build relationship skills

Therapy for High-Conflict Couples in NYC

Learn about your patterns, how they shape your connections and how therapy might improve your relationships.

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What is a high-conflict couple?

High-Conflict Couples: couples that find themselves repeatedly stuck in escalated disagreements that leave them feeling flooded, withdrawn, disconnected and doubtful about the sustainability of their partnership. These couples are drained and may be seriously considering separation or divorce. They feel overwhelmed and - despite knowing that something needs to change - they have no clue where to start.

People come to us with the following questions:

  • Why do I feel so misunderstood, unheard, or disconnected in my relationship?

  • Are our differences surmountable or are they indications of a fundamental incompatibility?

  • Can I meet my partner’s needs without mine being ignored?

  • Why does my partner struggle to show up for me?

  • Should we keep trying to make this work?

  • Will we always argue like this?

  • Do all couples argue this much and this intensely?

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After Relationship-Oriented Therapy

Many patients complete therapy in 15 - 20 sessions
& report:

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  • Practical tools and skills to more confidently navigate conflict in your relationship

  • Confidence in communicating your needs to your partner

  • Greater ability to hold space for your partner without becoming activated, flooded, defensive or shutting down

  • Enhanced moments of deep connection and attunement in your relationship

  • A strong foundation for a healthy marriage or long-term partnership

  • Clarity around how to move forward from an impasse

  • Effective co-parenting while maintaining respect and cooperation

  • A fulfilling sex life

  • Greater feeling of being seen and understood by your partner

  • A sense of hopefulness towards the future

What can you expect from relationship therapy?

It’s normal to be unsure about whether therapy is right for you. Below are some commonly asked questions about relationship-oriented treatment that might help you in making your decision.

    • Struggles with people-pleasing and difficulty setting boundaries in your relationship

    • History of infidelity or other forms of betrayal of trust

    • Fear of conflict or rejection 

    • Patterns of codependency or feeling overly responsible for your partner

    • Trouble trusting due to past relational wounds or betrayals outside of the relationship

    • Anxiety or overthinking your partner’s behavior

    • Difficulty expressing needs, emotions, or expectations

    • Navigating major relationship transitions, including engagement and marriage

    • Exploring non-monogamy and polyamory with clear communication and healthy boundaries

    • Differences in attachment styles/love language and or sexual needs

    • Co-parenting dynamics, whether with a current or former partner, to create a supportive environment for children

  • Therapy is a collaborative and supportive space where we uncover the patterns that may be keeping you stuck. Through our work together, you will:

    • Explore past experiences and understand how they shape your current relationship dynamics

    • Learn to recognize and shift unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors

    • Practice boundary-setting and assertive communication in a way that feels natural

    • Strengthen your ability to self-soothe and manage emotional triggers

    • Build deeper self-awareness, self-compassion, and relational confidence

    • Gain skills to navigate marriage preparation, ethical non-monogamy, or co-parenting challenges with intention and clarity’

    • Develop a deeper understanding of core relationships and how to manage them

    Read more here about the treatment process.

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Chat With a Relationship Therapist

Experience personalized therapy at our office in Nomad

All in-person sessions will take place in a warm, inviting space that will help you feel calm and centered for the work.

The office is located in Nomad and easily accessible via the 1, 2, 3, N, R, W, B, D, F, M and 6 lines.

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Ready to start your journey toward a better bond?

Book a free consultation

Check out our latest posts

Meet our therapists, learn about their specialties and reach out to set up your consultation today.
We are thrilled to welcome our newest team member, Dr. Stephanie Chin! Dr. Chin brings a wealth of experience, particularly as it relates to the impact of race, culture, family and upbringing on identity formation and romantic partnerships. She works
We believe safety, belonging and agency are foundational to healthy. And we believe it is our responsibility as clinicians and as a practice to remain aware of and engaged with the broader forces affecting our clients’ lives. This means continu