Regardless of the reasons for seeking marital therapy, there are some fundamental skills that couples need heal from problems and continue growing and deepening their relationship together. One key element is honest and open communication which requires each partner to truly express their own wants, needs and experiences while also truly seeking to understand the wants, needs and experiences of their partner. Another important skill is basic conflict resolution rather than avoidance or escalation. I work with the individuals and the couple to develop and practice these skills while working on the specific and unique factors that may currently be causing division. I strive to help each individual realize their overall goal within the relationship, which is usually to be as close as possible to their partner, while learning to effectively take care of their emotions in the moment. The typical work in marital therapy involves weekly sessions for approximately 3 months. Following that, session frequency decreases until the couple feels they have gained sufficient skills to continue without therapy.
