837
Photo of Michael D Powers, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael D Powers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
It is my privilege to have been working with couples, families, and individuals for 30 years. My work emphasizes helping my clients find more authentic meaning and purpose in their lives, fully developing their potential, and assisting them in establishing lasting solutions. I have extensive experience treating common couple's and family issues such as communication, parenting, conflict-resolution, and stagnancy, as well as infidelity, addictions, and domestic violence. My clinical expertise in individual psychotherapy extends to depression, anxiety, anger management, addictions, self-discovery, and overall life direction.
It is my privilege to have been working with couples, families, and individuals for 30 years. My work emphasizes helping my clients find more authentic meaning and purpose in their lives, fully developing their potential, and assisting them in establishing lasting solutions. I have extensive experience treating common couple's and family issues such as communication, parenting, conflict-resolution, and stagnancy, as well as infidelity, addictions, and domestic violence. My clinical expertise in individual psychotherapy extends to depression, anxiety, anger management, addictions, self-discovery, and overall life direction.
(360) 813-6578 View (360) 813-6578
Photo of Danae Armstrong - Local Beacon Counseling, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Danae Armstrong - Local Beacon Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Waitlist for new clients
I am a passionate licensed mental health counselor that believes in helping others to foster growth and achieve their goals. I believe in taking risks, being vulnerable and shooting big in life. I am trained in both evidence based and person-centered practices. I work with my clients to create a plan for their therapy experience that is meaningful and works towards results. I work with individuals 12 years of age and up, couples and families. For clinicians newer or returning to the field, I offer a package supervision plan that includes billing and practice setup. Current counseling openings within practice - see website.
I am a passionate licensed mental health counselor that believes in helping others to foster growth and achieve their goals. I believe in taking risks, being vulnerable and shooting big in life. I am trained in both evidence based and person-centered practices. I work with my clients to create a plan for their therapy experience that is meaningful and works towards results. I work with individuals 12 years of age and up, couples and families. For clinicians newer or returning to the field, I offer a package supervision plan that includes billing and practice setup. Current counseling openings within practice - see website.
(360) 526-8227 View (360) 526-8227
Photo of Laurel Eby - Laurel Eby, Constellation Counseling & Supervision, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Laurel Eby, Constellation Counseling & Supervision
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
Not accepting new clients
Please know that I respond fastest to texts to 360-205-1870 (preferred) or emails. Counseling should be compassionate, accessible, and affordable so that you feel safe navigating the process as an opportunity that can help make the changes. We all need to reach out for support when days become overwhelming and we are prevented from living the quality of life that we want. Your journey is a collaborative approach so we will work to find what we feel is the best fit. I plan on supporting you down your path of self-authorship where you'll work to trust yourself, reflect on experiences, learn coping skills, and lead your life.
Please know that I respond fastest to texts to 360-205-1870 (preferred) or emails. Counseling should be compassionate, accessible, and affordable so that you feel safe navigating the process as an opportunity that can help make the changes. We all need to reach out for support when days become overwhelming and we are prevented from living the quality of life that we want. Your journey is a collaborative approach so we will work to find what we feel is the best fit. I plan on supporting you down your path of self-authorship where you'll work to trust yourself, reflect on experiences, learn coping skills, and lead your life.
(360) 234-3376 View (360) 234-3376
Photo of Clare Honn, MFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Clare Honn
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
Now accepting new clients! A mindfully collaborative approach to counseling begins with a validating and empathetic therapist. I work with adults, couples, and adolescents to help develop insight and awareness through curiosity, not judgement. When we approach ourselves with compassion and kindness, we open the door to growth and a deeper understanding of ourselves. I whole-heartedly believe throughout this process we can cultivate healthier living patterns, reduce stress and anxiety, decrease negative thoughts, improve interpersonal relationships, and increase self awareness, confidence, and worth.
Now accepting new clients! A mindfully collaborative approach to counseling begins with a validating and empathetic therapist. I work with adults, couples, and adolescents to help develop insight and awareness through curiosity, not judgement. When we approach ourselves with compassion and kindness, we open the door to growth and a deeper understanding of ourselves. I whole-heartedly believe throughout this process we can cultivate healthier living patterns, reduce stress and anxiety, decrease negative thoughts, improve interpersonal relationships, and increase self awareness, confidence, and worth.
(360) 997-2814 View (360) 997-2814
Mirabai Wahbe
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
I have 40 plus years working with individuals, couples and families. I AM PRESENTING ASL2 Workshop in Bellingham and Seattle. This is available to couples who have attended the Art and Science of Love workshop with Drs. John and Julie Gottman, with other Certified Gottman workshop leaders, or have studied the Gottman DVD. Please check out the Gottman Institute website for further information and our website: asl2workshop.com PLEASE NOTE THAT I AM NOT ABLE TO ACCEPT NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME.
I have 40 plus years working with individuals, couples and families. I AM PRESENTING ASL2 Workshop in Bellingham and Seattle. This is available to couples who have attended the Art and Science of Love workshop with Drs. John and Julie Gottman, with other Certified Gottman workshop leaders, or have studied the Gottman DVD. Please check out the Gottman Institute website for further information and our website: asl2workshop.com PLEASE NOTE THAT I AM NOT ABLE TO ACCEPT NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME.
(360) 979-1095 View (360) 979-1095
Photo of Shannon McCune, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Shannon McCune
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
I work alongside couples and individuals. I create a safe place and ample time for you to share what you need, hope for, miss, and crave in your life or relationship. We will work through hard topics, recurring struggles, and old hurts in ways that will help you feel seen, heard, and understood.
I work alongside couples and individuals. I create a safe place and ample time for you to share what you need, hope for, miss, and crave in your life or relationship. We will work through hard topics, recurring struggles, and old hurts in ways that will help you feel seen, heard, and understood.
(360) 345-3952 View (360) 345-3952
Photo of Aaron Fox, LMHC, Counselor
Aaron Fox
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
If there is anything I could say, it would be this: I am here for you, and you are not alone. Whether you are sad, angry, tired, anxious, frustrated, depressed, or anything else you may be struggling with, I am here to help. I take great care to earn the trust of each client, and I will work with you to address whatever is weighing on you - from depression, overwhelming anxiety, and past trauma, to relationship issues, struggles with anger, and low self-esteem.
If there is anything I could say, it would be this: I am here for you, and you are not alone. Whether you are sad, angry, tired, anxious, frustrated, depressed, or anything else you may be struggling with, I am here to help. I take great care to earn the trust of each client, and I will work with you to address whatever is weighing on you - from depression, overwhelming anxiety, and past trauma, to relationship issues, struggles with anger, and low self-esteem.
(360) 919-0654 View (360) 919-0654
Photo of Justin Marr, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Justin Marr
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98226
It's become a struggle to express your needs to the people you love. Some days, it feels like you are repeating the same conversation or argument over and over again. You feel stuck and vulnerable. I understand what you are going through. Relationships can be challenging, with twists and turns that create anxiety, confusion, and discouragement. This may not be what you expected and it can be difficult to remember what it’s like to feel excited and satisfied. I want to help you find the way back to a more fulfilling and healthier relationship. There is a way forward.
It's become a struggle to express your needs to the people you love. Some days, it feels like you are repeating the same conversation or argument over and over again. You feel stuck and vulnerable. I understand what you are going through. Relationships can be challenging, with twists and turns that create anxiety, confusion, and discouragement. This may not be what you expected and it can be difficult to remember what it’s like to feel excited and satisfied. I want to help you find the way back to a more fulfilling and healthier relationship. There is a way forward.
(253) 215-6418 View (253) 215-6418
1
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.