How are couples intensives different from regular couples therapy?

Couples intensives are an accelerated form of couples therapy designed for maximum impact.  Instead of waiting a week or two for the next session and losing momentum, couples intensives allow you to have back to back sessions in one weekend.  The pace is quicker and the format is more structured for optimum results.  

What's different about your couples intensives?

Our model is built around teamwork. Each couple works with two seasoned couples therapists throughout the entire weekend — a structure that allows for deeper insight and more balanced support. Relationships are complex, and having two experts collaborating on your behalf creates a richer, more dynamic experience. We are not just therapists who see couples. We are couples therapists who have decades of training and experience working on relationships. We designed our weekend intensive program ourselves and we’re passionate about our work.

With two therapists, we’re able to integrate both individual and joint sessions within the same weekend without someone waiting for their turn — something most intensives can’t offer — making every minute purposeful and productive. Both of us bring distinct areas of expertise and methods, creating a well-rounded, comprehensive approach tailored to your relationship. Because four people are fully engaged in the process, there’s a natural sense of teamwork and momentum. The room feels energized and collaborative — a shared effort focused entirely on helping your relationship move forward.

You’ll also receive a personalized workbook crafted during your intensive, filled with the tools and exercises you’ve used together. It becomes your roadmap for continuing growth long after the weekend ends.

What type of couple is the best fit for your intensives?

Couples who are ready to do the work and desire a straightforward and efficient approach tend to do best in our intensives.  We are serious about the work we do, we don't waste time, and we are committed to helping couples get back on track quickly. 

Will there be other couples participating or just us? 

Just you. It's important to note that this is not a class or a workshop. This is confidential couples therapy done in an accelerated format.

What models of couples therapy do you use?

We don’t rely on just one model — each has its strengths, but also its limits. By drawing from four proven approaches, we’re able to design a process that’s fully customized to your relationship and what you most need from the weekend. We use a combination of The Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Imago, and Relational Life Therapy (RLT).  In addition, we may incorporate some other models, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Trauma Informed Therapy, based on your needs. Both of us have extensive, advanced training in these models and have been integrating them into our work with couples for many years.

Do you do anything before we arrive to get to know our issues?

Yes we do.  We have designed an extensive assessment phase that takes place before your weekend even starts.  Once a weekend is booked, you'll receive multiple assessments and questionnaires to complete confidentially, online.  We review these assessments in depth to begin prepping for your weekend.  We are also willing to collaborate with any current providers (individual therapists, couples therapists, psychiatrists, etc) prior to your weekend if you would like us to do that. Our intention is to hit the ground running when you arrive.  We are committed to giving you the absolute best experience we can, and that starts with a good assessment.

Where do your weekend intensives take place?

Our intensives take place in our office, located in Vienna, Virginia (about 15 miles outside of Washington, DC). We carefully designed our intensives room to feel warm, inviting, and comfortable.

How do we sign up?

The first step is a video consultation to determine if this is a good fit.  We want you to feel confident in your decision to work with us.  So the four of us will meet via Zoom to go over the agenda and answer any questions you might have.  If you decide to move forward, we require a signed booking agreement and a 50% deposit to hold your weekend. To schedule a video consultation, please fill out the contact form on the website, send us an email, or call/text us.