Couples Therapy
Satisfying relationships make us happier and increase our life expectancy.
Read the research here.
Partnership is inherently complex as it contains multiplicity. How do you honor your partner’s feelings, needs, and desires when they conflict with or trigger your own? Even the most compatible relationships require effort and diligence to harmonize a multi-person system. I can help you deepen your understanding of each other and create a relationship of acceptance and collaboration.
I have specialized training in the Psychobiological Approach to Couple’s Therapy (PACT). PACT is an evidenced-based method of couples counseling that works directly with your nervous systems, attachment styles, and neurodiversity to create secure, loving relationships.
PACT shines in helping couples feel more connected, learn how to fight better, and use tools to help support each other in stress (co-regulation). Learn more about PACT here. While I have seen the incredible transformational power of this modality, I also believe it has some limitations. An essential aspect of health is the ability to withstand distress with one’s internal resources (self-regulation). My idea of a successful partnership relies on both co-regulation and self-regulation. It acknowledges the importance of the attachment, while also emphasizing the responsibility of each individual as an autonomous adult. I hold a critical queer lens when utilizing PACT and I incorporate somatic therapy and parts work to supplement where necessary.
Couples therapy isn’t only for those who are struggling. You may come to see me for “relationship strength training”. Perhaps you are facing a life transition, exploring opening your relationship, or simply wanting to build a stronger foundation to weather life’s storms. I will coach you to communicate effectively and navigate any impasses with authenticity and love. Your therapy session can be a fun, exploratory space that leads to deeper intimacy!
Queer Couples Therapy
While I work with all relationships, I have expertise in treating LGBTQ+ relationships, and non-traditional relationships including adult age-gap couples and CNM/polyamory. I support folks in following what works for them over socially conditioned molds. My collaborative approach honors and uplifts the strengths that make your relationship unique and empowers you to trust that you can skillfully navigate life’s complexity as a team.