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MODALITY:
Gottman Method Couples Therapy

Gottman Method Couples Therapy: Strengthening Connection Through Research-Based Tools

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Gottman Method Couples Therapy is a structured, evidence-based approach developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, based on over 40 years of research with thousands of couples. This method helps partners improve communication, deepen emotional connection, and manage conflict in healthy, respectful ways.

 

At Wellness Counselling Centre, we use Gottman Method strategies to support couples in building a strong foundation of trust, understanding, and shared goals—whether you're navigating challenges, recovering from disconnection, or simply looking to enhance your relationship.

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How the Gottman Method Can Help

​Gottman Method Couples Therapy is effective for couples facing:

  • Communication Challenges – Difficulty expressing needs or resolving misunderstandings

  • Conflict & Tension – Recurring arguments, criticism, or defensiveness

  • Emotional Disconnection – Feeling more like roommates than partners

  • Parenting & Life Transitions – Navigating stress from career shifts, new parenting roles, or caregiving

  • Trust Issues or Betrayal – Rebuilding emotional safety after infidelity or breaches of trust

  • Intimacy & Affection Concerns – Restoring closeness and physical/emotional connection

The Gottman Method helps couples replace negative patterns with constructive habits, using practical tools that foster empathy, connection, and teamwork.ge.

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Who Can Benefit from Gottman Couples Therapy?

​This approach is well-suited for:

  • Couples in Long-Term Relationships – Looking to reconnect, improve communication, or strengthen their bond

  • Newer Couples – Seeking support in setting a strong foundation

  • Parents & Co-Parents – Managing parenting stress and aligning on values

  • Couples in Conflict – Working through recurring arguments, resentment, or trust breakdowns

  • Partners Recovering from Infidelity – Rebuilding trust and emotional security after betrayal

Whether you're in crisis or simply looking to grow closer, the Gottman Method can provide a clear framework to support meaningful, lasting change..

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What to Expect in Gottman-Informed Couples Therapy

​Sessions focus on identifying strengths and areas for growth in the relationship, using tools such as:

  • The Sound Relationship House – A framework to help couples understand what creates lasting relationships

  • Love Maps – Exploring each other’s inner world to foster understanding and closeness

  • The Four Horsemen – Identifying and replacing criticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling with healthier communication

  • Repair Attempts & Conflict Management – Learning how to de-escalate conflict and restore connection

  • Shared Meaning & Rituals of Connection – Building rituals, goals, and values that support a thriving partnership

Therapy may also include home exercises or activities to support connection between sessions.

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Our Approach to Couples Therapy

At Wellness Counselling Centre, we often blend the Gottman Method with other evidence-based modalities to support a more holistic relationship experience:

  • Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) – Supporting deeper emotional connection and secure attachment

  • Attachment-Informed Therapy – Exploring how early relational patterns influence connection and trust

  • Mindfulness-Based Therapy – Helping couples stay present and regulate emotions during conflict

  • Trauma-Informed Approaches – Ensuring emotional safety when past experiences impact the relationship

This integrative approach supports couples in creating safe, connected, and intentional relationships—no matter where they are on their journey.

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Build a Stronger, More Connected Relationship

Whether you're facing conflict or simply seeking to strengthen your relationship, Gottman Method Couples Therapy provides research-backed strategies to deepen understanding, rebuild trust, and grow together.

Our Therapists Who Use Gottman Method for Couples Therapy

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Caitlin Watson, MACP
Registered Psychotherapist
(Qualifying)

caitlin@wellnesscc.ca

Cindy Rose, M.A., CCTP
Registered Psychotherapist
Certified Clinical Trauma

cindy@wellnesscc.ca

Helping You Move From
Hurt To Hope.

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