You may have heard of “The Gottman Method”. It was developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman and is based on over four decades of research on what supposedly makes relationships succeed or fail.
The Gottman Method is quite different from traditional couples therapy in a few key ways.
One of the primary differences lies in the Method’s foundation. Traditional couples therapy typically relies on general psychological theories, along with the individual therapist's clinical experience. The Gottman Method, on the other hand, is grounded in empirical research originally conducted by the Gottmans themselves. This research includes their groundbreaking and interesting "Love Lab" studies. These studies analyzed thousands of couples with the goal of identifying specific behaviors and communication patterns that help predict relationship stability. This approach ensures that the Gottman Method focuses on proven predictors of relationship success.
Another key distinction is the Gottman Method's "Sound Relationship House" model. This model provides an outline of a healthy relationship’s building blocks. These blocks include friendship, trust, and a shared meaning. Traditional couples therapy may use structured frameworks, or it may not … focusing more broadly on communication issues or individual psychological conflicts within a relationship.
The Gottman Method places a premium on the emotional connection. apart. While EFCT also focuses on emotions, most traditional therapy tends to prioritize resolving conflicts or addressing underlying psychological issues. This can sometimes result in looking past the importance of emotional intimacy. The Gottman Method, on the other hand, directly emphasizes fostering a deeper emotional connection and provides exercises designed to increase empathy, understanding, and mutual appreciation.
Think of the Gottman Method as being a highly practical approach to couples therapy. It provides a roadmap along with specific tools and techniques that couples can immediately apply. These tools and techniques help us develop the skills to better manage conflict, stresses, and destructive patterns within the relationship.
Sala Psychology is based in Greenwich, Connecticut. Specialties include therapy for anxiety disorders, depression, behavioral weight loss issues, and couples therapy.
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