Gottman Referral Network

About

Hi. I am a psychotherapist specializing in adult relationships. Prior to commencing my own practice in 2010, I had worked in schools, vocational education, & university settings for 20 years.
I love working with couples to explore the possibilities of building emotional connection and personal well being. I remain an eternal optimist as I often am privileged to observe people growing in ways they never thought possible – as individuals and as a couple. I have particular interests in assisting couples to build their spiritual connection and to manage life adversities such as chronic illness. Although trained in various models, I remain fascinated by the Gottman emphasis on evidence based research for strengthening couple friendship and positivity. These insights have also helped my own marriage of 30+ years to build our joy and unity despite life’s many challenges such as parenting, illness, grief, & separation from our interstate family.
I often observe couples commencing therapy in a state of gridlock. They may have tried a range of strategies …without success…. and are left feeling misunderstood and hopeless. This is not how they imagined their relationship would be.
They may also feel quite hesitant to attend couples counselling - in case it is like a visit to Judge Judy’s court room😊. Couples counselling under the Gottman method is not like seeing a judge - where blame and shame are publicly apportioned. Instead, the focus is upon creating a safe space where each partner can express their feelings and needs. I frequently observe how couples have greater capacity to learn new ways of relating than they had ever expected. This greater sense of mastery builds hope and trust, and can help establish much longed for emotional connection.
Some couples may remain uncertain about their future. Sessions will then provide confidential support to work through these concerns and to plan the ways forward according to their values and goals.

Special populations

couples with chronic illness; grief; healing for affairs; interest in spirituality; all couples