Gottman Method Therapists in Cook County, IL

Photo of Masha Erofeeva, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Masha Erofeeva
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
I am a licensed clinical therapist on staff at SpringSource Psychological Center and have immediate availability to help new clients. I received my master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northern Arizona University and trained in CBT, Gottman Method, ERP, client-centered therapy, as well as other traditional therapies. Working with individuals, couples, and groups, I incorporate Internal Family Systems and Polyvagal and Somatic Experiencing Therapies. As an experienced therapist, I value continued professional learning and growth, allowing me to provide my clients with the very best treatment.
I am a licensed clinical therapist on staff at SpringSource Psychological Center and have immediate availability to help new clients. I received my master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northern Arizona University and trained in CBT, Gottman Method, ERP, client-centered therapy, as well as other traditional therapies. Working with individuals, couples, and groups, I incorporate Internal Family Systems and Polyvagal and Somatic Experiencing Therapies. As an experienced therapist, I value continued professional learning and growth, allowing me to provide my clients with the very best treatment.
(630) 552-6945 View (630) 552-6945
Photo of Samantha Danilewitz, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Samantha Danilewitz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
Samantha is trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method, and tailors her approach to suit the unique needs of each individual or couple she works with.
Samantha is a compassionate and sex-positive therapist dedicated to nurturing holistic well-being. With a deep-seated belief in the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, Samantha approaches therapy with both couples and individuals with a comprehensive perspective. She understands that true completeness encompasses various aspects of an individual's life to foster healing and growth.
Samantha is trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method, and tailors her approach to suit the unique needs of each individual or couple she works with.
Samantha is a compassionate and sex-positive therapist dedicated to nurturing holistic well-being. With a deep-seated belief in the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, Samantha approaches therapy with both couples and individuals with a comprehensive perspective. She understands that true completeness encompasses various aspects of an individual's life to foster healing and growth.
(773) 830-2005 View (773) 830-2005
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 Mary Walker, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Mary Walker
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60467
I integrate complementary approaches such as psychodynamic, trauma-informed, dialectic behavior and/or Gottman Method, depending on the client's need.
When individuals or couples first come in to see me, they are often anxious, depressed or scared. They may feel confused or uncertain about the future. Coping skills that used to work "OK" no longer seem to be sufficient. Some people can point to a specific cause or event, but others find it difficult to identify or talk about underlying concerns - particularly if they have endured a trauma. Therapy offers a warm, safe and compassionate space for exploration of feelings that can be too difficult or too heavy to hold without support.
I integrate complementary approaches such as psychodynamic, trauma-informed, dialectic behavior and/or Gottman Method, depending on the client's need.
When individuals or couples first come in to see me, they are often anxious, depressed or scared. They may feel confused or uncertain about the future. Coping skills that used to work "OK" no longer seem to be sufficient. Some people can point to a specific cause or event, but others find it difficult to identify or talk about underlying concerns - particularly if they have endured a trauma. Therapy offers a warm, safe and compassionate space for exploration of feelings that can be too difficult or too heavy to hold without support.
(708) 813-2022 x701 View (708) 813-2022 x701
Photo of Rebecca Lu Jin, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Lu Jin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
With my training in the Gottman Method, you and your partner can have all the tools to become more confident in handling life challenges and become more intimate.
(No Openings At the Moment) Let’s face it: life can be tough. Have you tried everything to feel calm and content, yet nothing sticks? It can be scary to get help from a counselor -- you want to be sure that they are attuned to your struggles and understand your complicated situations. I specialize in helping individuals and couples with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relational issues. I also provide a safe space for cross-cultural adjustment, identity formation, and self-esteem enhancement. Only research-based approaches are offered so you can feel better, faster.
With my training in the Gottman Method, you and your partner can have all the tools to become more confident in handling life challenges and become more intimate.
(No Openings At the Moment) Let’s face it: life can be tough. Have you tried everything to feel calm and content, yet nothing sticks? It can be scary to get help from a counselor -- you want to be sure that they are attuned to your struggles and understand your complicated situations. I specialize in helping individuals and couples with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relational issues. I also provide a safe space for cross-cultural adjustment, identity formation, and self-esteem enhancement. Only research-based approaches are offered so you can feel better, faster.
