Many couples reach a point where they feel disconnected and unable to find their way back to each other. Even more couples complain of a lack of communication or a loss of intimacy. This does not have to be the permanent direction of your relationship. Together we can work on understanding the interactions and ruts that you have fallen into over your time together as a couple. There are common bumps in the road that many couples hit and sometimes we just get stuck. By working with someone who specializes in relationships and couples we can identify those areas and work on reestablishing connections, improving communication and ensuring that you are facing that bumpy road together.
Couples therapy not only reduces conflict and improves communication. Research has also shown that couples therapy can be effective in helping with individual issues like depression and anxiety. We are impacted by the relationships in our lives and working to improve those can cause ripples that lead to changes and improvements in multiple areas of our lives.
There are many specific models for relationship counseling. Below are a few that Cedar Rapids Relationship Center believes strongly in and have actively pursued additional trainings:
The Gottman Method Couples Therapy
Originally developed by Dr. John Gottman, this model is based on Gottman’s 40 years of extensive research on couples in all stages of relationships. He has found that contempt, criticism, stonewalling, and defensiveness are the root of many marital conflicts. Gottman Method Couples Therapy is a structured, goal-oriented therapy that uses research-based interventions and exercises to increase respect, affection, and closeness while also managing and resolving conflicts. It helps couples break through barriers to achieve a greater level of connection and intimacy in their relationships. Jennifer Gage has completed Level 1 and 2 of training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is an approach that was developed by Sue Johnson and Les Greenberg. Johnson found that couples in distress were caught in a dance of negative interactions that kept them stuck and unable to resolve their conflicts. Using the theory of attachment and working to express primary emotions, therapists are able to help couples break the negative cycles and form secure bonds with their partners. EFT is one of the most researched forms of couples therapy and a substantial body of research outlines its effectiveness. Jennifer Gage has taken a special interest in using EFT with her clients and has attended many additional trainings in this area.