Couples Counseling, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Mindful Eating & Nutritional Psychology, & Psychotherapy

Initial Couples Therapy Evaluation

Call 510-594-8224

Reba with John Gottman at the Annual Conference 2009

The process of Gottman Method Couples Therapy begins with a 4-session evaluation period in my Rockridge, Oakland office.

Session 1 — Why You’re Here
On your first visit, you'll get a chance to talk about any specific ongoing concerns and your reasons for seeking couples therapy. You'll have the opportunity to talk about the history of your relationship and what drew you together as well as honestly look at how you're dealing with any problems now.

After the first session, both members of the couple will receive a research-based questionnaire packet to fill out. Please set aside two hours for this and bring the completed materials with you to your next visit.

Sessions 2 and 3 — Connecting Individually
During the second and third sessions, you'll each have individual time to share your thoughts about the relationship. You'll be asked some specific questions to help me better serve you.

Session 4 — Discoveries & Feedback
In the fourth session, you will both meet together. You'll receive the results of the evaluation based on the individual meeting, the joint meeting and the questionnaire packet. You'll get to hear your strengths as a couple and go over areas for improvement. Then, you'll set goals for therapy.

Session 5 and on
From the fifth session on, it gets more juicy. We’ll dive in to what matters to you, and I’ll actively coach you on how to connect emotionally in real time.

Please call 510-594-8224 to schedule your first appointment in Oakland and get thoughtful answers to any questions you may have.

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