Relationship Therapy

Understanding Relationship Patterns

I believe that relationship challenges often stem from underlying patterns formed throughout our lives. Rather than focusing solely on current conflicts, I help couples identify recurring cycles that keep them stuck. By exploring attachment styles, family dynamics, and past experiences, we gain insight into how these patterns manifest in your current relationship.

This exploration isn’t about assigning blame but creating compassionate understanding. When we recognize that most reactive behaviors are attempts to meet deeper needs for security, validation, and connection, we can approach conflicts with curiosity rather than criticism.

Creating a Safe Space for Authentic Communication

Effective communication extends far beyond simply teaching partners to use “I statements.” I create a balanced therapeutic environment where both partners feel equally seen, heard, and validated—even when their perspectives differ significantly.

In our sessions, you’ll learn to:
– Express needs and desires with clarity and vulnerability
– Listen with presence rather than defensively planning responses
– Navigate differences without triggering fight-or-flight reactions
– Transform criticism into requests that invite connection
– Recognize and honor your partner’s bids for emotional connection

Embodied Awareness in Relationship

Our bodies hold tremendous wisdom about our relationships that cognitive understanding alone cannot access. I incorporate somatic awareness to help couples:
– Recognize how relationship stress manifests physically
– Use bodily sensations as early warning systems before conflicts escalate
– Develop co-regulation practices that soothe nervous system activation
– Explore the nonverbal dimensions of connection beyond words
– Create physical and emotional safety that allows vulnerability to flourish

This embodied approach helps partners move beyond intellectual understanding to experiential change that transforms relationship patterns at their root.

Integrating Social and Cultural Contexts

Relationships don’t exist in isolation but are shaped by broader cultural messages, social systems, and power dynamics. I help couples examine how factors like gender socialization, cultural backgrounds, and systemic inequities influence their relationship expectations and patterns.

This awareness allows partners to:
– Question limiting beliefs about relationships derived from dominant narratives
– Navigate differences in privilege and lived experience with compassion
– Create relationship agreements that reflect their authentic values rather than prescribed norms
– Address power imbalances that may be undermining connection
– Build partnerships that serve as sources of healing rather than reinforcing harmful patterns

Moving from Repair to Loving Resilience

While resolving current conflicts is important, my ultimate goal is helping couples develop relationship resilience—the capacity to navigate challenges together in ways that deepen rather than damage connection.

Through our work together, couples develop:
– Rituals for reconnection after conflict
– Practices that nurture appreciation and gratitude
– Skills for maintaining emotional intimacy during challenging times
– A shared vision for relationship growth and evolution
– The ability to transform inevitable ruptures into opportunities for deeper understanding

I measure success not by the absence of conflict but by each partner’s growing capacity for authenticity, vulnerability, and responsive presence—creating a relationship that supports both individual flourishing and profound connection.