Couples Counseling
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It’s a common misconception that arguing signals a broken relationship. The truth is, even healthy, loving couples experience conflict. Disagreements are a form of communication—but when they become unproductive or hurtful, they can erode the connection you once cherished. In our work together, I’ll help you shift from reactive arguments to meaningful conversations. Using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), we’ll identify and soften the negative interaction cycles that keep you stuck, especially when trust has been damaged. We’ll also draw from the Gottman Method, which offers practical tools to strengthen emotional connection, manage conflict more effectively, rebuild trust, and support your shared vision for the future.
Importantly, I see the relationship itself as the client—not one partner or the other. I don’t take sides. Both of you are experiencing pain in your own way, and blame only deepens the divide. Our focus will be on the patterns that create distance, not on who’s “at fault.” While conflict can feel overwhelming, it’s also an invitation to reconnect and grow. There are many reasons couples seek therapy, and doing so does not mean you’ve failed—it means you’re willing to invest in something that matters.
Counseling is a commitment, not a quick fix. Lasting change takes time, intention, and a willingness to show up—even when it’s uncomfortable. But with consistency and care, the process can lead to meaningful growth, healing, and renewed closeness. Your relationship is likely one of the most significant parts of your life. It deserves the time and support needed to rediscover the trust, joy, and emotional intimacy you once shared.
Pre Marriage Counseling
Are you someone who tries to put together furniture or set up a new computer without reading the instructions, only to be frustrated when it falls apart or doesn’t work properly? The same thing can happen if you begin your life with someone without learning as much as you can about each other and how you relate to one another. Seeking premarital counseling doesn’t mean there is something wrong with your relationship, it means you are intentional about starting strong to better navigate the inevitable ups and downs of married life. We will dive into issues that may become obstacles later on, such as conflict resolution, finances, extended family, children, careers, intimacy, or issues that you may be bringing into the marriage from past relationships, childhood challenges, or trauma. During our work together, we will not only discuss challenges but also the strengths each of you brings to the relationship.
I recommend starting with 3-6 sessions, after which we can reassess whether you'd like to continue if there's more to explore. Additionally, I suggest planning a follow-up session a few months post-wedding. There's also an optional online relationship assessment available for about $35, which we can use as a helpful guide during our sessions.
Statistics vary, but most point to a much lower divorce rate for couples who sought premarital education than those who did not. Think of it as a small investment with a huge return for your marriage.
Marriage Therapy for Infidelity
Infidelity can deeply destabilize a marriage. After an affair, couples often experience intense emotions; anger, shame, confusion, grief, and uncertainty about whether the relationship can recover.
In my work with couples facing betrayal, I use the Atone, Attune, Attach model to guide the repair process. I begin by helping the involved partner take clear accountability and address the impact of the betrayal (Atone). We then focus on emotional processing and understanding the underlying attachment injuries that were activated (Attune). If both partners are willing, we move toward rebuilding trust and connection through consistent, meaningful change (Attach).
I work carefully and deliberately in this stage. I don’t rush forgiveness, and I don’t push reconciliation. My goal is to provide structure so couples can determine whether repair is possible and what rebuilding would truly requireFor some couples, this work leads to renewed connection. For others, it brings thoughtful clarity about next steps. Either way, the process is intentional, grounded, and honest.
Betrayal Therapy
Betrayal trauma occurs when there's a profound breach of trust with someone important to us. This might involve infidelity, financial secrets, dishonesty, or other trust violations. What sets betrayal trauma apart is that it arises when the betrayer is someone we depend on for love, security, or protection, such as a parent or romantic partner. Following this breach of trust, you might experience symptoms similar to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), such as feeling disoriented, anxious, depressed, angry, or unworthy. Physical symptoms can include headaches, high blood pressure, insomnia, stomachaches, or other forms of pain, as your body enters a Fight, Flight, Freeze, or Fix mode, making emotional regulation difficult. Over time, you might also face long-term effects like a weakened immune system and elevated cortisol levels, a stress hormone. You could become hypervigilant, always on the lookout for potential threats in your environment or in your partner's actions.
How do I get through this?
We'll start by focusing on emotional regulation to help you understand and navigate the complex feelings you're experiencing. When you're overwhelmed by intense thoughts, making long-term decisions can be challenging. I'll guide you in processing and managing both physical and emotional symptoms, paving the way for healing to begin. Afterward, we'll explore the impact of betrayal on your well-being and discuss steps toward recovery. Healing from betrayal trauma can occur through individual therapy or couples therapy. Having your partner participate in the healing process can be beneficial if they are willing and open to attending therapy sessions. If you're uncertain about the best path forward, don't hesitate to reach out, and together, we can determine the most suitable approach for you.
Taking the first step can be overwhelming
Schedule a free 15 minute consultation so we get to know each other.
