Gottman Method Therapists in Star, ID

Photo of Shirlene M Elledge, LCSW, CPM, CNHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shirlene M Elledge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CPM, CNHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Star, ID 83669
For over 30 years I have helped individuals make some of the most important decisions of their life. I specialize in helping you resolve relationship challenges as couples, co-parents, step-parents, parent-child, families, and divorcing couples. Sometimes this means strengthening the most important relationship--with yourself. I provide private counseling, coaching, personal growth retreats, and mediation services.Together, we can explore and discover answers to finding greater joy and meaning in your life.
For over 30 years I have helped individuals make some of the most important decisions of their life. I specialize in helping you resolve relationship challenges as couples, co-parents, step-parents, parent-child, families, and divorcing couples. Sometimes this means strengthening the most important relationship--with yourself. I provide private counseling, coaching, personal growth retreats, and mediation services.Together, we can explore and discover answers to finding greater joy and meaning in your life.
(208) 647-0672 View (208) 647-0672
Photo of Susan Virginia Pennington, MA, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Virginia Pennington
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Star, ID 83669
I applaud you for making the first step in looking for a therapist. You may be feeling frustrated and thinking that you are out of hope. Are you lonely and isolated in your pain? Let your pain be the messenger; it is informing you to take action. It is time to make a change. While nothing that you are going through is easy, this pain is the catalyst for growth. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples repair, reconnect and rejuvenate their relationships.
I applaud you for making the first step in looking for a therapist. You may be feeling frustrated and thinking that you are out of hope. Are you lonely and isolated in your pain? Let your pain be the messenger; it is informing you to take action. It is time to make a change. While nothing that you are going through is easy, this pain is the catalyst for growth. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples repair, reconnect and rejuvenate their relationships.
(208) 914-6439 View (208) 914-6439
Photo of Brionne P. Chamberlain, LAMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Brionne P. Chamberlain
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Star, ID 83669
Waitlist for new clients
I believe relationships have the potential to enhance your capacity to cope with life's challenges, heal from past hurts, & find wellness & satisfaction. When relationships are strained, however, the strain can erode your natural, resilient abilities. I specialize in helping couples, families, & individuals to access inherent healing resources & to work through patterns of behavior & thinking that have them stuck. I collaborate with my clients to develop effective communication & conflict resolution skills, create healthy boundaries, & to experience restorative emotional experiences with their significant others.
I believe relationships have the potential to enhance your capacity to cope with life's challenges, heal from past hurts, & find wellness & satisfaction. When relationships are strained, however, the strain can erode your natural, resilient abilities. I specialize in helping couples, families, & individuals to access inherent healing resources & to work through patterns of behavior & thinking that have them stuck. I collaborate with my clients to develop effective communication & conflict resolution skills, create healthy boundaries, & to experience restorative emotional experiences with their significant others.
(208) 741-6484 View (208) 741-6484
Photo of Holly Casos, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Holly Casos
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Star, ID 83669
Waitlist for new clients
It is my honor to work with couples, families, and individuals desirous of creating authentic relationships with honest communication. In today's world, we can feel pressured to present a perfect image of ourselves to our community, work colleagues, family members, and even our spouses. This can cause a great deal of exhaustion and anxiety. Even if there is a desire to show our more true, vulnerable self to others, there comes with it a fear that we may be seen as "not enough" and ultimately be rejected. Together, I can help you build healthier connections with yourself and with your spouse/family.
It is my honor to work with couples, families, and individuals desirous of creating authentic relationships with honest communication. In today's world, we can feel pressured to present a perfect image of ourselves to our community, work colleagues, family members, and even our spouses. This can cause a great deal of exhaustion and anxiety. Even if there is a desire to show our more true, vulnerable self to others, there comes with it a fear that we may be seen as "not enough" and ultimately be rejected. Together, I can help you build healthier connections with yourself and with your spouse/family.
(208) 925-1449 View (208) 925-1449

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kendra Nielson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kendra Nielson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Caldwell, ID 83605  (Online Only)
With advanced training in trauma therapy (EMDR), couples therapy ( Gottman Method, Emotion-focused Therapy), and solution-focused, holistic treatment, I help clients create more meaningful lives.
Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and disconnected in your role as a parent, spouse, and adult? You're not alone. I help my clients navigate the challenges of parenthood, strained marriages, feelings of discouragement, and the search for greater life satisfaction. We explore values, neglected needs, trauma, and a holistic life balance. We address anxiety, depression, and faith struggles. We collaboratively create a plan to rediscover the joy and purpose you've been missing. It's time to take your first step toward healing and into proactive, elevated living.
With advanced training in trauma therapy (EMDR), couples therapy ( Gottman Method, Emotion-focused Therapy), and solution-focused, holistic treatment, I help clients create more meaningful lives.
Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and disconnected in your role as a parent, spouse, and adult? You're not alone. I help my clients navigate the challenges of parenthood, strained marriages, feelings of discouragement, and the search for greater life satisfaction. We explore values, neglected needs, trauma, and a holistic life balance. We address anxiety, depression, and faith struggles. We collaboratively create a plan to rediscover the joy and purpose you've been missing. It's time to take your first step toward healing and into proactive, elevated living.
(858) 542-8008 View (858) 542-8008
Photo of Erin Salyer - By the Streams Christian Counseling LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
By the Streams Christian Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Middleton, ID 83644  (Online Only)
I also provide the Gottman Method for couples to improve their marriages, one of the few tested methods in marriage counseling.
Feeling overwhelmed with emotions and past trauma? Have you tried "talk therapy" and have not seen any improvements? Hi, my name is Erin and I love coming alongside clients to work through challenges whether you have had them your whole life or are in a season of change. I combined researched methods with a Christian worldview and Biblical truth to bring lasting healing. I am also comfortable walking with you through spiritual doubts. If you are needing help in your marriage and don't know where to turn let me walk beside you.
I also provide the Gottman Method for couples to improve their marriages, one of the few tested methods in marriage counseling.
Feeling overwhelmed with emotions and past trauma? Have you tried "talk therapy" and have not seen any improvements? Hi, my name is Erin and I love coming alongside clients to work through challenges whether you have had them your whole life or are in a season of change. I combined researched methods with a Christian worldview and Biblical truth to bring lasting healing. I am also comfortable walking with you through spiritual doubts. If you are needing help in your marriage and don't know where to turn let me walk beside you.
(208) 517-0333 View (208) 517-0333
Photo of Courtney Lossmann - Rolling Hills Counseling & Mediation Services PLLC, LCSW, CPM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rolling Hills Counseling & Mediation Services PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CPM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83713
Courtney Lossmann is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Professional Mediator. She offers counseling and mediation services to individuals in Idaho, age 18 and above. Courtney is trained in Level 1 and 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapy and has experience working with individuals and couples on blended family issues. She believes that everyone has an innate need to belong, which is achieved through their relationships with others. Courtney is passionate about promoting healthy relationships in all domains of life. She considers healthy relationships to be the foundation of wholeness and gives meaning to our existence
Courtney Lossmann is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Professional Mediator. She offers counseling and mediation services to individuals in Idaho, age 18 and above. Courtney is trained in Level 1 and 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapy and has experience working with individuals and couples on blended family issues. She believes that everyone has an innate need to belong, which is achieved through their relationships with others. Courtney is passionate about promoting healthy relationships in all domains of life. She considers healthy relationships to be the foundation of wholeness and gives meaning to our existence
(208) 741-6070 View (208) 741-6070
Photo of Candace Cooper, LCPC , Counselor
Candace Cooper
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
I utilize the Gottman method with couples.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and I am happy that you are considering my help for your mental health needs. I have a passion for people, families and couples. I want people to be confident with themselves and happy with who they place themselves around. You may be stuck and confused about areas of your life that work in some ways but in other areas, it is not working.
I utilize the Gottman method with couples.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and I am happy that you are considering my help for your mental health needs. I have a passion for people, families and couples. I want people to be confident with themselves and happy with who they place themselves around. You may be stuck and confused about areas of your life that work in some ways but in other areas, it is not working.
(208) 510-0432 View (208) 510-0432
Photo of Tacy McCoy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tacy McCoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83646
I utilize the Gottman method in my work with couples.
Hi, my name is Tacy. I absolutely love what I do and it is a privilege to be a witness to others’ healing and mental health journeys. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and therapist who specializes in PTSD, addiction, adolescents, family and couples therapy. I have years of experience working with veterans, active duty military and their families. I have worked with individuals, families and couples from almost every walk of life and situation imaginable.
I utilize the Gottman method in my work with couples.
