Couples Therapy
I hold on to the whole picture as each individual learns, shares and grows in session. My unique approach to scheduling and session structure is aimed to provide you with guidance and space while healing from conflict and past hurts.
I assist clients in understanding how a relationship changes over time and that you do not need to lose yourself in the process. I support each partner as they learn to share their true thoughts, feelings, and desires.
My hope is that you will create clear ways to connect with and discover admiration for yourself and each other.
My
Approach
The Developmental Model for Couples Therapy
The Developmental Model is a well-respected and award winning approach to couples therapy, and I am a Graduate of The Developmental Model of Couples Therapy Training under Ellyn Bader Ph.D. at The Couples Institute.
More importantly, I have seen the concepts of this model create change very quickly in my client's relationships (I also use these concepts in my own relationships). I will guide you in reflecting on your stage of development, identifying ways to bring your authentic self to the relationship, and learning how to experience empathy with your partner.
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You will hear much more about this model if you work with me, but in a nutshell, we will
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Work with the stages of Differentiation in your relationship to combat “walking on eggshells”, feeling like you always give in or collapse into what your partner wants, living in silos away from each other, or constantly being in conflict
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Use Attachment theory to re-create feeling welcome in your relationship, without constant stalemates or rugged individualism
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Practice experiential methods based in Neuroscience to help you tolerate or better understand the triggers in your relationship
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​The Developmental Model lends itself to many tools that you will have access to after our first session.
Schedule a Free Consultation
I'd like the chance to meet you before we decide to work together.
A 20-minute consultation will give us time to discuss your hopes for therapy and questions about my approach.
Couples Therapy FAQs
01
How do you schedule couples therapy?
In the past, I have seen couples on a weekly basis for 50 minutes. I found that these sessions often ended with cliffhangers and little time for true reflection and deep understanding of how progress could be made.
I offer 90 minute sessions on an every other week basis to couples, which allows more ease in scheduling, depth of understanding in session, and time to put the quality work from session into action.
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Other benefits of in-person sessions include being outside of your usual environment so you can experience the "same old" conversations in a new environment and in a new way.
Bi-weekly sessions are also more cost effective than weekly sessions despite the longer session length.
02
Do you see clients in-person?
Yes! I offer in person sessions to couples on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons/evenings in Pioneer Square, Seattle at the Shelterwood Collective. All other sessions are conducted via telehealth across Washington and Oregon State. Please inquire about current teleheth openings. ​​
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Current In-Person Openings for Couples:
Every other Monday at 4p
Every other Wednesday at 6:30p
Every other Thursdays at 2:30p or 4:30p
03
Do you accept insurance?
I am an Out of Network Provider and am unable to bill insurance. You will receive a superbill each time we meet so you can submit claims through your insurance's process for claims as you go.
You will want to know about your insurance benefits before we begin meeting if you plan to submit claims.​ I recommend using this "Checking Your Coverage to See an Out-of-Network Therapist" questionnaire to learn more about your benefits as it relates to couples therapy.​
04
How long will we be in couples therapy?
Typically, when both partners are focused on their goals, we can get a lot of solid work done in 8-10 sessions. At this juncture, I will be happy to share my understanding of what would be most supportive for you moving forward.
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Many couples decide to continue working longer term through specific topics that have been difficult over the years or to move into work on their sex life & intimacy.