Couples Therapy

I offer couples counselling at Utkinton, near Tarporley and central Chester. See my blog for more details on the Gottman Institute approach.

I prefer to work with couples who are ready to making lasting change for the better. This includes re-committing to the relationship or working towards the most amicable separation possible. Entering into couples counselling is an important decision which needs both partners to be committed to the process. Couples who work in the Gottman method feedback that they find it a safe and structured way of communicating. I work with couples of any sexual orientation. There are some circumstances under which I would not be qualified to work with couples.

I am not able to work with couples who have additional issues which may need specialist help. This could include when some types of physical or emotional abuse is taking place. I am also unable to work with clients when complex mental health issues are present with either partner. Other mental health professionals do specialise in some of these areas. I can work in conjunction with other therapists when individual counselling is taking place for one or both partners.

I offer an initial phone call free of charge. If we agree to meet we would normally begin with an introductory joint session lasting 60 minutes, or some couples are happy to start directly with the Gottman induction phase. This would include a joint 90-minute session followed by an individual session of one hour for each partner and completion of questionnaires in your own time. Once this process has been completed we would meet again for 90-minutes and agree on areas which need work and a schedule of further sessions.

Unfortunately no form of couples therapy can guarantee success, but outcomes are improving with continued research and development of techniques. The methods I use are based on the latest research, proven to help many couples to learn how to work together to create happier, more fulfilling and longer lasting relationships. See my blog for more information.

I  can sometimes offer double or triple sessions for couples who wish to kick-start the process with a more intensive approach. Evidence is emerging that this can be a more effective way of working, although it can be more emotionally challenging.