Portland Wellness Counseling works with couples at all stages to facilitate the creation of secure, lasting bonds and find creative solutions for entering into deeper and more fulfilling relationships. This is done by reinforcing any preexisting positive bonds, identifying negative patterns in the relationships, establishing realistic ways to solve problems, expanding emotional awareness, and finding new ways to increase security, closeness and connection.
As a classically trained Marriage and Family therapist extensively trained in Family Systems Therapy, my approach is also largely inspired and informed by Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT-C), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Mindfulness Based Interventions and the Gottman Method.
EFT-C and the Gotten Method are evidence based practices that utilize the most up to date research that certain behavioral changes and emotional sharing can be a powerful source of healing. Research shows that EFT-C can reduce distress in 75% of couples, while 90% of couples will experience lasting relationship improvement when the wisdom of the Gotten Method is applied.
Marriage counseling and couples counseling sessions are unique to each couple and their relational style. Together we will work toward strengthening your connection in a way that feels comfortable for you.
Common Challenges:
- Betrayal and infidelity
- Commitment issues
- Criticism, blaming, contempt, and defensiveness
- Different communication styles
- Differences in parenting
- Disconnection
- Extended family difficulties
- Jealousy and trust issues
- Occupational or financial stress
- Sexual intimacy and disconnect
- Spiritual or religious differences
- Mental/physical health issues
Common Benefits of Couples Counseling:
- Better capacity to handle future difficulties
- Compassionate understanding
- Enhanced emotional and physical connection
- Healing of infidelity or past hurts
- Increase in honesty and trust
- Improved relational responsibility
- More effective communication
- New ways to solve problems
- Stronger attunement