Our counselor, Karen Plant, is a Gottman Level 3 counselor. She
has undergone advanced training in the Gottman Method, a research-based approach to couples therapy developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman. The training consists of several stages, each building on the previous level:
1. Level 1: Bridging the Couple Chasm
Focus: Introduction to the Gottman Method, including the Sound Relationship House theory and core assessment techniques.
Skills Learned: How to conduct assessments, identify key relationship dynamics, and apply basic intervention strategies.
2. Level 2: Assessment, Intervention, and Co-Morbidities
Focus: More in-depth understanding of the Gottman Method, including detailed assessment techniques, complex case planning, and interventions.
Skills Learned: Advanced assessment techniques, how to handle co-morbidities like depression or anxiety in couples therapy, and using interventions tailored to specific couples' needs.
3. Level 3: Practicum Training
Focus: Intensive, hands-on practice with real couples under supervision.
Skills Learned: Applying the Gottman Method in practice, refining intervention strategies, receiving direct feedback from trainers, and learning to manage challenging cases.
Additional Requirements:
Supervision: After completing Level 3, counselors often receive ongoing supervision or consultation with certified Gottman trainers to refine their skills.
Certification: Some counselors may choose to pursue certification, which requires additional case studies, video submissions, and review by the Gottman Institute.
Level 3 training ensures that a counselor is highly skilled in applying the Gottman Method to help couples improve their relationships.
A Level 3 Gottman Couples Counselor has undergone extensive training in the Gottman Method, a research-based approach to relationship therapy developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman. Here’s a general overview of the training they receive:
1. Level 1 Training: Gottman Method Couples Therapy
Foundational Knowledge: This level introduces the basic concepts of the Gottman Method, including the Sound Relationship House Theory, the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, and the Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work.
Skills Development: Counselors learn essential intervention techniques, such as how to conduct a relationship assessment and use basic therapeutic interventions.
Practical Application: They begin applying these concepts with couples in their practice.
2. Level 2 Training: Assessment, Intervention, and Co-Morbidities
Deepening Knowledge: At this level, counselors gain a deeper understanding of the Gottman Method’s assessment process, including the use of specific tools like the Gottman Relationship Checkup.
Advanced Interventions: They learn more advanced intervention techniques tailored to complex issues couples may face, including comorbidities such as anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Case Studies and Role Play: The training includes reviewing case studies, engaging in role plays, and receiving feedback to refine their skills.
3. Level 3 Training: Practicum in Gottman Method Couples Therapy
Advanced Practicum: This level focuses on refining the counselor’s skills through intensive practice and consultation. Participants present their own cases to senior Gottman Method trainers and receive detailed feedback.
Mastering Techniques: Counselors work on mastering the application of Gottman interventions, ensuring they can effectively tailor their approach to the unique needs of each couple.
Consultation and Certification Preparation: They receive ongoing consultation and supervision, which helps prepare them for certification as a Gottman Therapist if they choose to pursue it.
4. Ongoing Professional Development
Supervision and Consultation: Counselors often continue to receive supervision and consultation to stay current with the latest research and interventions in the Gottman Method.
Continuing Education: Many counselors engage in continuing education to deepen their knowledge of related areas, such as trauma-informed care, diversity, and cultural competency. In addition to being a member of the Gottman Institute, Karen Plant has received additional training in processing Affairs and Betrayal.
Achieving Level 3 status indicates that a counselor has a deep understanding of the Gottman Method and is proficient in applying its techniques to help couples build stronger, more resilient relationships. See more about Karen at our website: www.wellnesscounseling.life
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