What is the primary focus of Gottman's Method Couples Therapy?

The primary focus of Gottman's Method Couples Therapy is on building and enhancing friendship, intimacy, and emotional connection within relationships. This approach emphasizes the importance of a solid foundation of friendship as essential for healthy couple dynamics. By fostering a deeper emotional connection, partners can better understand each other's needs and enhance their overall relationship satisfaction.

Gottman's research highlights that positive interactions and a strong emotional bond enable couples to navigate conflicts more effectively. While communication skills and conflict resolution are important aspects of the therapy, they serve as tools to strengthen the foundational friendship and emotional intimacy rather than standing alone as primary objectives. Thus, building that connection is central to the effectiveness of this therapeutic approach.