Hi, my name is Tacy. I absolutely love what I do and it is a privilege to be a witness to others’ healing and mental health journeys. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and therapist who specializes in PTSD, addiction, adolescents, family and couples therapy. I have years of experience working with veterans, active duty military and their families. I have worked with individuals, families and couples from almost every walk of life and situation imaginable.
(208) 494-9345 View (208) 494-9345
Photo of Gail I Peterson, LCPC, RPT-S, Counselor
Gail I Peterson
Counselor, LCPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nampa, ID 83687
Waitlist for new clients
I offer traditional talk therapy, the Gottman Method for couples counseling, EMDR, Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for those who have experienced trauma real or perceived, hypnotherapy to assist client's with anxiety, depression, pain, and self-esteem issues, PLAY THERAPY to assist the client with healing and Filial Therapy for parents.
Life can be difficult with the many challenges we face. Each person is unique and a trial for one may be easy, yet for another, difficult. We all have different perceptions, understandings, communication patterns, and disappointments in life. It can be helpful to seek assistance in navigating the rough storms of life. Whether you are an adult, child, or teen experiences symptoms of depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, parenting problems or couple or family difficulties. I look forward to working with you by assisting and supporting you through the challenges you are facing in life past or present.
I offer traditional talk therapy, the Gottman Method for couples counseling, EMDR, Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for those who have experienced trauma real or perceived, hypnotherapy to assist client's with anxiety, depression, pain, and self-esteem issues, PLAY THERAPY to assist the client with healing and Filial Therapy for parents.
Life can be difficult with the many challenges we face. Each person is unique and a trial for one may be easy, yet for another, difficult. We all have different perceptions, understandings, communication patterns, and disappointments in life. It can be helpful to seek assistance in navigating the rough storms of life. Whether you are an adult, child, or teen experiences symptoms of depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, parenting problems or couple or family difficulties. I look forward to working with you by assisting and supporting you through the challenges you are facing in life past or present.
(208) 547-6990 View (208) 547-6990
Photo of Jennifer Hancock, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Hancock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83646
My name is Jennifer Hancock, I am a Licensed Master of Social Work or LMSW. I earned my Master’s degree from Northwest Nazarene University in 2020. My internship was with the Assertive Clinical Treatment (ACT) team, located within the Department of Health and Welfare, in Caldwell, Idaho. I'm certified in Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and I utilize The Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my work. I am passionate about providing therapeutic support to those in our LGBTQIA+ community and their loved ones.
My name is Jennifer Hancock, I am a Licensed Master of Social Work or LMSW. I earned my Master’s degree from Northwest Nazarene University in 2020. My internship was with the Assertive Clinical Treatment (ACT) team, located within the Department of Health and Welfare, in Caldwell, Idaho. I'm certified in Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and I utilize The Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my work. I am passionate about providing therapeutic support to those in our LGBTQIA+ community and their loved ones.
(208) 203-8402 View (208) 203-8402
Photo of Jill Mitchell - Jill Mitchell, PhD, LLC, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Mitchell, PhD, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Eagle, ID 83616
I continue to learn and am trained in EMDR, Narrative Practices, and Gottman Method.
Welcome! As you explore my offerings, I invite you to join me in honoring the complex nature of relationships. I have been a psychotherapist for over 30 years and enjoy working with those who are 13 years and older. I work with those struggling with PTSD, anxiety, panic, depression, anxiety, communication problems and relationship issues. I seek to collaborate with those who come to see me to find preferred ways of living.
I continue to learn and am trained in EMDR, Narrative Practices, and Gottman Method.
Welcome! As you explore my offerings, I invite you to join me in honoring the complex nature of relationships. I have been a psychotherapist for over 30 years and enjoy working with those who are 13 years and older. I work with those struggling with PTSD, anxiety, panic, depression, anxiety, communication problems and relationship issues. I seek to collaborate with those who come to see me to find preferred ways of living.
(208) 595-6481 View (208) 595-6481
Photo of Hijiriko Castleman, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hijiriko Castleman
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Nampa, ID 83651  (Online Only)
I am Level 1 trained in the Gottman Method of Couples Counseling.
I am an Autistic, ADHD, queer, and biracial therapist that is passionate about celebrating intersectional diversity with clients. Living in a world where neurodiversity, gender, sexuality, and multiculturalism are still heavily misunderstood can be an incredibly alienating, painful, and confusing experience. Discovering, communicating, and advocating for accommodations, needs, passions, and making sense of your life is among my favorite parts of working with clients. When we are able to make meaning in life and identify what is important to us, we can use these aspects to guide our behavior toward becoming the person we want to be.
