Couples Therapy
Evidence-Based Approaches to Strengthening Relationships
Decades of research in couples therapy show that partners thrive when they feel emotionally connected, communicate effectively, and have tools to navigate conflict with compassion. Two of the most well-researched and widely respected methods—Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT) and The Gottman Method—offer clear, effective pathways for improving relationship satisfaction. At OHC, we use both approaches in our work to help couples deepen their bond, repair disconnection, and build healthier patterns that last.​​
​Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT)
Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT), developed by Dr. Sue Johnson, is a leading evidence-based approach focused on strengthening emotional connection. At the core of EFT is the concept of the negative cycle—the repeating pattern couples fall into when they feel hurt, insecure, or disconnected. This cycle often shows up as pursuing, distancing, shutting down, or escalating conflict. In EFT, couples learn to recognize this cycle as the common enemy, not each other. By slowing down these moments and exploring the underlying emotions and attachment needs, partners can respond to one another with more safety, openness, and understanding. This helps reduce conflict, increase trust, and create a more secure, loving bond.
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​The Gottman Method for Couples Therapy
The Gottman Method is a highly researched, structured approach to improving relationship satisfaction and communication. A key element of this model is identifying and reducing the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse—criticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling. These communication patterns, if left unaddressed, can weaken emotional connection and increase resentment. Through therapy, couples learn practical tools to replace the Four Horsemen with healthier alternatives like gentle start-ups, taking responsibility, expressing appreciation, and practicing self-soothing. The Gottman Method also emphasizes building friendship, emotional attunement, and shared meaning, providing couples with a strong foundation for long-term relationship health.​​​​​​
​​​​How can we help you?​
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At OHC, we integrate the emotional depth of EFT with the practical strategies of the Gottman Method to offer a balanced and effective approach to couples therapy. EFT helps couples understand the deeper emotions and attachment needs fueling their negative cycle, while the Gottman Method provides concrete skills to shift unhelpful communication patterns like the Four Horsemen. Bringing these approaches together allows us to support couples in creating lasting change—strengthening connection, improving communication, and rebuilding trust. Our therapy space is compassionate, collaborative, and focused on helping both partners feel heard, supported, and empowered to build a more secure and fulfilling relationship.
Contact Us
We provide a free 15-minute consultation to connect and determine whether we are a good fit. It will also give us a better idea of the issues you are looking for support with and how we can support you.
​Are you ready to establish our healing connection? ​​​
You can also contact us from the form below or email us at hello@ourhealingconnection.ca
to request an appointment.​
