WELLSPRING COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY
Gottman Method couples therapy
Explore patterns of conflict, friendship and connection with a counsellor who draws on the Gottman Method. Meet Joel Meszaros and Xiaoxiao (Emily) Dan.
A practical framework for relationship work
The Gottman Method focuses on understanding a couple’s relationship and working on friendship, conflict management and shared meaning. The therapist and couple discuss their goals and how to approach the work. Depending on the clinician, sessions may include assessment, conversation, reflection and practical exercises.
You might want to understand a recurring disagreement, improve how you repair after conflict, or make more room for connection. The consultation is a chance to ask how your counsellor would work with your situation.
Meet the counsellors
Joel Meszaros
Warm, welcoming and easy to talk with. Joel’s relational work includes Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Method training.
Read Joel Meszaros’s profile and booking options
Xiaoxiao (Emily) Dan
Collaborative, trauma-informed counselling in English and Mandarin, with published experience in relationships, cultural adjustment and life transitions.
Read Xiaoxiao (Emily) Dan’s profile and booking optionsJoel’s published training includes Gottman Method Couples Therapy. Emily’s team profile lists Gottman work, and her booking profile describes Level 2 training. Training in the method is different from holding the Certified Gottman Therapist credential; this page does not claim that certification.
Choosing an approach together
A counsellor may integrate Gottman ideas with other relational and trauma-informed approaches. Ask about their training, assessment process and how they adapt sessions to your goals. You can also compare Emotionally Focused couples therapy through the approaches menu.
Both partners’ willingness, needs and safety matter when choosing a format. Raise any concern about attending together privately with the counsellor before booking a joint session.
Questions before you book
Do I need to be married?
You can ask about couples counselling at different stages of a relationship. Discuss your circumstances and what you hope to work on with the counsellor.
Is every Wellspring couples counsellor Gottman-trained?
No. The team uses a range of approaches. This page identifies clinicians whose published information includes Gottman training or practice; compare their profiles before choosing.
Approach background: The Gottman Institute.
Choose the right person and location
Wellspring’s only current in-person office is in Vancouver, by appointment and through select counsellors. Online options depend on where you will physically attend sessions and the clinician. Use our Canada province guide to find the right route.
A free 15-minute consultation is a short introduction to discuss fit. Regular therapy appointments are separate, paid sessions. Check fees and policies and confirm coverage for the individual clinician’s designation with your insurer.
About Wellspring
Founded in 2016 by Alistair Gordon, MA, RCC, UBC Adjunct Professor, published author and developer of CorMorphosis™ Psychotherapy, Wellspring brings together clinicians with different approaches and areas of practice. Explore our free articles and YouTube resources.