(872) 204-1645 View (872) 204-1645
Photo of Emalee Pearson | Perinatal And Couples Therapist, LSCW, PMH-C, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emalee Pearson | Perinatal And Couples Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCW, PMH-C, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
I am a Gottman Method Couples therapist and also hold an advanced Certification in Perinatal Mental Health.
I am an individual and couples therapist in Utah and Illinois specializing in anxiety, relationship conflict, infertility, pregnancy, and postpartum mental health. Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands or maybe you and your partner are stuck in cycles of conflict and resentment. I know this can be SO hard and I also know you are not alone. If you’re ready to overcome challenges, develop healthier coping skills and improve your relationships, I'm here to help. Together, we’ll create a plan to help you navigate life’s complexities with more confidence and balance.
I am a Gottman Method Couples therapist and also hold an advanced Certification in Perinatal Mental Health.
I am an individual and couples therapist in Utah and Illinois specializing in anxiety, relationship conflict, infertility, pregnancy, and postpartum mental health. Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands or maybe you and your partner are stuck in cycles of conflict and resentment. I know this can be SO hard and I also know you are not alone. If you’re ready to overcome challenges, develop healthier coping skills and improve your relationships, I'm here to help. Together, we’ll create a plan to help you navigate life’s complexities with more confidence and balance.
(773) 232-4026 View (773) 232-4026
Photo of Xavier Durrant, Pre-Licensed Professional
Xavier Durrant
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642
What sets my therapy apart is my unique integration of evidence-based interventions like the Gottman Method for couples and somatic and EMDR interventions for individuals overcoming developmental trauma.
As a culturally competent couples & EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist with +four years of academic and clinical training, serving you uniquely is my highest regard. Some of the reasons my clients reach out include feeling stuck in familiar cycles, experiencing high levels of criticism or relational contempt, developmental trauma like sexual abuse or attachment wounds like emotional abandonment or betrayal. My approach is incremental, client-centered and holistic.
What sets my therapy apart is my unique integration of evidence-based interventions like the Gottman Method for couples and somatic and EMDR interventions for individuals overcoming developmental trauma.
As a culturally competent couples & EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist with +four years of academic and clinical training, serving you uniquely is my highest regard. Some of the reasons my clients reach out include feeling stuck in familiar cycles, experiencing high levels of criticism or relational contempt, developmental trauma like sexual abuse or attachment wounds like emotional abandonment or betrayal. My approach is incremental, client-centered and holistic.
(708) 694-7780 x710 View (708) 694-7780 x710
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 Erin O'Connor, Pre-Licensed Professional
Erin O'Connor
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I'm Level I certified in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and a member of Kink and Poly Aware Chicago Therapist (KPACT).
I'm passionate about helping folks struggling to give themselves grace and kindness, which is crucial to moving in the direction of the life we want, whatever that may look like for each individual. I work from a sex-positive, stance to help individuals and those in relationships facing the barriers and challenges in a monogamy-centric world. I’m here to partner with my clients to emphasize strengths and foster holistic wellness whether that client(s) is facing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, shame, fear, and or one of the many other challenges that come with being human in today's world.
I'm Level I certified in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and a member of Kink and Poly Aware Chicago Therapist (KPACT).
I'm passionate about helping folks struggling to give themselves grace and kindness, which is crucial to moving in the direction of the life we want, whatever that may look like for each individual. I work from a sex-positive, stance to help individuals and those in relationships facing the barriers and challenges in a monogamy-centric world. I’m here to partner with my clients to emphasize strengths and foster holistic wellness whether that client(s) is facing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, shame, fear, and or one of the many other challenges that come with being human in today's world.
(773) 915-0897 View (773) 915-0897
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 Jen Haughey, LCPC
Jen Haughey
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Park Ridge, IL 60068
I practice a collaborative form of therapy incorporating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gottman Method Couples Therapy and mindfulness-based interventions.
