Gottman Referral Network Therapist Directory Review

We recommend the Gottman Referral Network for couples seeking relationship therapy, such as pre-marital, couples, or discernment counseling. It is also a valuable directory for Gottman-trained therapists.

Navigating Relationships Challenges

Relationships can be challenging, leading to communication issues, differing ways of expressing love, disagreements in raising kids, and overall tension. Fortunately, couples therapy can help. Even for couples experiencing a "good" relationship, therapy can be a preventative measure against issues arising in the future. Studies show that 60-80% of couples benefit from therapy sessions.

Finding a Couples Therapist

Finding a qualified couples therapist can be challenging. The Gottman Referral Network aims to simplify this process. We surveyed 180 users, tested the service across 18 zip codes, and sought input from three licensed therapists to provide a comprehensive review.

What is the Gottman Referral Network?

The Gottman Referral Network, created by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, strives to establish and strengthen loving and healthy relationships through evidence-based techniques. Their mission garnered mixed reactions, with only 60% of surveyed users finding it very good or good.

The Gottman Method

Dr. John Gottman developed the Gottman Method, a therapeutic approach that assesses a couple's relationship and employs research-based techniques to enhance communication and conflict-resolution skills.

Gottman Referral Network Directory

The directory lists over 700 providers in 49 states and 40 countries. Clinicians can join after receiving specific levels of training in the Gottman Method. The directory's niche focus results in varying numbers of providers across states, with some areas having limited options.

First Impressions

The user-friendly homepage features a serene photo with clear text and showcases a maximum of three Gottman-trained therapists in your state. A search bar allows for easy therapist location by city, state, or name. While the color palette may seem unusual, the directory is well-organized and easy to navigate.

Despite its clear focus on couples therapy, individuals unfamiliar with the Gottman approach may find it confusing. Therapists' images are marked with level of training, but the directory lacks explanations, potentially deterring users unfamiliar with Dr. Gottman's work.

Searching for a Therapist

Finding a therapist in the directory is straightforward. It utilizes location services to display therapists in your state on the homepage. Users can also search by city, zip code, or therapist name. Checkboxes allow for easy filtering of search results based on therapist specialties and services.

Search Filter Limitations

Available search filters appear limited. Therapy seekers can adjust results based on the therapist's specialties and services, including online therapy, mediation, family therapy, or marathon couples therapy. Level of training in the Gottman Method can also be specified. However, the directory lacks specialized experience filters like eating disorders or LGBTQIA+ support.

Therapist Profiles

Each therapist profile includes an address, phone number, training level, excerpt from their bio, whether they offer online therapy, accepted insurance plans, payment options, qualifications, and languages spoken. However, therapist availability is displayed, but its accuracy may vary.

User Experience

Overall, therapy seekers are satisfied with the Gottman Referral Network. Nearly 79% rated the service as good or very good. However, users faced difficulties finding clinicians with specialized experience or those who shared their cultural or religious background.

While most users were able to find a therapist that met their needs, 46% found therapist availability displayed on the website to be inaccurate. Of those who contacted a therapist, 44% had a positive response with availability.

The Gottman Institute Resources

The Gottman Institute website provides a plethora of useful resources for couples, including a blog, podcast, webinars, and events. These resources are well-received, with 74% of surveyed users rating them as good or very good.

Therapist Perspective

The directory is most beneficial for couples therapists trained in the Gottman Method. Its targeted nature provides value despite being pricier than other directories. The directory offers an initial 30-day free trial for clinicians to assess its quality.

Final Verdict

The Gottman Referral Network is an excellent resource for finding a qualified couples therapist trained in the Gottman Method. However, its limited number of clinicians compared to other directories and lack of specialized experience filters may be a drawback for some users.