I work with couples of all orientations- married, domestic partners, gay and lesbian couples, bi-racial couples, couples with significant age gaps, and partners in committed relationships of all kinds. It is my deep belief that within the very challenges you may find yourselves struggling, including painful grid-lock, that the intimacy and passion you are seeking actually lies. Many partners in relationship wonder if it is possible to continue being themselves while remaining close to their partners, as the pressures for unity and harmony compete with the need to be one's own separate self. It is totally possible, and even essential, that both partners strive to become more and more fully themselves, while simultaneously cultivating a satisfying relationship with closeness and trust.

Through our work together you can expect to:

• increase closeness and connection without losing yourselves.
• learn to communicate in ways where you both feel heard and understood, including where you disagree.
• understand and heal the emotional and behavioral patterns that hurt your relationship, and learn skills to shift them towards greater joy and love.
• revitalize your sexual connection.
• repair the wounds of affairs and other betrayals, and rebuild trust.
• continue growing both as individuals and a couple, even after therapy has ended.

I have also worked with couples dealing with prior sexual abuse in one or both partners, with infidelity and affairs, as well as premarital counseling.

For further questions or to make an appointment, you may contact me at kathryn@kathrynhirtmft.com or (510) 220-3558.