Gottman Referral Network

About

I am a licensed clinical psychologist with an expertise in couples therapy. It is well-documented that satisfying relationships not only improve the lives of a couple, their families and their community, but also has been shown to dramatically increase longevity. I use Gottman evidence-based techniques along with a deep understanding of romantic relationships to improve relationships and increase intimacy. I also have an area of interest in Adult ADHD and often treat couples where one or both partners has ADHD. ADHD has a unique contribution to relational difficulties but can be worked through successfully. I enjoy and believe in insight-oriented therapy as well to understand better where patterns of unhelpful current behaviors may originate from childhood. I work with my individual patients and couples to acknowledge and release the destructive patterns of the past. Some things that once helped us in childhood, no longer serve us as adults.
I am a strength-focused therapist, acknowledging areas of individual strengths while gently addressing areas of vulnerability, like rejection sensitivity (RSD), anxiety or depression, or managing conflict. I believe that all people have an innate drive for healing and I work to to facilitate those healthy, natural tendencies. I believe therapy, while, at times, sad or anger provoking, is life saving and life affirming. To my mind, therapy is one of the best ways to become more whole and live up to one's full potential. Personally, I am an engaged listener with a sense of humor. I enjoy my work. Thank you for reading my profile. Debra

Special populations

I see a range of couples - those contemplating marriage or married for 40 years.