A Space for Inquiry

Despite months or years of intimate connection between partners, some important aspects of the relationship remain unknown, misunderstood, or denied. Assumptions about the way things "should" be, can become sources of friction, and shared experiences are often perceived very differently. My work with couples aims to engage these differences and the defenses that protect them from being fully understood.

Many of the mechanisms that underlie conflict predate the relationship, and are often learned years earlier through adaptation within a family or community. The way we orient to others in general can inform expectations and beliefs about our partner. These frameworks can provide comfort and invite closeness, while sometimes making trust and vulnerability more difficult. In my work with clients, we seek to address the sources of emotional distress that lead to conflict, and develop more effective ways to communicate complicated truths.

Areas of Practice

Couples therapy can include any dyadic work in which two people seek to address concerns in their relationship. This often involves conflict between romantic partners or spouses, as well as premarital counseling for those considering a long-term commitment. Couples work can also help family members, friends, roommates, co-founders, or colleagues seeking to improve or repair their relationship dynamics.

My approach is informed by psychodynamic principles and often includes developing communication skills and empathy, while identifying behavioral goals that can support meaningful change.

It is common for individuals to seek therapy in order to better understand how they relate to others, the strengths they can build on, and areas for learning and improvement. It can also be helpful to have a dedicated space in which to process material that emerges in couples sessions. I have witnessed meaningful change when individual and couples therapy take place concurrently, particularly when clients learn to listen and be heard in new ways. Individual therapy can help clients refine a preferred sense of self, often essential to staying present with relationship challenges and creating space for partners to do the same.

Get in touch

I offer a free 15 minute consultation. Feel free to reach out with questions and concerns.

Begin the dialogue.

Sessions take place in my comfortable office located near the center of San Francisco.