Couples Therapy

According to John and Julie Gottman’s extensive research, couples commonly report to the following concerns:

Communication Breakdowns

Emotional Disconnection

Conflict Over Responsibilities

Finances

Sexual Intimacy & Affection

Trust & Betrayal

Lack of Goals & Vision

Inability to Resolve Recurring Conflicts

Feelings of Contempt or Disrespect

Parenting

Adult Attachment Styles: Understanding Common Characteristics
According to attachment theory (Bowlby, 1988; Hazan & Shaver, 1987), the emotional bonds we form with early caregivers play a significant role in how we relate to partners in adulthood. Building on this foundation, researchers identified four adult attachment styles—secure, anxious, avoidant, and fearful (Bartholomew & Horowitz, 1991). Recognizing your style (and that of your partner) can clarify why certain relationship challenges or patterns persist, opening a path toward healthier, more secure connections.

Secure Attachment

Comfortable with intimacy and closeness.

Trusts that partners can be depended on while maintaining personal independence.

Communicates feelings openly and confidently.

Resolves conflicts with a willingness to collaborate and compromise.

Anxious (Preoccupied) Attachment

Craves closeness yet often worries about rejection or abandonment.

May seek constant reassurance of the partner’s affection.

Tends to overanalyze the relationship, experiencing emotional highs and lows.

Can appear “clingy” or overly focused on partner approval.

Avoidant (Dismissive) Attachment

Prefers independence and self-reliance.

May downplay or dismiss the importance of close relationships.

Finds it challenging to openly express emotions or rely on others.

Can seem distant or withdrawn during conflicts or stress.

Fearful (Anxious-Avoidant) Attachment

Desires intimacy but also fears the vulnerability it brings.

May swing between seeking closeness and pulling away for self-protection.

Struggles with trusting both oneself and a partner.

Often experiences internal conflict: wanting connection yet expecting hurt or rejection.

By understanding and addressing these patterns, individuals and couples can learn to shift toward healthier ways of relating—fostering deeper connection, trust, and emotional security.

Consensual nonmonogamy involves openly and ethically exploring emotional or sexual connections with more than one partner, often requiring clear communication, mutual respect, and shared understanding among everyone involved. Couples therapy can help you navigate the unique opportunities and challenges of this relational configuration—such as establishing boundaries, managing jealousy, fostering trust, and balancing each partner’s needs. Through a supportive, nonjudgmental approach, therapy offers a safe space to clarify expectations, enhance communication skills, and cultivate secure emotional bonds, ensuring that you and your partner(s) can thrive in a way that aligns with your values and goals.