Transform Your Relationship with The Gottman Method
Michelle Bell, LCMHC, is trained in The Gottman Method of Couples therapy from the Gottman Institute. She has successfully completed the core content and clinical levels 1 and 2.
What is the Gottman Method?
The Gottman Institute offers extensive training in the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy, a science-based approach designed to help couples build stronger, healthier relationships.
Why Choose the Gottman Method for Couples Counseling?
✔ Backed by Over 40 Years of Research – Developed from studying thousands of real couples.
✔ Effective Conflict Resolution Strategies – Learn how to navigate disagreements with respect and understanding.
✔ Deepen Emotional Connection – Strengthen intimacy and build lasting love.
✔ Structured, Goal-Oriented Approach – Sessions focus on measurable progress rather than open-ended discussions.
✔ Helps All Relationship Stages – Whether you’re dating, engaged, married, or facing challenges, the Gottman Method is for you.
First Session: Laying the Foundation for a Stronger Relationship
Starting couples therapy can feel like a big step, but think of it as an investment in your relationship—one that helps you grow closer, communicate better, and navigate challenges together.
The first three sessions help us understand your unique dynamic while getting to know each of you as individuals:
Session 1: Intake – 90 minutes (Both partners together)
Session 2: Individual Session – Partner 1 (45 minutes)
Session 3: Individual Session – Partner 2 (45 minutes)
What to Expect in Your First Session
This is your space to share your story, your strengths, and what’s been challenging in your relationship. Together, we’ll start mapping out how therapy can help.
Open & Comfortable Conversation – A no-judgment zone where both of you can feel heard.
Your Relationship Journey – How you met, what’s brought you closer, and what’s been tough.
Identifying Strengths & Challenges – We’ll explore communication, conflict patterns, and emotional connection.
How Therapy Works – An introduction to the Gottman Method and how we’ll work together.
Key Gottman Principles We’ll Introduce:
Building Love Maps – Deepening your knowledge of each other’s world.
Turning Toward Instead of Away – Strengthening everyday connection.
Managing Conflict Effectively – Learning strategies to navigate disagreements in a healthy way.
After the First Session
You’ll complete the Gottman Relationship Checkup, a research-backed online assessment that helps us get a clear picture of your relationship’s strengths and areas for growth.
This is just the beginning of strengthening your bond!
Second Session: Your Individual Sessions
After the initial intake, the second session is split into two individual sessions, where each partner meets one-on-one with the therapist. This is your time to share openly without interruption, allowing us to better understand your individual experiences and relationship perspectives.
What to Expect in Your Individual Session
Your Personal Story – Exploring childhood experiences, past relationships, and personal challenges that may impact your relationship today.
Your Perspective on the Relationship – Sharing thoughts and feelings without influence from your partner, allowing deeper self-reflection.
Your Personal Goals & Expectations – Defining what you hope to achieve in therapy and how we can support you in that journey.
Attachment & Emotional Needs – Understanding how early experiences shape your relationship patterns and responses.
Space for Individual Concerns – Some topics are easier to discuss privately before bringing them into joint sessions—we honor that.
What Happens After the First Two Sessions?
By the third session, we will:
Review the results of the Gottman Relationship Checkup and discuss relationship dynamics.
Identify communication and conflict patterns that need attention.
Introduce Gottman-based interventions to strengthen connection and understanding.
Set clear goals for therapy that align with both partners’ needs.
Why This Process Matters
Creates a clear and structured path for therapy.
Ensures each partner feels heard and understood individually.
Builds a strong foundation for long-term relationship success.
Taking time for these individual reflections helps us create a customized approach that truly fits your relationship. Looking forward to continuing this journey with you!