Couples

Couples therapy isn't just about fixing what is broken.  Therapy can be a tool to help set the groundwork for a solid foundation for the future.  It can also be useful for couples that have experienced constant conflict and/or infidelity in their relationships.  Therefore, whether you are taking preventative measures or are seeking to repair, couples therapy can help.

Communication

I help couples identify problematic communication patterns that may be creating a negative cycle in their relationship.  Typically when a person starts a relationship they bring with them all of their hopes and dreams about what they believe the relationship will be.  At times, these hopes and dreams can be conflicting.  What's important is understanding that both sets of hopes and dreams are valid despite being different.

When people are trying to hold onto their hopes and dreams, they may commit relationship offenses that create negative defense mechanisms and resentments.  I help couples identify these negative defense mechanisms and replace them with healthy relationship habits.  Having a relationship free of judgment and blame can be rewarding and fulfilling.

Let me help you reach your relationship goals.

Infidelity

Have you recently discovered your partner has been unfaithful?  In the past did you make a promise that if your partner was ever unfaithful that would be the end?  Are you now feeling conflicted and uncertain about what to do?  Maybe you have a family together.  Maybe you have committed years of your life to your partner.  You're not alone.  It is not uncommon to have conflicting feelings about what to do.  Therapy can provide insight and clarity in a time full of painful emotions.

What should you expect when attending therapy after an affair?

The process consists of three phases.  The first phase is addressing the emotions of each partner and restoring as much balance as possible to the day-to-day tasks and interactions.  The second stage consists of identifying contributing factors, which consists of relationship issues, outside factors and/or issues experienced by the individual partners.  The purpose of identifying contributing factors is to gain the insight to develop an understanding of how things have come to be.  The third and final phase consists of the subject of forgiveness and addressing barriers to moving forward.  In the third phase the couple will have worked through the process to acquire the insight to help them make the decision to move forward as a couple, or to move on individually.