Couples Therapy

The Gottman Method for Couples Therapy

The Gottman Method Couples Therapy, developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, is a research-based approach to couples therapy. It focuses on building a strong marital friendship, managing conflict constructively, and creating shared meaning. The method includes structured assessments and interventions designed to help couples foster respect, affection, and closeness while managing conflict in healthy, productive ways.

Is Couples Therapy Always the Right First Step?

Beginning couples therapy is often a hopeful step toward reconnection and change. In many cases, working together in the room can help partners better understand each other, repair hurt, and move forward with greater clarity.

At times, however, couples therapy may not be the most helpful place to begin. Therapy works best when both partners feel safe, emotionally regulated enough to participate, and willing to engage honestly in the process.

We may recommend individual or specialised support first if:

• There is ongoing violence, coercion, or concerns about emotional or physical safety.
• An affair is actively continuing and clarity about the relationship has not yet been reached.
• Substance use is significantly affecting communication or emotional stability.
• One partner feels pressured into attending or is not willing to participate.
• There is persistent secrecy that prevents open dialogue.
• A severe or unmanaged mental health condition is impacting the ability to engage in relational work.

These situations do not mean your relationship cannot be supported. They simply mean that stabilisation, safety, or individual work may need attention before couples therapy can be effective.