Couples Therapy
Brief Description
Support for couples to strengthen communication, rebuild connection, and navigate challenges, based on Emotion Focused Therapy and the Gottman Method.
Ongoing
We currently offer this service at Van Dijken Psychology.

Welcome!
Hi, this is Sanne! If this is your first time visiting my page, check out my home page to learn more about my approach and background.
About this service
Relationships can be one of the most meaningful, and most complex, parts of our lives. When couples face repeated conflict, distance, or misunderstandings, it can be hard to find a way forward on your own. Couples therapy offers a space to slow things down, understand what’s happening underneath the surface, and rebuild connection.
In my work with couples, I combine Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method, two well-researched approaches that complement each other. EFT helps us explore the emotional patterns that shape your relationship; how you reach for each other, protect yourselves, and respond to pain. The Gottman Method focuses on practical skills like communication, conflict management, and strengthening friendship and intimacy.
Together, we work to shift unhelpful patterns and build a foundation of trust, respect, and emotional safety.
Who can benefit
This service is for couples of all backgrounds who want to strengthen or repair their relationship. You might be feeling stuck in recurring arguments, struggling with emotional or physical closeness, recovering from a rupture such as infidelity, or simply looking to reconnect in a more meaningful way.
Whether you’ve been together for a few years or a few decades, couples therapy can help you understand each other better and move forward with more clarity and compassion.
How it works
We start with an intake process where I meet with both of you together and individually to understand your relationship history, strengths, concerns, and goals. From there, we create a shared focus for the sessions ahead.
Sessions take place in person and typically last 50–90 minutes, depending on what you prefer. Based on your needs, we may meet weekly or every two weeks. The structure may include exploring past patterns, practicing communication skills, learning to de-escalate conflict, and working through difficult emotions in a safe and guided way.
Throughout, I aim to create a space where both partners feel heard, respected, and supported, even when the topics are challenging.
What to expect
Couples often begin therapy feeling frustrated, disconnected, or hopeless, and while change doesn’t happen overnight, many start to notice subtle shifts early on. These might include more open conversations, fewer blow-ups, or feeling more seen and supported by your partner.
As we continue, the focus moves toward strengthening your bond and building a relationship where you can safely express needs, set boundaries, and enjoy each other again. Therapy can be a turning point, whether that means healing together or, in some cases, separating with more understanding and care.




