Photo of Karen J Van Zuiden, Marriage & Family Therapist in 49686, MI
Karen J Van Zuiden
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49686  (Online Only)
I am a strength based therapist. You are the author of your story. I consider it an honor to help people on their journeys and reframe what keeps people from being their best selves. It isn't about surviving, it is about thriving. I work with many different people from age 18 to 60. I have worked with first responders, people that work in the healthcare field, and other therapists. I also work with families facing crisis and/or illnesses. When working with teens and their families, understanding what is normal behavior and what isn't while supporting everyone has worked with many families.
I am a strength based therapist. You are the author of your story. I consider it an honor to help people on their journeys and reframe what keeps people from being their best selves. It isn't about surviving, it is about thriving. I work with many different people from age 18 to 60. I have worked with first responders, people that work in the healthcare field, and other therapists. I also work with families facing crisis and/or illnesses. When working with teens and their families, understanding what is normal behavior and what isn't while supporting everyone has worked with many families.
(231) 399-8820 View (231) 399-8820
Photo of Marcie L Hester, Licensed Professional Counselor in 49686, MI
Marcie L Hester
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a client-centered therapist, I believe you are the expert in your own life. I consider it to be a privilege and blessing to be a part of your journey to find fulfillment in your life. I work from a holistic framework, holding the central hypothesis that every person has the innate potential for personal awareness and growth. I strive to maintain the creative and dynamic process of therapy utilizing theory and interventions from multiple models of therapy. I am committed to creating a therapeutic environment based on collaboration, action-oriented interventions, skill building and honest, supportive feedback.
As a client-centered therapist, I believe you are the expert in your own life. I consider it to be a privilege and blessing to be a part of your journey to find fulfillment in your life. I work from a holistic framework, holding the central hypothesis that every person has the innate potential for personal awareness and growth. I strive to maintain the creative and dynamic process of therapy utilizing theory and interventions from multiple models of therapy. I am committed to creating a therapeutic environment based on collaboration, action-oriented interventions, skill building and honest, supportive feedback.
(231) 879-5114 View (231) 879-5114

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Gottman Method Therapists

How does the Gottman method work?

One of the core doctrines of the Gottman method is that negative emotions hurt relationships about five times more than positive emotions help them. Thus, couples require five times more positive interactions than negative interactions with each other. The therapist will guide clients on how to improve communication and understanding of each other to manage conflict and have their emotional needs met. The therapist will also advise couples on how to repair relations with each other when conflict arises, and therefore avoid lasting damage.

Is the Gottman method evidence-based?

Yes, this method is an evidence-based approach to couples therapy. The method is based on more than 40 years of research by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, the psychologists who developed the method. The Gottmans analyzed decades of data to draw conclusions about what types of interactions are likely to lead to specific results, and which interventions are most likely to lead to success. Studies have found that this approach leads to improvements in relationship satisfaction, intimacy, communication skills, and a lower rate of divorce.

How long does the Gottman method take?

The duration of treatment depends on the specific challenges clients face. Sessions are typically 60 to 90 minutes long, and an average course of treatment is around 10 sessions. In some cases, such as for couples dealing with a critical problem, the therapist will suggest an intensive course of treatment, with daily sessions over the first two to four days. Treatment is complete when the couple is satisfied and has met the goals they’ve set, and when the therapist believes they have the skills to continue on their own.

Is the Gottman method effective?

Through the Gottman method, couples can achieve changes that are real and sustainable. This treatment has been used for more than 40 years; the method is supported by empirical research, including randomized controlled trials that have demonstrated effectiveness in improving relationship outcomes for couples. Like any talk therapy, success or failure depends in large part on how committed the clients are to making positive changes and working toward results.