THERAPY TYPES
The Gottman Method
Building Stronger, Healthier Relationships with Research-Based Therapy
The Gottman Method is a structured, evidence-based approach to couples counseling that helps partners strengthen their relationship through improved communication, emotional understanding, and trust. Developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, this method is grounded in decades of research on what makes relationships succeed—or fail.
At Scarlett’s Solutions, our Gottman-trained therapist, Kenia, integrates these proven techniques to help couples reconnect, rebuild intimacy, and create lasting emotional bonds.
What Is the Gottman Method?
The Gottman Method focuses on enhancing relationship friendship, managing conflict constructively, and creating shared meaning. Using assessment tools and exercises, couples learn how to:
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Recognize and respond to each other’s emotional needs
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Build appreciation and fondness
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Manage conflict without blame or defensiveness
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Deepen empathy and understanding
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Strengthen commitment and shared goals
Beyond Romantic Relationships
While the Gottman Method is most often used for romantic partners, its principles can also help improve other important relationships — including siblings, parent-child connections, friendships, and even roommate dynamics.
By applying the same research-based tools for understanding and communication, anyone can use Gottman techniques to build stronger, more empathetic connections in everyday life.
Learn more about how we support various Relationship Challenges
The Gottman Method in Practice
During sessions, couples participate in guided discussions, assessments, and exercises designed to:
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Rebuild Emotional Connection
The therapist gathers your history, discusses your current symptoms, and identifies specific memories or traumas to target in therapy. This phase also includes assessing your readiness for EMDR.
2
Navigate Conflict Effectively
You and your therapist establish a sense of safety and trust, and the therapist explains the EMDR process. Coping techniques are introduced to help you manage any strong emotions during sessions.
3
Develop Shared Meaning
The therapist identifies a specific target memory to focus on, along with the negative beliefs tied to it (e.g., "I'm not safe"), as well as the positive beliefs you want to replace it with (e.g., "I am safe").
Through this process, partners not only resolve current conflicts but also gain lifelong tools to maintain a healthy and supportive relationship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Gottman Method in simple terms?
The Gottman Method is a research-based approach to relationship therapy that focuses on improving communication, deepening emotional connection, and managing conflict in healthy ways. It’s designed to help couples build stronger, more resilient relationships.
How is the Gottman Method different from regular couples counseling?
While most couples therapy helps with communication and understanding, the Gottman Method uses specific tools and assessments developed from decades of relationship research. These techniques help identify negative patterns and teach couples concrete skills to replace them with positive, lasting change.
Can the Gottman Method help if we’re not married or in crisis?
Absolutely. The Gottman Method is helpful for couples at any stage—dating, engaged, married, or long-term partners. It’s also beneficial for couples who simply want to improve their connection and strengthen their emotional bond before issues arise.
Who can benefit from Gottman Method therapy?
This approach helps couples experiencing frequent arguments, emotional disconnection, or trust issues. It’s also great for partners navigating major life transitions, cultural differences, or who want to rebuild closeness after conflict.
