Gottman Couples Theory

Singapore University of Social Sciences

Gottman Couples Theory (COU574)

Synopsis

In this introductory module, the students will learn what couple research knows about relationships based on the clinical work done by John Gottman and colleagues over the past 30 years. The trainee therapists will learn some techniques of applying these research findings in assessment and intervention for couples. The module will focus on the following themes: Sound Relationship House Theory, some assessment tools to determine the dynamics of couple’s relationship, intervention to address problematic couple’s interactions based on research-based couple therapy.

Level: 5
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: Every January

Topics

Introduction to Gottman Couples Therapy
Research and Theory
Myths about Dysfunctional and Failing Relationships
Dysfunctional Elements in Failing Couple Relationships
Functional Elements in Couple Relationships
Summary Checklist for Dysfunctional and Healthy Relationships
Sound Relationship House
Four Horsemen of Apocalypse
Assessment Session 1: How Therapy Works, Assessing Couple Together and their Relationship
Assessment Session 2: Individual Sessions
Assessment Session 3: Therapeutic Contract - One Conjoint Session
Intervention 1: Philosophy of Therapy
Intervention 2: Conflict Management
Intervention 3: Building Friendship and Shared Meaning

Learning Outcome

Formulate the philosophical and theoretical framework underlying Gottman Couples Therapy (GCT)
Appraise the key concepts in the Sound Relationship House, assessment and interventions for couples in therapy
Organise the GCT theoretical concepts, assessment and interventions into a coherent approach for a given case in couple therapy
Demonstrate the GCT clinical skills needed to address the presenting issues, and work with the couples to improve their relationship
Design strategies to conduct psycho-education for couples based on GCT philosophical and theoretical framework
Apply the GCT technique(s) and skills appropriately in a given couple therapy session