Understanding Gottman Couples Therapy: Part 1

This guide introduces the Gottman Method, the research-backed approach to couples therapy used in our Couples Programme. Developed from decades of observational research at the University of Washington, the Gottman Method gives couples a clear, practical framework for understanding what actually predicts a relationship's strength over time.

Inside, you'll learn what to expect across the phases of the programme, from initial assessment through to consolidation. You'll meet the Four Horsemen, the specific communication patterns that reliably predict relationship strain, along with the learnable antidote to each one. You'll also explore bids for connection, the small everyday moments of reaching toward a partner that research shows matter more than any single big conversation, and the "magic ratio" of positive to negative interactions found in relationships that stay strong.

This is a resource to read before your first sessions and return to throughout the programme. It closes with a short reflection prompt to help you start naming what you're hoping this work will build or repair together.