Relationship Issues

TREATMENT

When working with individuals in a relationship or couples, I pull from Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). This form of therapy focuses on staying mindful (i.e., noticing your patterns, noticing your arousal level, etc.), learning to stay calm in the moment, validate yourself and your partner, and then communicate your needs effectively.

DO BOTH MEMBERS OF THE COUPLE NEED TO ATTEND THERAPY?

While working with both members of a couple is often perceived as necessary, it isn't! An individual can certainly learn skills to better their relationship, communicate more effectively, and feel they are handling situations with integrity and self-respect. Often, modelling your new approach to communicating will disrupt your old pattern enough to encourage your partner to join you in creating a healthier relationship.

UNHEALTHY PATTERNS

It's easy to get stuck in a pattern with someone you care deeply about that just isn't healthy. If you explore the communication patterns you're currently 'stuck' in, you will likely notice they are influenced by your past relationships (including with your family of origin). Now, even though you want to have a happy relationship, you find yourself being triggered by your partner and, in turn, pushing their buttons right back.