EP09 Topical Panel 06 – Couples Therapy – John Gottman, Julie Gottman, Harville Hendrix, and Michele Weiner-Davis

Description:

Educational Objectives:

1. To compare and contrast clinical and philosophical perspectives of experts.

*Sessions may be edited for content and to preserve confidentiality*

Outline:

Introduction and Panel Overview

• Jeffrey Kottler introduces a panel on couples therapy featuring John Gottman, Julie Gottman, Harville Hendrix, and Michele Weiner-Davis.

• John Gottman explains his and Julie’s collaborative, research-based approach to relationships, developed alongside Bob Levinson.

• They introduce the Sound Relationship House Theory, bridging research and clinical practice.

John Gottman: Research and Relationship Theory

• The theory includes three domains: conflict, friendship/intimacy, and shared meaning.

• Most conflicts are perpetual; couples need gentle conflict management.

• Emphasizes building friendship and positive affect to reduce conflict.

• Current research includes trust-building and betrayal recovery during life transitions.

Julie Gottman: Clinical Insights

• Stresses the value of listening deeply to couples and learning from their pain.

• Addresses complex issues like trauma, unemployment, and betrayal.

• Helps couples express pain and self-soothe using new language and strategies.

• Encourages therapists to trust their clients’ resilience and foster connection.

Harville Hendrix: Imago Relationship Therapy

• Inspired by his own divorce, Harville developed Imago Therapy.

• Focuses on creating safe spaces and structured, empathic dialogue between partners.

• Shifts couples from monologs to mutual validation and appreciation.

• Views conflict as a natural part of growth and connection.

Michele Weiner-Davis: Solution-Focused Marriage Work

• Motivated by her parents’ divorce, she focuses on saving marriages.

• Works with high-conflict couples, especially facing infidelity and contempt.

• Advocates solution-focused, optimistic, and goal-oriented therapy.

• Teaches communication and relationship skills as core interventions.

Audience Q&A Highlights

• Question about the goal of keeping couples together: Michele and Harville prioritize saving marriages; John and Julie prioritize what’s best for each couple.

• Question on libido and anxiety in postmenopausal women: Julie and Michele stress emotional connection as central to sexual well-being.

• Question on individuation in marriage: Panelists explore balancing differentiation with emotional closeness, with varied approaches.