I am Level 1 trained in the Gottman Method of Couples Counseling.
I am an Autistic, ADHD, queer, and biracial therapist that is passionate about celebrating intersectional diversity with clients. Living in a world where neurodiversity, gender, sexuality, and multiculturalism are still heavily misunderstood can be an incredibly alienating, painful, and confusing experience. Discovering, communicating, and advocating for accommodations, needs, passions, and making sense of your life is among my favorite parts of working with clients. When we are able to make meaning in life and identify what is important to us, we can use these aspects to guide our behavior toward becoming the person we want to be.
(208) 225-4436 View (208) 225-4436
Photo of Jessica Farrulla - Jessica Farrulla, MA, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Farrulla, MA, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Eagle, ID 83616
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and a Gottman Method (Level 2) Couples Therapist.
Have you been cheated on and you don't know whether to stay or go in the relationship? You feel pressure to do what's right, but when you search deep down inside, you are unsure what the right thing is to do. Or maybe the thought of being alone is too scary to even consider, which keeps you staying in a toxic relationship. Whether you're feeling trapped or stuck, you desire more. Let's help you find strength, clarity, and peace.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and a Gottman Method (Level 2) Couples Therapist.
Have you been cheated on and you don't know whether to stay or go in the relationship? You feel pressure to do what's right, but when you search deep down inside, you are unsure what the right thing is to do. Or maybe the thought of being alone is too scary to even consider, which keeps you staying in a toxic relationship. Whether you're feeling trapped or stuck, you desire more. Let's help you find strength, clarity, and peace.
(208) 823-5522 View (208) 823-5522
Photo of Stephanie R. Alvarez, LMFT, LPC, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie R. Alvarez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Eagle, ID 83616  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Telehealth Counseling only. Be willing to work on issues/see things differently. Gottman Method Couples Therapy used, took all Institute trainings to meet any type of relationship goals. As National Certified Counselor, I have extensive experience in tailoring personalized life coaching to meet your needs, empower strengths, increase personal skills, address areas interfering with current abilities, such as anxiety, depression, anger or addictions. Search: Stephanie Alvarez counselor. Certified Hypnotherapist under National Association for Clinical Hypnotherapy. Certified Military & Family Life, MFLC. Certified in BrainSpotting.
Telehealth Counseling only. Be willing to work on issues/see things differently. Gottman Method Couples Therapy used, took all Institute trainings to meet any type of relationship goals. As National Certified Counselor, I have extensive experience in tailoring personalized life coaching to meet your needs, empower strengths, increase personal skills, address areas interfering with current abilities, such as anxiety, depression, anger or addictions. Search: Stephanie Alvarez counselor. Certified Hypnotherapist under National Association for Clinical Hypnotherapy. Certified Military & Family Life, MFLC. Certified in BrainSpotting.
(208) 413-9905 View (208) 413-9905
Photo of Melissa Funston, LPC, MS Ed, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Funston
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS Ed
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83646
I am trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, allowing me to offer specialized support for couples seeking to strengthen their relationship.
As a proud member of the ADHDer club and a self-identified “Crazy Cat Lady,” my unique perspective allows me to offer a refreshing and empathetic approach to counseling. My goal is to help you embrace your true self and make meaningful changes in your life. My approach to therapy is grounded in a unique direct humor, intuition, and down-to-earth guidance to walk with you in authenticity. I believe being alive gives opportunities for growth, and I am here to support you with genuine care and laughter. I am passionate about creating an authentic and comfortable space to address needs that would be too daunting to tackle alone.
I am trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, allowing me to offer specialized support for couples seeking to strengthen their relationship.
As a proud member of the ADHDer club and a self-identified “Crazy Cat Lady,” my unique perspective allows me to offer a refreshing and empathetic approach to counseling. My goal is to help you embrace your true self and make meaningful changes in your life. My approach to therapy is grounded in a unique direct humor, intuition, and down-to-earth guidance to walk with you in authenticity. I believe being alive gives opportunities for growth, and I am here to support you with genuine care and laughter. I am passionate about creating an authentic and comfortable space to address needs that would be too daunting to tackle alone.
