Couples Psychotherapy

Our couples therapist has advanced certification in Marriage and Family Therapy.

Introduction

The couples therapist on our team obtained an advanced certification in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Guelph

She draws from a variety of modalities to support couples in their goals for therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Family System Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solutions Focused Therapy (SFT), as well as Attachment and Mindfulness Theories.

Comprehensive Overview of Couples Psychotherapy

As a couples counselor and mental health professional, the main objective of the initial session is to create a safe space to discuss issues in your relationship with a third-party present to moderate the discussion. My personal goal as a therapist is to teach couples how to best communicate in their everyday lives by first practicing techniques in session and bringing them home to implement. There are many reasons couples want to engage in therapy, whether it be a proactive approach such as learning a new skill, or pre marital counseling. Or a reactive approach such as healing from a trauma within the relationship (e.g., infidelity). No matter what the motivating factor in seeking help, couples therapy has been proven to be beneficial to a variety of issues partners present.

Once therapy begins, sessions follow a structured yet client-centered format. Clients are encouraged to discuss their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe and nonjudgmental environment. The therapist may use various techniques and interventions to help clients gain insight into their challenges, develop coping strategies, and work towards their goals.  

Therapy sessions may include:

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

Focuses on improving emotional bonds and attachment. Helps couples understand and change patterns that lead to emotional disconnection.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. Teaches problem-solving and communication skills.

Imago Relationship Therapy

Focuses on understanding childhood experiences and their impact on current relationships. Encourages healing and growth within the relationship.

Narrative Therapy

Encourages partners to rewrite their relationship stories in a more positive light. Helps couples see their relationship from different perspectives.

Couples psychotherapy can be beneficial at any stage of a relationship, whether couples are dating, engaged, married, or facing separation or divorce. It provides a supportive space to work through challenges and build a healthier, more fulfilling relationship.

Key Benefits of Couples Psychotherapy

Communication Improvement: Enhances communication skills between partners. Teaches active listening, empathy, and expression of feelings.
Conflict Resolution: Identifies sources of conflict and strategies to resolve them. Encourages constructive handling of disagreements.
Emotional Support: Helps partners understand and support each other's emotional needs. Builds emotional intimacy and trust.
Behavioral Change: Identifies and modifies negative behavior patterns. Encourages positive behavior reinforcement.

Problem-Solving Skills: Develops effective problem-solving strategies. Encourages collaborative decision-making.
Rebuilding Trust: Addresses issues of trust and fidelity. Provides tools for rebuilding and maintaining trust.
Life Transitions: Addresses issues related to sexual intimacy and satisfaction. Encourages open discussion about sexual needs and preferences.
Sexual Intimacy: Helps couples navigate life transitions such as marriage, parenthood, retirement, etc.

Meet Our Team

JEYARAJAN

Practice Owner

My clients describe me as warm and easy to open up to. It is important to me that the treatment plan fits my clients’ goals and that this is a collaborative approach.

Together we will work to achieve the changes you want for yourself, identify the root of the problems or symptoms you are facing, and you’ll learn more about yourself through the process.

Our work can lead to a deeper understanding of yourself: Your inner fears, wounds, outdated and/or inaccurate negative core beliefs about yourself, needs and wants that are repressed, etc. Unlocking these inner and often unconscious struggles will lead to powerful healing experiences, self-compassion and a deep sense of self-worth. For me it’s a privilege to be a part of your healing journey.

Stephanie Schiraldi

Registered Psychotherapist

As a Registered Psychotherapist, I am dedicated to providing a warm and non-judgmental space for my clients. My goal is to make therapy feel comfortable and approachable.

Together, we’ll work at your own pace to uncover the root of your problems and achieve the changes you want. You’ll learn more about yourself and develop strategies to overcome challenges.

Tara Rizvi-Syed

Registered Social Worker/Psychotherapist

My approach is client centered with emphasis on cultural mindfulness. I facilitate clients to develop self-awareness about unhealthy patterns of communication and interpersonal relationships that may create barriers in living their life fully.

Finding a balance between attending to the current episode that led them to seek therapy but also explore root/ past causes of their current struggles.

Sheida Bamdad

MSW, RSW (Registered Social Worker)

I believe in a warm, non-judgmental, and client-centered approach to therapy. My practice is trauma-focused and collaborative, aiming to create a safe space where you can explore your concerns openly and without fear of judgment. My approach focuses on fostering hope, well-being, and positive connections not only within my clients themselves but also with the significant people in their lives.

Together, we’ll embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

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