Gottman Referral Network

About

Trained as a family systems therapist, I always try to keep patterns of interaction in mind, as I work with couples. The training in the Gottman Method has really aided me to begin with a thorough evaluation. Out of that evaluation comes a much more focused and informed treatment plan. I strive to focus on the relationship as my client, preferring to see individual issues as, at least partially, outgrowths of the problematic interaction. Certainly there times individual issues must be addressed, however I must address these in a way that does not point fingers at one partner over the other. Anther way to put it is that I see my role more as a dance instructor. Helping couples move together rather than focusing on all the individual mistakes.

I also work from a spiritually informed perspective. I got into marital therapy as a result of my first career as a youth minister. I saw youth struggling, and more often than not, those youth had parents who struggled in their marriage. The majority of my clients do identify as Christian, and my background and training does help me to relate and access resources that they value. However it does not limit my clientele to only Christians. I strive to discuss with all my clients their comfort level with including a spiritual perspective, and I am more than willing to eliminate that focus should they prefer.

Special populations

Christian, Military