Professional Couples Therapy for Stronger Relationships

“ I can help you transform destructive relationship patterns into patterns that work for both of you, so you enjoy a more loving, satisfying relationship.”

If you are in a relationship

Would improving your communication skills enhance your relationship
Do you find yourself stuck in destructive relationship patterns?
Would you like to enjoy a more loving relationship?

I can help you

Improved communication enables you to resolve differences that arise before they turn into conflicts or fights. Transforming destructive relationship patterns establishes a calmer, more positive environment. Together they create a more loving, satisfying relationship for you both.

Using skills and expertise developed over 40 years of couples counseling, I effectively address a wide range of relationship issues. Couples therapy individualized to meet your unique needs can improve communication and transform destructive relationship patterns to bring about a more loving and satisfying relationship for both of you.

For over 40 years I have specialized in relationship therapy

During my graduate training in the 1970s, I focused on relationships: marital therapy, family therapy, sex therapy, and helping people through the difficult process of separation and divorce.

I have deepened my expertise in relationship therapy through certification in the Imago Therapy© work developed by Harville Hendrix, author of the book, Getting the Love You Want.

Communications Training

Helping couples improve their communication skills is basic to all couples therapy. Many people think that better communication means expressing yourself more clearly. The truth is that learning to listen and truly understand your partner is the key to better communication and a more loving relationship.

As you learn to listen better, you avoid the misunderstandings that cause most fights. You establish an atmosphere of safety and trust where you can:

Transform Destructive Relationship Patterns

When you’re stuck in destructive relationship patterns it can be hard to find your way out. Couples therapy offers the perspective of an objective third party with years of experience in relationship dynamics.

I can help you transform destructive relationship patterns into patterns that work for both of you, so you enjoy a more loving, satisfying relationship.

Couples get trapped in vicious circles. You do something that annoys your partner, leading to a negative response. This creates ill will, which can lead to further negativity. A vicious circle develops as hurts and resentments build. Neither of you feel like being nice to the other. Why should you, when they’re so angry/critical/mean all the time!?! A vicious circle makes it increasingly difficult for either of you to get what you want, need, and deserve from the relationship. Vicious circles lead to misery.

Through couples counseling you learn how to transform your vicious circles into virtuous circles. Most of us try to make those around us change to make us happy. Of course, the only person you can control is yourself. The key to transforming destructive relationship patterns is learning what you can do differently so that your partner will feel more inclined to please you.

Recognizing that negativity isn’t getting you anywhere, you begin to do small things that show you care. Your partner feels more loved and begins to want to please you as well. As each of you acts with greater kindness and consideration, goodwill increases. You both feel happier, safer, and more loving. Virtuous circles lead to peace, comfort, and satisfaction where love can grow.

Testimonials

“About a year ago my wife and I showed up at your door with our marriage hanging by the proverbial thread. That evening and for about the next three months you guided us away from the abyss with verbal exercises and remarkable understanding. A year later…things are very, very good. I just wanted to say Thank You.”

"You brought us together in a very gentle, non-threatening manner, allowing us to retain our individualism and recognize each others’ gifts to our marriage. We recognize who we are and that we truly do love each other; something we were unable to communicate before our sessions with you.”

"My husband and I went through Imago couples therapy with Dr. Samanen. I found her approach to be very holistic, based on self-discovery and mutual respect. The things we learned in the sessions continue to influence our marriage in a positive way.”

“We both wanted to let you know how grateful we feel to have found you. It is so exciting to see our relationship grow in such an amazing way. We are very excited that we found a therapist who works the way you do. Without your help we would be traveling down the same old road.”

"My husband and I scheduled counseling with Dr. Samanen because, after 23 years together, we were growing apart, almost living separate lives. Dr. Q helped us understand the importance of sharing and resolving issues rather than simply ignoring them to avoid potential conflict. She helped us realize we need to compromise and find things we can do together. Thanks to Dr. Q, my husband and I are sharing our thoughts and feelings without conflict or tension and, while still enjoying our separate activities and passions, have started communicating and sharing experiences and activities together as a couple. I can't thank Dr. Q enough for helping us put some spark back into our relationship and, very likely, saving our marriage."

"My wife and I saw Dr. Samanen when we were going through a rough spot in our marriage. She was wonderful in being clear and concise in our goals. She picked up very quickly on the underlying issues beyond the superficial ones. I appreciate that she used active listening and offered her own life experiences. She was always unbiased. We will always be in debt to her for her work. I highly recommend her."

Dr. Qatana Samanen

610-935-9335