Looking for a Gottman Psychologist Based out of Vancouver, British Columbia? What to Expect When Doing Gottman Therapy with a Psychologist

For several weeks, this blog has explored trauma healing, particularly through EMDR. We've discussed how past wounds shape our nervous systems, relationships, and sense of safety in the world. But healing doesn’t happen in isolation—it also happens through connection.

That’s why, going forward, I’ll be expanding this blog to more intentionally explore the complexities of relationships—and how they intersect with individual healing. Before, during, or even after deep trauma work, many people find themselves struggling with communication, emotional disconnection, or repeated cycles of conflict with their partners. This is where the Gottman Method comes in. Rooted in decades of research, Gottman Couples Therapy offers science-backed strategies to help couples build trust, manage conflict, and deepen intimacy.

In this post, we’ll explore the core principles of the Gottman Method and how it can complement trauma-informed work, creating stronger, more resilient relationships. When couples seek therapy, they often feel overwhelmed by the many different approaches available.

Gottman Couples Therapy is one of the most respected and research-backed methods, developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman. This approach is based on over 40 years of research into what makes relationships succeed or fail. If you're considering working with a Gottman Psychologist, here's what you need to know about the process and how it differs from other forms of couples therapy.

Why Choose Gottman Couples Therapy?

When couples seek support, they’re often overwhelmed by the sheer number of therapy models available. Gottman Couples Therapy stands out for its empirical foundation, structured approach, and long-term results.

Developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, this method is rooted in 40+ years of research observing real couples—identifying what makes relationships thrive or unravel. If you’re considering working with a Gottman-trained psychologist, here’s what you can expect and why it may be the right fit for you.

What is Gottman Therapy?

Gottman Therapy is a structured, evidence-based approach designed to help couples build stronger, healthier relationships. The foundation of this therapy is the Gottman Method, which emphasizes:

• Developing a deep understanding of each other’s world

• Strengthening positive feelings and appreciation

• Improving connection and responsiveness

• Seeing the relationship with optimism rather than negativity

• Learning healthy ways to navigate disagreements

• Supporting each other’s aspirations

• Developing a sense of togetherness and purpose

Gottman Psychologists use these principles to assess a couple’s relationship dynamics and provide tailored interventions to improve communication, connection, and conflict resolution.

What to Expect When Working with a Gottman Psychologist

When you begin Gottman Therapy, you can expect a structured process that includes:

1. Comprehensive Relationship Assessment

Gottman Psychologists start with an in-depth evaluation. This includes individual and joint sessions, as well as the Gottman Relationship Checkup, a research-based questionnaire that identifies relationship strengths and challenges.

2. Personalized Treatment Plan

Unlike generic therapy approaches, Gottman Therapy tailors interventions specifically to your relationship needs. Based on your assessment, your therapist will develop a roadmap to help you improve communication, intimacy, and conflict resolution skills.

3. Practical, Research-Backed Techniques

Gottman Psychologists teach couples practical tools to strengthen their relationship, including:

• Softened Start-Up: How to bring up issues without triggering defensiveness

• The Four Horsemen Intervention: Replacing criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling with healthy alternatives

• Aftermath of a Fight: Structured repair conversations for post-conflict healing

• Daily Stress-Reducing Conversations: Strengthening emotional connection in everyday moments

4. Ongoing Skill-Building and Support

Gottman therapy isn’t just about resolving present-day conflict—it’s about equipping couples with lifelong skills to maintain and deepen their connection.

How Gottman Therapy Differs from Other Couples Therapy Approaches

While many couples therapy methods focus on communication skills, Gottman Therapy stands out in several ways:

1. Scientific Research Basis

The Gottman Method is rooted in decades of empirical research. The Gottmans conducted extensive studies observing couples in real-life situations, identifying behaviors that predict relationship success or failure with over 90% accuracy.

2. Focus on Relationship Strengths

Rather than just fixing problems, Gottman Therapy emphasizes building on what works in the relationship. Many other approaches focus mainly on conflict resolution, while Gottman Therapy nurtures fondness, admiration, and shared meaning.

3. Emphasis on Emotion Regulation

Unlike some traditional approaches that emphasize logic-based problem-solving, Gottman Therapy integrates emotional intelligence—helping couples recognize and manage their emotions effectively.

4. Structured and Measurable Approach

Gottman Therapy provides couples with concrete tools and a clear framework to follow. Many other therapy models are more exploratory and less structured, which may not be as effective for couples seeking clear guidance.

5. Proven Long-Term Success

The Gottman Method is designed for lasting change. Couples don’t just resolve current issues—they learn tools to strengthen their relationship for years to come. Other therapy approaches may offer short-term relief without providing long-term strategies for maintaining connection.

Is Gottman Therapy Right for You?

If you and your partner are seeking a science-backed, structured, and emotionally supportive approach to relationship healing, Gottman Couples Therapy may be an ideal fit. Whether you’re facing high-stakes conflict or simply want to deepen your connection, working with a Gottman Psychologist can offer the insight and tools you need to grow together.

Ready to strengthen your relationship? Reach out today to learn more about how Gottman Therapy can support a more connected, resilient partnership. Looking for more guidance on building stronger relationships? Browse our full collection of Gottman Method and Relationship Therapy blog posts.

*This blog post was developed with the assistance of AI, which helped organize and enhance the content. The final content has been reviewed and refined to ensure it aligns with our values and to ensure it provides valuable insights to our readers.

Dr. Rukavina, is a licensed psychologist based in Burnaby, BC, specializing in couples therapy. She helps couples work through conflict, infidelity, and other relationship concerns using Gottman Method Couples Therapy and other evidence-based techniques. Dr. Rukavina offers a compassionate and grounded approach to support coupels on their journey toward healing and growth. Learn more at drrukavina.com.