Are you facing challenges with relationships, a life or career transition, finding work/life balance or managing your stress? Do you feel disconnected or "off-track" from who you want to be in your life and relationships? Perhaps you feel ready to make a change. I can help you get started. Call now or use this secure form to reach out: https://www.empathic.com/cp/client/register?clinic=451.
I practice a collaborative form of therapy incorporating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gottman Method Couples Therapy and mindfulness-based interventions.
Are you facing challenges with relationships, a life or career transition, finding work/life balance or managing your stress? Do you feel disconnected or "off-track" from who you want to be in your life and relationships? Perhaps you feel ready to make a change. I can help you get started. Call now or use this secure form to reach out: https://www.empathic.com/cp/client/register?clinic=451.
(847) 986-5210 View (847) 986-5210
Photo of David Bronsveld, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Bronsveld
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Glenview, IL 60026
I also have experience using Emotionally Focused Therapy and the Gottman Method which I often apply when working with couples.
I like to work with individuals and couples of various ages and backgrounds. I enjoy working with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or relationship conflicts. Whether it be struggling with things at work, home, or other parts of your life, my hope is to be able to come alongside and empower individuals to utilize your strengths and resources. While there are several different methods of therapy, I believe in using an integrative approach by applying empirically supported treatment best suited for your needs.
I also have experience using Emotionally Focused Therapy and the Gottman Method which I often apply when working with couples.
I like to work with individuals and couples of various ages and backgrounds. I enjoy working with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or relationship conflicts. Whether it be struggling with things at work, home, or other parts of your life, my hope is to be able to come alongside and empower individuals to utilize your strengths and resources. While there are several different methods of therapy, I believe in using an integrative approach by applying empirically supported treatment best suited for your needs.
(312) 470-6927 x28 View (312) 470-6927 x28
Photo of Rachael M Jones, MS, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachael M Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
I hold my PMH-C (perinatal mental health certification), am certified in Gottman Method level 1 and 2, am a SafeZone ally, and EMDR.
Everyone's therapy needs are different! I take a collaborative, non-judgmental approach to honor those unique needs. I believe I have a responsibility as a therapist to create a safe, supportive, open environment where clients feel empowered to take an active role in their therapy process. When working with clients on concerns including anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship concerns, trauma, parenting, and work/school concerns I focus on patterns within and across generations of families, balance between connectedness and individuality, and increasing your ability to cope with and tolerate stress.
I hold my PMH-C (perinatal mental health certification), am certified in Gottman Method level 1 and 2, am a SafeZone ally, and EMDR.
Everyone's therapy needs are different! I take a collaborative, non-judgmental approach to honor those unique needs. I believe I have a responsibility as a therapist to create a safe, supportive, open environment where clients feel empowered to take an active role in their therapy process. When working with clients on concerns including anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship concerns, trauma, parenting, and work/school concerns I focus on patterns within and across generations of families, balance between connectedness and individuality, and increasing your ability to cope with and tolerate stress.
(847) 558-7477 View (847) 558-7477
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 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
Photo of Dr. Rebecca Bergen, PhD, LCP, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Dr. Rebecca Bergen
Psychologist, PhD, LCP, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Gottman Method of couples therapy and utilize family systems theory.
Explore. Understand. Grow. These three words best explain my approach to therapy. Through the establishment of a trusted therapeutic relationship, together, we will embark on the process of psychological change. We will explore what is preventing you from reaching your full potential. You will develop a greater understanding of yourself, which will facilitate your growth into the person you want to become. I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering counseling to adults, adolescents, children, and families. I have extensive experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, eating disorders, parenting issues, behavioral problems and career concerns.
Gottman Method of couples therapy and utilize family systems theory.
Explore. Understand. Grow. These three words best explain my approach to therapy. Through the establishment of a trusted therapeutic relationship, together, we will embark on the process of psychological change. We will explore what is preventing you from reaching your full potential. You will develop a greater understanding of yourself, which will facilitate your growth into the person you want to become. I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering counseling to adults, adolescents, children, and families. I have extensive experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, eating disorders, parenting issues, behavioral problems and career concerns.
(773) 877-3250 View (773) 877-3250
Photo of Grace Hicks, LCPC, NCC, MA, CGP, CCTP, Counselor
Grace Hicks
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MA, CGP, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
For couples looking for support, I utilize the Gottman Method for couples therapy.
Hello! I earned my MA from Northwestern University and have been honing my skills in private practice for six years. I use a relaxed and person-centered approach to help adults of all backgrounds authentically navigate the complexities of life. In a non-judgmental space, we will prioritize what is important to you. We will increase self-awareness by exploring relationship patterns, attachment styles, defense mechanisms, and meaningful memories. We will help daily life feel more manageable with mindfulness practice, communication/conflict management skills, and self-compassion.
For couples looking for support, I utilize the Gottman Method for couples therapy.
Hello! I earned my MA from Northwestern University and have been honing my skills in private practice for six years. I use a relaxed and person-centered approach to help adults of all backgrounds authentically navigate the complexities of life. In a non-judgmental space, we will prioritize what is important to you. We will increase self-awareness by exploring relationship patterns, attachment styles, defense mechanisms, and meaningful memories. We will help daily life feel more manageable with mindfulness practice, communication/conflict management skills, and self-compassion.
(773) 922-9005 View (773) 922-9005
Photo of Tory Krone, AM, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tory Krone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
I am intensively trained in the Gottman Method, an evidence based approach to couples therapy.
Whether your relationship is full of conflict or it feels like you have a more intimate relationship with your phones than with each other, I can help you to reconnect, reduce conflict, improve communication, break through longstanding negative patterns and arguments you have on repeat, strengthen your intimacy and relationship satisfaction. We'll focus on practical strategies that we know from decades of research to be effective. The majority of couples I've worked with tell me they notice positive changes in their patterns, greater awareness of their emotions and improved interactions after just 3-5 sessions.
I am intensively trained in the Gottman Method, an evidence based approach to couples therapy.
Whether your relationship is full of conflict or it feels like you have a more intimate relationship with your phones than with each other, I can help you to reconnect, reduce conflict, improve communication, break through longstanding negative patterns and arguments you have on repeat, strengthen your intimacy and relationship satisfaction. We'll focus on practical strategies that we know from decades of research to be effective. The majority of couples I've worked with tell me they notice positive changes in their patterns, greater awareness of their emotions and improved interactions after just 3-5 sessions.
(224) 507-6682 View (224) 507-6682
Photo of Katie Lavery, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Lavery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60612
The individuals who come to me for support are those struggling with eating disorders. We work together to identify goals that are important to you, and address some underlying self esteem concerns and lack of power within your life. Together, we take your power back, eliminating the compulsive need to control food. The second population I serve are those with marital and relationship issues. I have completed Level 1 training of the Gottman method and utilize the strategies to help couples identify the ways in which they sabotage their relationship and restore the friendship that originally brought you together as a couple.
The individuals who come to me for support are those struggling with eating disorders. We work together to identify goals that are important to you, and address some underlying self esteem concerns and lack of power within your life. Together, we take your power back, eliminating the compulsive need to control food. The second population I serve are those with marital and relationship issues. I have completed Level 1 training of the Gottman method and utilize the strategies to help couples identify the ways in which they sabotage their relationship and restore the friendship that originally brought you together as a couple.
(630) 728-1744 View (630) 728-1744
Photo of Kristen Bielat, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Kristen Bielat
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
I have completed Level 2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
I operate on the notion that everybody has the ability to be their best self. However, this often comes with many of life's obstacles and defeating such obstacles can be challenging. I can help individuals restore their confidence to overcome hardships and rediscover the tools to finding happiness. I help my clients identify specific barriers to achieving their goals and help work through them to regain the ability to lead a fulfilling life.
I have completed Level 2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
I operate on the notion that everybody has the ability to be their best self. However, this often comes with many of life's obstacles and defeating such obstacles can be challenging. I can help individuals restore their confidence to overcome hardships and rediscover the tools to finding happiness. I help my clients identify specific barriers to achieving their goals and help work through them to regain the ability to lead a fulfilling life.
(877) 780-9654 View (877) 780-9654

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.