Couples Therapy

Today, two of the most widely respected models for couples therapy are Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method. Each is rooted in decades of research, and both offer a roadmap for couples longing to rebuild trust, communication, and emotional closeness.

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

Founded by Dr. Sue Johnson, Emotionally Focused Therapy views relationship distress primarily through the lens of emotional bonds and attachment needs.

Rather than focusing only on solving specific problems, EFT works to strengthen the underlying emotional connection between partners.

In EFT, couples learn to:

• Identify the negative interaction cycles they get stuck in
• Understand the raw, vulnerable emotions driving conflict
• Express deeper needs and fears in ways that invite connection rather than distance

A central belief in EFT is that many relationship struggles are not truly about the "issue" at hand, but about a desperate need for reassurance: Are you there for me? Can I count on you?

By fostering new patterns of emotional responsiveness, EFT helps couples move from cycles of conflict to cycles of connection.

Research shows that 70–75% of couples who complete EFT experience significant improvement — and those gains tend to be lasting.

The Gottman Method

John and Julie Gottman developed their approach based on over 40 years of research with thousands of real-life couples. The Gottman Method focuses heavily on how couples communicate, manage conflict, and maintain friendship over time.

Key principles include:

• Building a strong foundation of friendship by truly knowing each other's inner worlds
• Learning how to manage, not eliminate, conflict
• Replacing negative communication patterns (criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling) with healthier alternatives
• Strengthening trust, commitment, and shared meaning in the relationship

In Gottman Method therapy, couples often begin with a thorough assessment, followed by skill-building exercises designed to deepen emotional connection, improve conflict resolution, and reignite intimacy.

Rather than viewing conflict as the enemy, the Gottmans teach that conflict is inevitable — and manageable when couples have the right tools.

Choosing the Right Approach

Both EFT and the Gottman Method have proven success in helping couples heal and strengthen their relationships.

While EFT may resonate more with couples whose struggles center around emotional disconnection, attachment wounds, or unmet relational needs, the Gottman Method may feel especially supportive for couples seeking practical tools for communication, conflict management, and daily connection.

In practice, many skilled therapists weave together elements of both approaches, tailoring the process to the unique needs of each couple.

What matters most is not which model you choose, but that you find a space where both partners feel seen, heard, and supported.

A Closing Word

Reaching out for help is an act of hope — a belief that healing is possible and that your bond is worth fighting for.

Whether you are working to repair broken trust, rediscover intimacy, or simply communicate with greater care, couples therapy offers a safe place to grow together.

Your relationship is not beyond repair.

With the right guidance, new patterns of trust, connection, and joy are within reach.

If you sense it’s time for a change, know that our practice can provide support — and that taking the first step can open the door to a stronger, healthier future together.