Couples therapy process
The initial consultation session:
We meet for an initial consultation session, in which we explore what changes both of you want to see happen in your partnership. Therapy works best when each partner takes responsibility for voicing the vision they have for the relationship, is motivated to learn the skills to work as an emotional team, and is dedicated to clearing the blocks that are in the way.
Sustained positive change happens when both partners take leadership to create it. We’ll get clear on the goals and process for therapy, and what patterns each of you will need to make and break to get there. we suggest a road map, the tools, and the pacing that we think will get us to reaching your relationship goals.
Bring your desire for change, your hopes, your questions and concerns. The process is collaborative right from day one, and feedback is encouraged so that we can shape the process to meet you and your partner’s unique needs. To learn more about our integrative approach, click here.
THE DEEP WORK PHASE
Typically, the first session is a 75 minute session. After that, we meet every 1-3 weeks for 60 or 75 minute sessions, either online or in person - unless you have a different pacing in mind. Each session we’ll work on creating new relational patterns, cultivating emotional attunement, intimacy, coregulation, building relational concepts and skills, or working through a specific issue that we’ve identified. You and your partner are encouraged to discuss before each session what you’d like to work on; however we always provide gentle direction and structure.
We encourage and support each of you to show up in effective ways that move you towards your goals and give developmental assists when we see stuck areas that need to be moved through.
We “workshop” new patterns in session by practicing them. This work is experiential and happens in real-time. Be prepared to try new ways of thinking, speaking, and acting. We offer take home practices and worksheets as well.
Our work is always to see both of your strengths, desires, pain points and to help move you towards each other and the vision you two have. You can expect us to be non-judgemental, compassionate and patient every step of the way. We will also gently challenge you both when it’s needed - in the most encouraging way possible!
Every session we review progress and see if we need to pivot or change approaches. It’s common that we’ll need to try a few different modalities to see what works best for you and your partner.
If requested, we offer emailed “Relationship homework” diagrams that outlines what you each need to work on individually and together as a couple. We have learned this is the best way to strengthen followthrough and help you two get to your goals most effectively.
THE MAINTENANCE PHASE
After we’re seeing traction with the goals you and your partner identified and you two feel confident using the new relationship tools you’ve learned, ongoing maintenance sessions are encouraged every few months. You are welcome to book in as needed if that works better for you.
Maintenance sessions provide the structure to keep practicing the tools you learned in our work; stay on track with your relationship vision; and offer support for navigating life’s constant changes and challenges.
Research shows that couples who have successful long term relationships prioritize the time and space to keep strengthening their bond. Proactive care is the key for thriving partnerships!
COUPLES THERAPY RATES
60 min - $230
75 min - $290Let us help you build the attuned relationship you’ve always wanted! To learn more or book a session, send us an email today and we can get started.