Gottman couples therapy begins with an assessment of the relationship that then informs the therapy process. The assessment is called the Gottman Relationship Checkup.
The therapy process will include:
Each partner establishing a relationship with the therapist by sharing their history, their relationship philosophy, and their goals for treatment.
Undergoing a thorough inspection of the union, including engaging in discussion of a topic on which partners disagree.
Learning the research-derived components of healthy relationships.
Bolstering the fondness and respect that first brought the partners together.
Direct coaching from the therapist on interaction skills and developing trust.
Acquiring tools for checking and maintaining relationship health beyond therapy.
The Gottman Method focuses not only on providing practical skills for managing relationships, but on delivering deeper insight into how the relationship dynamics developed.
The length of treatment depends on the severity of a couple’s challenges. Researchers have studied it using ten sessions as a benchmark, but the duration is ultimately a decision made by the couple and the therapist.
