What is the Gottman Method?
The Gottman Method is a research-based couples therapy modality that aims to help couples build stronger relationships using a framework known as the Sound Relationship House.
When working with couple/polycule clients, I start by learning about your relationship and your goals for therapy. I then administer an online assessment called Gottman Connect (note: for polycules, I modify this process to be more poly-friendly). After we get our results, we will analyze your relationship story in the context of the Sound Relationship House and tackle your goals as we go.
For more information about the Gottmans and the research behind this method, please click here.
Will the Gottman Method work for my partner(s) and I?
While I never like to be dogmatic about any one therapy method, I have consistently seen couples of all gender combinations, backgrounds, and presenting issues improve their communication drastically through Gottman interventions. This method will probably jive well if you love research, enjoy doing in-session exercises, and feel ready to improve your conflict style.
Please note that although the Gottmans have research demonstrating efficacy with queer couples, they do not yet have research around working with polyamorous relationships. As such, I still incorporate Gottman into my polycule work, but this work is heavily guided by the work of poly experts such as Jessica Fern, Eve Rickert, and Dr. Elisabeth Sheff.