Gottman Method

What does the Gottman Method help with?

Diagram of "The Sound Relationship House" depicting building blocks for a strong relationship, including create shared meaning, make life dreams come true, manage conflict, the positive perspective, turn towards instead of away, share fondness and admiration, and build love maps. Trust and commitment form the walls of the house.

The Gottman Method is a research-based approach to couples therapy, developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman. It focuses on strengthening relationships by improving communication, deepening connection, and helping couples manage conflict in healthy ways.

The method is grounded in over 40 years of scientific research on what makes relationships succeed or fail.

  • Promotes a more comprehensive understanding of who one’s partner is as a person

  • Teaches skills to promote more effective dialogue and avoid relational pitfalls

  • Promotes expression of self in a way that is not experienced as personally attacking or threatening

  • Establishes a culture of positivity and appreciation in the couple relationship

  • Promotes cooperation and a sense of unity in dealing with day-to-day issues

  • Teaches skills for effective conflict resolution

infidelity,

communication,

conflict resolution,

intimacy,

preventing divorce,

managing differences,

infidelity, communication, conflict resolution, intimacy, preventing divorce, managing differences,

  • “Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life. Tiptoe if you must, but take a step.”

    -Naeem Callaway

Old brick building facade with fire escape ladders and a painted sign saying "How are you, really?"

What you can expect at Selah

We know that every person carries unique experiences and circumstances with them to therapy.

We believe your counselling experience should integrate a process that seeks to bring you hope and change through the following steps:

  1. You will pick whether you want to attend in-person, virtual or hybrid. 

  2. You will get started with your initial session. Relationship building is the most crucial stage during this appointment, as trust and connection are vital in the therapeutic process. It takes “on average”, two or more sessions before you can determine your fit with the therapist. We always say, “Don’t give up on counselling, but connect with a new counsellor if not a good fit.” Don’t hesitate to contact our Intake Coordinator at 519-281-1845 or intake@selahsupport.ca if not a good fit. 80% of your change in therapy is about the relationship with your therapist. 

  3. During your initial sessions, you will share your current circumstances and areas you would like to see changed, and then we will go from there. We want to get to know you.  

  4. Once you and your therapist feel you are comfortable and present concerns and desires are shared, you will begin to work through various activities, skills, and treatment methods We aim to work with you in partnership, helping you gain insight and new skills that create an environment for change. 

Let’s work together.