First session. Lasts 80 minutes; the therapist speaks with both partners together, we ask you about your relationship history, why you decided to speak with a professional, what challenges you are currently experiencing and what your hopes are when it comes to therapeutic outcomes. We also talk more about the Gottman Method and explain next steps.
Assessment. After the first session we ask you to complete a thorough online assessment of your relationship which consists of questions about friendship, intimacy, emotions, values, individual areas of concern, and more. Then we ask each of you to come for a shorter, individual session of 40 minutes before we ask to see you both again.
The last part of an assessment is a feedback session in which we share with you the results of the process, indicating your strengths and challenges, suggesting the treatment plan and sharing first practical interventions.
In our experience, the assessment not only provides necessary knowledge about a couple’s relationship but holds a therapeutic value in itself. It slows partners down, encouraging reflection, it invites you to look at good and more difficult sides of your relationship and presents a detailed map of what’s the best way towards a happier relationship.
Therapeutic framework and interventions. Further sessions usually last 80 minutes and take place once every two weeks, however this is tailored to your needs. In each session we share with you techniques and strategies which are aimed to help you work through problematic areas of your relationship. These interventions are designed to replace negative patterns of behaviour with positive ones, become closer and more connected as well as prevent relapse.
Some of the techniques include:
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Quizzes and games helping you to rebuild your friendship
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Identifying positive habits you have and building new ways of connecting
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Exercises and practices to assist you in self-regulation process
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Expressing your opinion without judging or blaming your partner
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Learning how to de-escalate conflicts
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Help with getting your physical intimacy back on track