The word “pattern” is important in my office. I don’t focus on what you or your partner is doing “wrong,” but instead identify problematic patterns that are unique to your relationship.

My approach to couple therapy comes from the cognitive-behavioral tradition, especially the empirically supported approaches like Integrative Couple Behavior Therapy (ICBT) and acceptance based approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). That means that I can help you and your partner identify habits and patterns that have the potential to cause problems or have already done so, and we will devise ways to replace those patterns with more useful ones.

What to Expect

I will want to meet with you as a couple on our first meeting, then I’ll ask each of you to come in individually for one meeting. (Of course, our first meeting is a free consultation to determine whether we are a good fit.) During these first three meetings, I will be gathering a lot of information about your relationship, and the history that each of you brings to it. Most couples find these initial sessions to be quite useful.

Next, we will begin meeting again as a couple and work on the patterns we’ve identified. We can work for as many or as few weeks as you like, and I will give you my thoughts on the best way to proceed.

Whether you are addressing old problems or are setting the foundation for a new relationship, couple counseling is an investment that can provide insight and techniques that may otherwise take years to establish. Please contact me today to set up a meeting. If I am not the right professional for you, I will try to find someone who is.

Shawn T. Smith, Psy.D.
4045 Wadsworth, Suite 200
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033

(303) 818-5162
shawn@mesapsych.com