“Couples don’t have 300 different fights,
they have 1 fight 300 different ways”
— Terry Hargrave
Couples Counseling
The goal of couples therapy at Lam Counseling Services is to uncover the core pattern of conflict that is plaguing every aspect of your relationship (money, kids, sex, etc.) The topics of the fights might be different, but they still trigger the same powerful feelings. It’s like an old, hurtful dance that you don’t know how to get out.
These patterns often originate from outdated ways of self-protection that emerged long before your current relationship. Unfortunately, these protective mechanisms, once useful in the past, are now sabotaging your present relationship.
How We Work
While we utilize many techniques and schools of therapy in our work, there are three foundational pieces that characterize our approach:
We do not take sides with either partner in the conflict; instead, we advocate for the well-being of the relationship itself. As long as both parties continue to fight for and make sacrifices for their relationship, we will be with them every step of the way.
Our role is not to be a referee in a boxing match, but rather a coach in a football game, with you and your spouse playing on the same team against the problem threatening your union.
We facilitate a process that encourages each partner to own their part to the issue at hand, while fostering emotional connection and intimacy within the relationship.
Intake & Fees
The intake process involves three sessions for a total of $850. Afterward, we will meet regularly for 50-minute sessions. Below is the breakdown of the intake process:
First intake (75 minutes - $250): joint couple session. We discuss what brings you to therapy, relationship strengths, your goals and relationship history
Second intake (100 minutes/50 minutes each - $350): individual session with each partner. We discuss your story separate from your relationship. We explore your family of origin, attachment styles, and any past trauma.
Third intake (75 minutes - $250): joint couple session. From the information gathered in the first two intakes, the therapist will present his feedback and discuss treatment plan with you.
$200 - 50 minute session
10 sessions prepaid package: $1600 ($160/session).
5 sessions prepaid package: $875 ($175/session).
Prepaid packages do not include intake.
Why Such Intensive Intake?
The three-session intake is designed to get the therapist up to speed with your unique relationship dynamics. Couples often carry complex individual and shared histories that, if unexamined, can hinder progress and prolong the therapeutic process (costing you more money for less effective work). By engaging in these initial sessions, the therapist can optimize their approach, ensuring effective interventions and guiding you toward the relationship goals you aspire to achieve.
Out-of-Network Care
We have partnered with Mentaya to help clients use their out-of-network benefits to save money on therapy. Use this tool to see if you qualify for reimbursement for my services. Then learn more about how it works here.