(208) 510-0829 View (208) 510-0829
Photo of Andreina Cruz Gregg, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andreina Cruz Gregg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nampa, ID 83687
Trained in EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, Grief and Trauma, Prepare and Enrich, Play therapy, Sand Tray Therapy and has completed Level 1 and Level 2 in The Gottman Method of Couples Therapy.
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, frustrated, stuck in your relationships, or lonely in a new environment? I can help you find ways to cope with uncomfortable feelings for you to experience more balance in your daily life and develop more fulfilling relationships. My name is Andreina Cruz, I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing therapeutic support towards improved relationships, greater intimacy, better communication, inner healing and developing coping skills to deal with uncomfortable moods and feelings.
Trained in EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, Grief and Trauma, Prepare and Enrich, Play therapy, Sand Tray Therapy and has completed Level 1 and Level 2 in The Gottman Method of Couples Therapy.
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, frustrated, stuck in your relationships, or lonely in a new environment? I can help you find ways to cope with uncomfortable feelings for you to experience more balance in your daily life and develop more fulfilling relationships. My name is Andreina Cruz, I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing therapeutic support towards improved relationships, greater intimacy, better communication, inner healing and developing coping skills to deal with uncomfortable moods and feelings.
(986) 202-2031 View (986) 202-2031
Photo of Hassan Rehan, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hassan Rehan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83646  (Online Only)
Are you feeling disconnected from your partner? Not sure how to get through conflicts without it turning into a stalemate or, worse, having you or your partner feeling defeated? I would love to help! I specialize in couples and am Gottman Method level 3 trained. I work with people who are looking for practical and effective skills to enhance their relationships. I help couples learn to be with each other and connect on a deeper level. Getting out of old cycles can be frustrating and feel impossible at times. I would love to help you cultivate a relationship which is emotionally safe and enriching.
Are you feeling disconnected from your partner? Not sure how to get through conflicts without it turning into a stalemate or, worse, having you or your partner feeling defeated? I would love to help! I specialize in couples and am Gottman Method level 3 trained. I work with people who are looking for practical and effective skills to enhance their relationships. I help couples learn to be with each other and connect on a deeper level. Getting out of old cycles can be frustrating and feel impossible at times. I would love to help you cultivate a relationship which is emotionally safe and enriching.
(281) 378-6447 View (281) 378-6447
Photo of Melinda Russell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melinda Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nampa, ID 83651
Marriage is hard and it is certainly not the fairy tale story that Disney had once made us believe. It takes work, compromise, forgiveness, and understanding. Learning to communicate and resolve conflict effectively is a major key, but it also involves putting our ego aside and truly having a desire to listen to our partner and their needs. I have been in private practice for 20 years, and I am Gottman Method trained. I have worked in the field of domestic violence, residential care, and as a community mental health provider for more than 26 years. I am currently seeking my doctoral degree in Marriage and Family therapy.
Marriage is hard and it is certainly not the fairy tale story that Disney had once made us believe. It takes work, compromise, forgiveness, and understanding. Learning to communicate and resolve conflict effectively is a major key, but it also involves putting our ego aside and truly having a desire to listen to our partner and their needs. I have been in private practice for 20 years, and I am Gottman Method trained. I have worked in the field of domestic violence, residential care, and as a community mental health provider for more than 26 years. I am currently seeking my doctoral degree in Marriage and Family therapy.
(208) 213-8164 View (208) 213-8164
Photo of Courtney Lossmann, LCSW, CPM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Lossmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CPM
Verified Verified
Eagle, ID 83616
I offer counseling and mediation services to individuals in Idaho, age 18 and above. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Professional Mediator. I am also trained in Level 1 and 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapy and have experience working with individuals and couples on blended family issues. I believe everyone has an innate need to belong, which is achieved through their relationships with others. I'm passionate about promoting healthy relationships in all domains of life. I consider healthy relationships to be the foundation of wholeness and gives meaning to our existence.
I offer counseling and mediation services to individuals in Idaho, age 18 and above. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Professional Mediator. I am also trained in Level 1 and 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapy and have experience working with individuals and couples on blended family issues. I believe everyone has an innate need to belong, which is achieved through their relationships with others. I'm passionate about promoting healthy relationships in all domains of life. I consider healthy relationships to be the foundation of wholeness and gives meaning to our existence.
(208) 457-4390 View (208) 457-4390
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.