Communication Strategies for Couples: Managing Conflict & Staying Connected

“Happy ever after is not by chance. It’s by choice.” – Dr. John Gottman, PhD

Do you find yourself arguing with your partner about the same things and not getting anywhere?

Do you feel something's missing from what could be a great partnership?

Sometimes, couples want to make changes to improve their relationship, but don’t necessarily feel that they need therapy. Add the stress and uncertainty of the current pandemic, and our relationships can't help but be affected in some way. Pre-existing difficulties may be amplified or new stresses may arise. Either way, bringing intentionality to our interactions, particularly when we are vulnerable and stressed, can only be of benefit.

In this seminar, Sara will present a brief overview of key principles from the research of Dr. John Gottman that will not only help couples survive, but thrive in the pandemic and beyond. The strategies offered in this seminar are useful to all romantic partners, whatever the status or configuration of their relationships.

Participants will learn:

1. The four key behaviours that can spell disaster in relationships - and what to do instead.
2. Strategies for 'repair,' that help turn an interaction around before it goes completely off-track
3. Concrete tips for daily activities that can strengthen your connection

People are welcome to attend individually or with a partner.

Sara Marlowe, MSW, RSW provides psychotherapy to individuals, couples, families and groups in both private practice and the Mindfulness Clinic. She has trained in a variety of mindfulness-based interventions and is a certified Mindful Self-compassion (MSC) teacher. She is trained in Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), is a 7 Principles for Making Marriage Work & Bringing Baby Home Educator and uses Gottman Method Couples therapy (completed Level three Gottman practicuum).

Sara is also the author of several mindfulness related children’s books including My New Best Friend, which introduces self-compassion to children and No Ordinary Apple: A Story about Eating Mindfully. She is the parent of two children with her partner of 27 years and can be found online at www.mindfulfamilies.ca

Contact: sara @ saramarlowe[dot]com