What is the Gottman Method
What is
The Gottman Method?
The Gottman Method is an evidence-based approach to couples therapy designed to strengthen relationships by improving communication, fostering emotional connection and managing conflict in a healthy way. Developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, this research-backed method focuses on building the foundations of a strong relationship through trust, understanding and mutual respect.
How does the Gottman Method work?
The Gottman Method is a structured approach that helps couples develop practical skills to build a lasting and fulfilling relationship. Therapy sessions focus on key principles such as:
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Building Love Maps – Understanding your partner’s inner world and emotional needs.
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Turning Toward Instead of Away – Strengthening emotional connection through small, everyday interactions.
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Managing Conflict – Learning healthy strategies for handling disagreements and reducing negative communication patterns.
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Creating Shared Meaning – Building a relationship culture of shared goals, values and traditions.
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Enhancing Fondness and Admiration – Fostering appreciation and positivity in the relationship.
Therapy sessions include assessments, exercises and guided discussions to help couples develop deeper connections and resilience.
Who Can Benefit from the Gottman Method?
The Gottman Method is designed for couples at any stage of their relationship—whether dating, engaged, newly married or facing long-term challenges. It is particularly effective for couples experiencing:
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Communication difficulties
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Frequent conflict or unresolved disagreements
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Emotional distance or lack of intimacy
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Trust issues, including infidelity recovery
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Parenting and co-parenting struggles
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Stress related to life transitions
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Desire to strengthen a healthy relationship before issues arise
Catholic Charities has therapists at all our locations who have completed Level 1 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy. Therapists use the methods to help couples improve their relationship satisfaction and
long-term stability.
Catholic Charities serves people of all ages, faiths and backgrounds. We turn no one needing mental health care away for the inability to pay.
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Our services are safe, private and confidential
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We offer in-person and telehealth therapy
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Sliding-fee scale ensures there is no cost barrier
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Spanish-speaking therapists
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Free mental health assessments for any school-age child who is struggling
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Therapists use evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT and EMDR
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Therapy clients with more complex needs have access to Psychiatrist Dr. Nesrin Abu Ata, M.D.