Relationship Therapy
Helping adults address struggles with their relationships through all stages
What to Expect with Relationship Counseling?
I have received extensive training over the past 15 years to implement the best research-based models for couples therapy and individual therapy to explore relationship dynamics. I work with individual and couples in all stages of relationships (single, dating, engaged, married).
All couples therapy begins with an extensive assessment process and feedback over the first 3 sessions to make sure I have a complete understanding of your relationship dynamic and needs before getting started on your goals. All couples therapy appointments last 90 minutes in order to have plenty of time during each session to process through both partner’s experiences.
Premarital Counseling
Research shows that premarital counseling can help create a better foundation for starting your marriage and gain skills to maintain a healthy long-term relationship.
For pre-marital counseling, I utilize the Prepare-Enrich Assessment and exercises to help couples increase their awareness of:
Strength and growth areas of the relationship
Communication Skills (Assertiveness, active listening)
Stress management
Conflict resolution
Family of origin dynamics (including how to set boundaries)
Personality profiles to balance differences and goals
Financial management
Relationship roles
Expectations for affection and sexual relationship
Future goals (parenthood, leisure activities, etc.)
I recommend at least 8 sessions for couples to have time to understand all the areas of their relationship, complete all the needed exercises from the assessment, and explore deeper any concerns that arise. After completing 6 hours of premarital counseling, couples can receive a discount on their marriage license. More information can be found at https://www.usmarriagelaws.com/marriage-license/georgia/probate-courts/county-clerks/office-requirements/
For additional information on the Prepare-Enrich method and research, please visit the following link: www.prepare-enrich.com
Marriage Counseling
Research shows that marriage counseling can be highly effective in improving communication, enhancing intimacy connections, identifying unhealthy patterns, rebuilding trust, navigating life transitions, stress management, preventive maintenance, and individual growth.
It's important to note that the effectiveness of marriage counseling depends on the willingness of both partners to actively engage in the process. Additionally, seeking help early on can contribute to better outcomes in resolving relationship issues.
For marriage counseling, I utilize the highly effective evidence based Gottman Method assessment and exercises to help couples regain awareness of their relationship strengths and learn the following strategies to repair through struggles:
Conflict management
Communication skills to increase assertiveness and active listening
Strengthen emotional or physical intimacy
Rebuilding trust following emotional injuries, betrayals, or affair
Increase respect or admiration for each other
Creating shared meaning around differences in finances, parenting, household management, etc.
For additional information on the Gottman method and research, please visit the following link: www.gottman.com/about/the-gottman-method/
Individual Counseling for Relationship Issues
Are you having problems being assertive or setting boundaries with intimate partner, friends, family, or colleagues?
Do you want to work on your relationship but your partner refuses to attend couples therapy?
Are you needing to heal from past relationships hurts or trauma to start a new relationship with a healthy foundation?
Individual counseling can be highly beneficial for addressing a variety of relationship concerns including:
Personal Insight and growth: Individual counseling allows a person to gain deeper insight into their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors within the relationship. Increasing self-awareness and growth can contribute to improved relationship dynamics.
Improved Self-Esteem: Addressing personal issues in therapy can lead to increased self-esteem and self-confidence, which can positively impact how individuals interact within their relationships.
Emotional Regulation: Learning effective emotional regulation skills is crucial for healthy relationships. Individual counseling can help individuals manage and express their emotions in a constructive manner.
Identifying and Changing Patterns: Counseling can assist individuals in recognizing and understanding patterns of behavior that may contribute to relationship challenges. Once identified, these patterns can be addressed and modified.
Communication Skills: Individual counseling often includes guidance on improving communication skills, which can enhance interactions with others and contribute to healthier relationship dynamics.
Setting Boundaries: Establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries is essential in any relationship. Individual therapy can help individuals define and communicate their boundaries effectively.
Conflict Resolution Strategies: Individual counseling can equip individuals with the tools needed to navigate conflicts in a constructive manner which is crucial for any relationship success.
Healing from Past Trauma: Individuals may carry unresolved trauma from the past, impacting their current relationships. Counseling provides a safe space to address and heal from past wounds which promotes healthier relationship interactions going forward.
Get Started With Therapy
Call (470) 281-0866 to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation