Miranda Bayard-Clark

I am level 2 trained in Gottman Couples Therapy method and use this method as my primary couples therapy technique. Through the process of assessment, couples will have a clear treatment plan of their work early in the process to help guide the therapy. Couples will be able to know what is going well, what needs initial work, and long term goals for the relationship. By use of specific exercises, couples will establish a deeper level of intimacy as well as learn new patterns of communication which will facilitate efficient conflict resolution.

Marriage and commitment is an investment. So why not start your commitment off from a strong point and do some pre-commitment work? Premarital therapy is my jam, and I love when couples come in to have a few sessions prior to taking the plunge. Society often views the wedding as the end goal, however it is just the beginning of a life-long love with ups and downs. In premarital counseling, I help identify current negative interaction patterns which may be getting in the way of communication, as well as identify possible triggers which will pop up here and there throughout the relationship. By establishing a deeper understanding of one another, couples can help support one another during tough times, as well as create a foundation for conflict resolution.

Emotion Focused therapy works well for couples as well as individuals. Often times, we may not be aware of the feelings/emotions that we are experiencing. Emotions are taught by our primary caregivers and often coincide with our attachment styles. By identifying the vulnerable emotions which are often masked by secondary emotions (anger), the client is able to heal past wounds, as well as create more fulling and meaningful relationships with those around them.

We've all heard the metaphor of a frog in water. You put one in cold water and raise the temperature by one degree slowly over time. Eventually, that frog will die due to the water being too hot. Another frog is thrown in hot water, and immediately jumps out, saving it's own life. This metaphor is true for relationships. We often don't notice or disregard relationship hurts until we've waiting too late. Unfortunately, I see many couples who have reached the end of their rope and are not willing to put in the effort or stay committed during the couples therapy process. Even the happiest of marriages and relationships have their struggles and it is okay to seek support!

I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as Exposure and Response Prevention for treatment in OCD.

Many individuals I have worked with are struggling through a life transition of some sort. I find that it is helpful to sit with others during tough times, rather than taking that burden on yourself. Many clients I see are going through transitions of aging, death, job relocation, relationship transitions and many others.