Gottman Method for Couples Therapy in Vancouver
Is your relationship stuck in a perpetual cycle of conflict?
The Gottman Method for Couples Therapy is an approach designed to help couples strengthen their emotional connection and resolve conflicts in a healthy, constructive way. By focusing on communication, trust-building, and emotional intimacy, the Gottman Method empowers couples to develop deeper understanding, improve conflict resolution skills, and create lasting, positive changes in their relationship. Our relationship therapists can work with couples to get you there.
What is the Gottman Method?
The Gottman Method is a research-based approach to couples therapy developed by Dr. John and Julie Gottman which is designed to help partners strengthen their relationship through tools and techniques. This method focuses on improving communication, managing conflict, and deepening emotional intimacy by supporting couples to build a strong foundation of trust and understanding. The Gottman Method includes strategies for managing disagreements, enhancing affection, and fostering a sense of shared meaning. This approach aims to create a healthier, more fulfilling relationship while offering couples practical solutions to thrive together.
How does the Gottman Method Work?
Through the Gottman Method, therapists use a structured, step-by-step approach to help couples improve their relationship dynamics. Sessions begin with a thorough assessment of the relationship, identifying strengths and areas for growth. The Gottman Method provides couples with concrete skills they can use in their everyday lives to foster a happier, more resilient partnership.
The Gottman Method emphasizes the integration of practical tools and exercises to support couples with:
- Learning improved communication approaches and techniques
- Implementing new ways to manage conflicts within the relationship
- Building deeper emotional connections and strengthening intimacy
- Supporting couples to turn toward each other in moments of stress
Key techniques introduced in the Gottman Method include:
- The “Sound Relationship House” model, which includes building love maps, sharing fondness and admiration, and managing conflict constructively to create greater stability
- Education on the “Four Horsemen” which include identifying and addressing destructive communication patterns which contribute to the 4 breakdowns of relationships (criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling)
- Identifying shared dreams and values to explore collective ambitions for a shared sense of meaning and direction in the relationship
- Conflict resolution skills which support couples in productive conflict resolution by focusing on underlying needs, wants, and emotions
How do I know if the Gottman Method is for me?
The Gottman Method is designed for couples committed to strengthening their relationship and improving communication. This approach is ideal for couples who:
- Struggle with ongoing conflict or frequent arguments
- Want to improve communication and better understand each other
- Are looking to rebuild trust and intimacy after betrayal or hurt
- Seek practical tools for managing stress and overcoming challenges together
- Desire to strengthen their bond and create a healthier, more fulfilling relationship
