Couples Therapy

Why Couples and Relationship Therapy

I feel there is a misconception that couples counseling is to "fix" a couple and create the "ideal" relationship. My foundation when working with a couple is the belief that there is no "right"' way to be together. It is important to me to support individuals in a romantic relationship to find their boundaries, express their needs, and to highlight interactions and how they effect each partner. I have experience working with couple's that want to feel excited to be together again, that want to shift their shared tasks in the household or in parenting, who are looking for support in determining the boundaries as they open their relationship, and some couple's that would like to break up amicably. My goal is to ensure that each person feels heard and supported.

My Approach

My style of therapy is very directive in sessions. I often pause someone to emphasize something important they are saying or slow the speaker down so we can unpack statements together. My goal is to blend processing and action steps. It is important to me that couple's feel their dynamics change as we work together. 

Getting Started

I offer a free consultation session with couples to get to know one another and to ensure that my skills match what you need. The duration and extent of our work together can absolutely be determined as we go. I make sure to check in with couples periodically to ensure that our goals are still aligned, that the couple feels we are moving in a direction that benefits them, and that our time together is still helpful.

Julie offers day time and evening sessions to fit scheduling needs. For scheduling and availability, please email mcgowan.rapportcounseling@gmail.com or fill out the New Inquiry Form found on the Contact page.

The price per couples session is $175. Reduced Priced slots are available as needed.

FAQs

• Q: Who counts as a "couple?"   A: I am happy to work with relationships of all shapes and sizes! Anyone who is in a romantic partnership that is looking for support is welcome to schedule a free assessment session to see if my skills match your needs. 

• Q: Can I contact you in between sessions?   A: Absolutely! I happy to offer free email consultation throughout the week. I do have a "no secrets" policy, however, so please know that while I am happy to provide a sounding board for individuals, my goal will be to support you in bringing any themes or patterns up with your partner during our next session. 

• Q: What is the frequency of couple's counseling?   A: The standard option is to meet weekly. However, sometimes due to finances, scheduling needs, or the intensity of a situation may mean we need to find a balance that makes the most sense. I am happy to meet with couple's every other week or on a monthly basis if needed. 

• Q: What is your cancellation policy?    A: I have a 24 hour cancellation policy. If you contact me more than 24 hours before your scheduled session, we can try to find a time that same week to reschedule or cancel with no fee. If you contact me less than 24 hours before your scheduled session, then the whole fee will be charged unless we are able to find a time to reschedule in the same business week that works for both of our schedules. 

• Q: How can I schedule an appointment?   A: Great question! To schedule an appointment or learn more, please email Julie at mcgowan.rapportcounseling@gmail.com or fill out the New Inquiry Form found on the Contact page.