IVANA TUFEKCIC, LMFT

Hello and welcome! I help couples in distress move out of defeating cycles of interaction. My clients struggle like you do. Despite being smart, capable and emotionally intelligent, they find themselves trapped in communication patterns that leave them feeling unheard and frustrated. During disagreements one partner may attack, criticize or raise their voice. The other may withdraw, get quiet, or give the cold shoulder. One partner may attack and the other may withdraw. Often times, the more the couple tries to resolve an issue the further away they drift from each other. This pattern can feel extremely demoralizing. When they first come in, my clients feel stuck, discouraged and secretly wonder if the relationship can go on. They long for closeness, understanding and the ability to open up and connect with their partner. Your partner and you deserve and are fully capable of this kind of closeness. All the time. Want to make an appointment? We'd love to hear from you 916.606.7458 This practice is inclusive, affirming and welcoming to all. _____________________________________________________ Couples seek therapy for a variety of reasons: Improved Communication: Couples therapy helps couples learn effective communication skills, allowing them to express themselves more clearly and listen actively to their partner's thoughts and feelings. This can reduce misunderstandings and conflicts. Conflict Resolution: Therapists teach couples how to resolve conflicts in a healthy and productive manner. Couples learn problem-solving techniques that can be applied to various areas of their relationship. Enhanced Understanding: Therapy can foster a deeper understanding of each partner's perspective and emotions. It helps couples recognize and empathize with each other's experiences, leading to greater empathy and connection. Rekindled Intimacy: Many couples experience a revival of emotional and physical intimacy through therapy. Open communication and improved connection often lead to a more satisfying and fulfilling sex life. Strengthened Bond: Couples therapy can help partners rebuild and strengthen their emotional bond. It can be particularly beneficial during challenging life transitions or crises. Increased Relationship Satisfaction: Couples who engage in therapy often report higher levels of relationship satisfaction and overall well-being. They learn to appreciate each other's strengths and work together to overcome weaknesses. Conflict Prevention: Couples therapy not only addresses current issues but also equips couples with tools to prevent future conflicts. This proactive approach can lead to a more harmonious long-term relationship. Enhanced Coping Skills: Therapy can help individuals and couples develop better coping strategies for dealing with stress, external pressures, and major life changes. Support for Individual Growth: Couples therapy can address individual issues that may be affecting the relationship, such as unresolved trauma, anxiety, depression, or addiction. Resolving these issues can benefit both the individual and the partnership. Family Harmony: For couples with children, improved marital satisfaction often leads to a more stable and harmonious family environment, benefiting the children's emotional well-being. Healthy Separation or Divorce: In some cases, couples therapy can help couples navigate separation or divorce more amicably. It provides a safe space for discussing practical matters and addressing emotional pain. Increased Self-Awareness: Couples therapy can lead to greater self-awareness for both partners. Understanding one's own patterns, triggers, and needs can lead to personal growth and more fulfilling relationships. Effective Co-Parenting: For couples with children who choose to separate, therapy can help them develop effective co-parenting strategies, ensuring the well-being of their children. Long-Term Relationship Maintenance: Even couples in healthy relationships can benefit from occasional check-ins with a therapist to maintain and strengthen their bond. Pre-Marital Counseling: Couples therapy can also be valuable before marriage. It helps couples discuss important topics, set expectations, and establish a strong foundation for a healthy marriage. It's important to note that couples therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and its effectiveness can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the willingness of both partners to engage in the process. However, many couples find that it provides them with valuable tools and insights to navigate the complexities of their relationships more successfully.