The Developmental Model of Couples Therapy views relationship challenges not as signs of failure, but as a normal part of relationship development.  

 

The Developmental Model isn't just another approach to doing couples therapy; it's an integrative framework that brings together differentiation, attachment theory, and neuroscience. The Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused couples therapy, and other methods are all incorporated into this model. It focuses on personal growth, not pathology. 

Healthy relationships require both connection and differentiation—the ability to stay connected while still being your own person. With the right support, couples can use moments of disagreement to strengthen their relationship, deepen understanding, and build a more resilient partnership. With the right support, individuals can learn how to better notice and tolerate differences within important relationships while also being able to voice their own wishes. When strengthening these capacities in individual therapy, people usually find that their symptoms of anxiety and depression dissipate.