Susan has been assisting couples for over 25 years. She primarily utilizes an emotionally focused approach developed by Susan Johnson and Les Greenberg. Knowledge from significant researchers such as John Gottman is also integrated into her work.
Individual and joint sessions
Typically the first session with a couple is an assessment. Both individuals are present in this session. A history of the relationship is obtained and each individual’s hopes and concerns regarding the relationship are heard.
Two individual sessions are often then scheduled. This is an opportunity for Susan to gain a better sense of each member of the couple as an individual. The session is primarily historical, exploring family history and past relationship histories. There is also the option to do this in a joint session.
Following the individual sessions, counselling sessions tend to be joint sessions and are typically one or 1.25 hours in length.
Couple’s issues
Some of the issues which are appropriate for couples work are communication and intimacy issues, negative interactions and arguing, lack of positive appreciation, family or parenting difficulties, and past infidelity. Attempts to enhance an already “good” relationship or premarital counselling is also very appropriate.
Couples in which there is current physical abuse occurring are best seeking alternative specialized help.