Gottman Therapy
The Gottman Method: A Roadmap to Stronger Relationships
Are you yearning for a relationship filled with trust, connection, and understanding? Look no further than the groundbreaking Gottman Method Couples Therapy, a transformative approach that has garnered immense acclaim in the field of couples therapy. Developed by renowned psychologists Drs. John and Julie Gottman, this method offers a roadmap to help couples strengthen their bonds and create lasting harmony.
What is the Gottman Method?
The method identifies key predictors of relationship success and distress from over four decades of research and thousands of couples studied. It emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, communication, and conflict resolution skills to build trust, intimacy, and connection.
In the book, The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work, co-authored with Nan Silver, John Gottman wrote, “Although you may feel your situation is unique, we have found that all marital conflicts fall into two categories: Either they can be resolved, or they are perpetual, which means they will be part of your lives forever, in some form or another.” Gottman says that 69% of marital conflicts are perpetual problems, and these are of particular focus in much of the work performed by Gottman-trained therapists.
The goals of the Gottman Method are to disarm conflicting verbal communication; increase intimacy, respect, and affection; remove barriers that create a feeling of stagnancy; and create a heightened sense of empathy and understanding within the context of the relationship. The Gottman Method is designed to support couples across all economic, racial, sexual orientation, and cultural sectors. Some of the relationship issues that may be addressed in therapy include:
- Frequent conflict and arguments
- Poor communication
- Emotionally distanced couples on the verge of separation
- Specific problems such as sexual difficulties, infidelity, money, and parenting
Techniques of the Gottman Method:
1. The Sound Relationship House: At the core of the Gottman Method lies the "Sound Relationship House," a metaphorical representation of the elements essential for a healthy relationship. This includes building love maps (knowing each other's inner world), enhancing fondness and admiration, turning towards each other's bids for attention, nurturing emotional intimacy, managing conflicts constructively, creating shared meaning, and maintaining positive perspectives.
2. The Love Map Exercise: This technique involves exploring each partner's understanding of the other's world, including their hopes, dreams, and daily experiences. By enhancing their "love maps," couples can increase emotional intimacy and connection.
3. The Four Horsemen: Dr. John Gottman identified four communication patterns that can be detrimental to relationships: criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling. In therapy, couples learn to recognize these patterns and replace them with healthier ways of expressing themselves.
4. Emotional Bids: Couples are encouraged to recognize and respond positively to each other's "bids" for attention, affection, or connection. By being responsive to these emotional bids, couples foster a sense of emotional support and validation.
5. Conflict Management: Couples are taught constructive ways to manage conflicts and disagreements. The method emphasizes de-escalating conflicts, active listening, and finding common ground instead of engaging in harmful arguments.
A Personalized Path to Lasting Love
At NewPoint of View Counseling, we believe in providing a personalized journey of revitalization and relationship strengthening, guided by our skilled therapists trained in the Gottman Method. With evidence-based techniques at our disposal, we are dedicated to nurturing trust, deepening emotional connections, and offering newfound clarity and understanding to navigate conflicts effectively. Whether you're facing minor struggles or significant relationship challenges, rest assured, our therapists will illuminate a beacon of hope and empower you with the promise of lasting love.
Embark on this transformative journey today with NewPoint of View Counseling's compassionate professionals, and witness remarkable changes in your relationship. With our expert guidance, you'll reignite the flame, build a foundation of trust, and savor a love that stands the test of time, all tailored to your unique needs and aspirations. Your love story is our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way.