How We Work
Gottman Method
The Gottman Method is one of the most rigorously researched approaches to couples therapy, developed by Drs John and Julie Gottman over four decades of studying what makes relationships work — and what causes them to break down.
Evidence-based · Research-backed · Couples & Relationships · Brisbane, Creswick & Online
What Is the Gottman Method?
What the research says about lasting love
The Gottman Method is grounded in data from decades of observational research with thousands of couples. From this work, Drs John and Julie Gottman identified specific patterns — what they call the 'Four Horsemen' (criticism, contempt, defensiveness, stonewalling) — that predict relationship breakdown, as well as the behaviours that predict lasting connection.
Rather than generic relationship advice, the Gottman Method provides precise, practical tools: ways to turn toward each other instead of away, to repair after conflict, to build deep friendship and trust, and to manage the perpetual disagreements that exist in every relationship.
At Bloom, the Gottman Method is used with couples at all stages — from those wanting to strengthen an already good relationship, to those navigating infidelity, communication breakdown, or the strains of major life transitions.
Gottman Method can help with
- ✓Communication difficulties and feeling unheard
- ✓Frequent conflict and inability to resolve disagreements
- ✓Emotional distance and disconnection
- ✓Rebuilding trust after infidelity or betrayal
- ✓Premarital preparation and strengthening commitment
- ✓Parenting stress affecting the relationship
- ✓Sexual and intimacy concerns
- ✓Life transitions (new baby, career changes, grief)
The Process
What Gottman couples therapy looks like
Assessment
Your therapist will spend the early sessions understanding your relationship — your history, your strengths, your patterns of conflict, and what you each want from therapy. This often includes individual sessions alongside joint sessions.
Building the Sound Relationship House
The Gottman Method uses the metaphor of a 'Sound Relationship House' — a framework with specific levels, from building friendship and managing conflict, to creating shared meaning. Your therapy will work through these levels at your pace.
Tools for real life
Gottman therapy is highly practical. You will leave sessions with concrete tools and exercises to use between appointments — ways to repair after arguments, to stay connected under stress, and to keep building toward the relationship you want.
Available locations
FAQ
Common questions about Gottman Method
Do both partners need to attend every session?
Most Gottman couples therapy involves both partners together, with some individual sessions early on to understand each person's perspective privately. Your therapist will discuss the format that works best for your situation.
Can the Gottman Method help if my partner doesn't want to come?
Individual therapy using Gottman-informed approaches can still be helpful — working on your own communication patterns, responses to conflict, and relationship goals. However, for couples work to be most effective, both partners benefit from being involved.
Is this approach suitable for LGBTQIA+ couples?
Absolutely. The Gottman Institute's research includes same-sex couples, and the method is designed to be relationship-structure inclusive. Bloom is an affirming practice welcoming all couples.
Ready to Begin?
Ready to invest in your relationship?
Book an appointment or reach out with any questions. We'll help you find the right therapist and the right approach.