Relationships shouldn't be this frustrating.
We all know good relationships take work.
But if you are:
having the same arguments over and over,
walking on eggshells,
feeling alone despite the person lying right beside you,
questioning whether you would be better off on your own
That's not the understandable work of a modern relationship.
It's a sign that something needs to change.
Questioning your relationship is one of the worst feelings in the world. And while no partnership is without challenges, you shouldn't experience life with your partner as unrelenting work.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist and Los Angeles couples therapist.
I work with couples who are seeking more collaboration and connection.
I use an evidence-based treatment called Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy to help you understand your relationship - and yourself - better and make positive changes in how you interact. My approach is warm, collaborative, and active.
Sarah M. Thompson, PhD
What Is Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy?
IBCT is an evidence-based treatment designed to help couples improve their relationship.
Therapy begins by developing a shared understanding of the challenges and strengths in your relationship, including how each partner's unique history and personality affect your interactions. By identifying patterns of behavior that are not working, we can interrupt unhelpful habits and foster your ability to engage more effectively with one another.
IBCT explicitly identifies the relationship as the client, meaning that therapy is never about 'picking a side' - it's about improving the overall quality of your relationship.
1 / When is good time to consider couple therapy?
Couples often seek therapy because something in their relationship is no longer working. It can also be a preventative exercise to reduce the likelihood of future problems. In our consultation call, we'll discuss what you're looking for and whether IBCT would be a good fit. I've worked with couples who have been married for decades and those who are relatively early in their relationship.
2 / We've had a negative experience with couple therapy in the past. Will this treatment be helpful?
I've heard way too many horror stories about past experiences in couple therapy. Many relate to boundary violations, overt favoritism, judgmental comments, or passive nodding from the therapist. My goal is to offer compassionate, active, evidence-based treatment focused on addressing your individual needs and improving the relationship as a whole. If you have concerns based on past experiences, please bring them up during our consultation call so that I can address them directly.
3 / Do you play favorites?
No. Challenges in a relationship are almost always due to the interaction between both partners. One person is rarely 'the bad guy.' My goal is to help you identify the ways in which each partner's history, values, and sensitivities are influencing the communication and behavioral patterns unfolding between you and to help both of you make positive changes toward a more fulfilling connection.
4 / Are you comfortable working with LGBTQIA+ couples?
Absolutely!
What Are the Next Steps?
1
Schedule a Phone Call
Visit my Contact page to schedule a free 30-minute couple consultation. I'll work with you to find a time for all three of us to speak together.
2
Tell Me More
During our call, I'll ask both partners to share their perspectives on concerns within the relationship. You'll learn more about the structure and process of IBCT and get your questions answered.
3
Find Your Fit
It's important to find a therapist who feels like a good fit for both partners. Take some time after our call to decide if you'd like to work with me. When you're ready to get started, I'll send you the initial paperwork and schedule our first session.