Gottman Relationship Therapy has grown in popularity over the last 40 years, internationally and now here in Australia - and there are very good reasons for this.
It is one of, if not the most, research-based methodology for couple’s therapy. It is well credentialed with studies using randomized clinical trials being published in the Journal of Family Therapy and the Journal of Family Psychology endorsing the effectiveness of the Gottman method.
More and more couples are looking towards this approach to help them with their relationship struggles, but how does one know the level of Gottman expertise and training their relationship therapist has?
There is a world of difference between a therapist using some Gottman techniques and having a rudimentary understanding of Gottman theory and practice - compared to specifically being taught through the different levels of Gottman training and the journey in becoming an endorsed Certified Gottman Therapist.
So here are three questions (and their answers) to ask your potential relationship therapist about their expertise in Gottman Therapy.
Question 1
What level of Gottman training have you completed?
Answer
Ok so there are three levels of Gottman training that therapists/ counsellors are able to complete before being able to be considered for the Gottman Certification Track program.
Level 1 training is a two-day introduction training to Gottman research, methods and interventions.
Level 2 training is three days that includes practicum experience where participants role play several Gottman inventions and take a deeper dive in issues such as addiction, infidelity, trauma and domestic violence.
Level 3 training takes the therapist/counsellor learning to the next level with three days of case consultations, clinical demonstrations, and role plays.
Finally, after completing Level 3 training and provided the trainee has also met the qualification criteria, they are eligible to enrol in the Gottman Certification Track program.
Question 2
Are you a Certified Gottman Therapist (C.G.T.) ?
The final stage of Gottman training is the Certification Track, where trainees are matched with a senior Gottman Therapist to deepen their understanding and application of Gottman Therapy. Trainee’s provide videos of their work to their consultant for feedback and learning. Eventually four videos of specific Gottman inventions are submitted for independent assessment by an independent Assessor from the Gottman institute. Once all four videos pass, the trainee is then eligible to use the credential ‘Certified Gottman Therapist’. On average the Certification track takes 18-24 months to complete.
Look out for the official endorsement badge Certified Gottman Therapists can display.
Question 3
Do you use a full assessment on our relationship including the online questionnaire called the Gottman Connect?
Therapists who are committed to the Gottman method will ensure a thorough assessment is completed to gain a clear understanding of the couple’s history, strengths, weakness and treatment goals. Generally, assessment takes the form of an initial conjoint session, and individual sessions with each person followed by a feedback session. Typically, each of these session are of 60-minutes duration. Further, the online questionnaire, Gottman Connect link should also be sent to you and your partner to fill out. Gottman Connect provides important individual and relationship information that allows the therapist to better assess and work specifically on your relationship issues.
So, therapist’s credentials and their commitment to training and ongoing learning is absolutely connected to the quality of relationship therapy delivered.
Finally, to assist in finding a Gottman Therapist in Australia you can access the following two links: