Dr. John Gottman’s “gentle start-up” is a simple but powerful way to begin difficult conversations so they lead to connection instead of conflict. It’s especially important because Gottman’s research shows that the first three minutes of a conversation reliably predict…
Stonewalling is one of John Gottman’s “Four Horsemen” of relationship meltdown. It happens when a person emotionally shuts down in conflict—going silent, looking away, giving one-word answers, or exiting the conversation without real repair. On the outside it can look…
Becoming a therapist in Minnesota takes years of focused education, training, and supervision. Here’s a clear overview of what it looks like for two common licenses: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). Licensed…
The Gottman Couples Assessment offers couples a structured, research-based way to understand their relationship more deeply and create a clear path forward. Rather than guessing what’s wrong—or right—it gives you a detailed “map” of your strengths and challenges as a…
Learning how to control your thoughts is a key step toward better mental health, emotional balance, and personal growth. While we can’t stop thoughts from popping into our minds, we can learn to manage them in healthier, more intentional ways.…
The holiday season is meant to be joyful, but for many, it brings stress, anxiety, and overwhelm. From family obligations to financial strain and packed schedules, it’s easy to feel burned out. Fortunately, with some intentional planning and mindfulness, you…
Radical acceptance is a core concept in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) that empowers individuals to face life’s challenges with greater peace and resilience. It involves fully accepting reality as it is—without judgment, resistance, or denial—even when it’s painful or uncomfortable.…
Attachment styles play a crucial role in how we form and maintain relationships. Rooted in early childhood experiences with caregivers, attachment theory explains how these patterns influence our emotional connections as adults. Understanding your attachment style can improve communication, build…
The Gottman Method is a widely respected, research-based approach to couples therapy developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman. Built on decades of scientific study, the Gottman Method aims to strengthen relationships by enhancing communication, increasing emotional intimacy, and building…
The Internal Family Systems (IFS) model is a powerful, evidence-based approach to psychotherapy that helps individuals achieve healing and self-understanding by exploring the different “parts” within themselves. Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz in the 1980s, IFS therapy recognizes that the…
We’re a dedicated and experienced group of Independent Therapists located in Woodbury, MN and we proudly serve individuals and families from around the Twin Cities metro area.
