We grow in and through relationships. It is very "normal" that problems and conflicts will arise at some point.

There is a strong connection between the quality of the relationship and physical and mental health. Strained relationships and recent breakups have been shown to lead to health and psychological impairments, regardless of pre-existing disorders. They also influence the development of cardiovascular disease and cancer.

I support heterosexual, lesbian, gay, bisexual and other queer couples, both couples in monogamous and open or polyamorous constellations.

Systemic couple therapy is particularly well suited to using problems as starting points for growth - individually and as partners. Themes can include:

• Communication problems and entrenched conflict patterns
• External relations or loss of trust
• Power structures in the relationship
• Blame and withdrawal
• Proximity and distance, intimacy and sexuality
• Learned behavioral patterns that are destructive in the relationship
• Different views on child rearing
• Changed life situations and crises, professional stress, illnesses
• Crises after the birth of a child

The starting point is a first conversation, in which we clarify your goals and expectations. It is not uncommon that the goals and expectations of partners differ initially.
 

Afterwards, we work on concrete interaction patterns e.g. using circular questioning, sculptures and constellations, and other creative techniques. The focus is on finding new perspectives and options for action. Through targeted questions and exercises, couples often recognize how entrenched certain patterns are – and how they can break free from them.

We focus on feelings and core human needs such as: safety, trust and intimacy. In this way, you can leave behind destructive behavioural patterns which you might have acquired a long time ago and which subconsciously drive your decisions.
 

Couples therapy is generally a short-term intervention; the number of sessions is for the couple to decide. Some use only two sessions and experience a significant improvement in their relationship, but therapy often lasts more than five and sometimes up to 20 sessions.