Business Details
41 Years
experience
Couples Therapy in San Diego
At Gerard Counseling, we specialize in guiding couples and individuals through life's most challenging emotional and relational transitions. With over 35 years of professional experience and personal insight gained through my own 30+ year marriage and raising five children, I bring a unique perspective to therapy. Our practice utilizes evidence-based methodologies including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Method techniques, and EMDR trauma training to address communication breakdowns, rebuild trust, and navigate life transitions. We focus on strengthening relationships through a strength-based approach that identifies and builds upon existing foundations for growth.Our clients benefit from personalized therapeutic journeys that address both immediate concerns and long-term relational health. The practice combines clinical expertise with real-world understanding of challenges faced by couples in their 40s, 50s, and 60s, including empty nesting and role redefinition. We maintain affiliations with professional organizations including SDNC CAMFT and have completed advanced training in trauma treatment and premarital counseling. Our downtown San Diego location offers convenient access with free parking, creating a welcoming environment for transformative therapy sessions.
Services
Couples Therapy
Premarital Counseling
Individual Therapy
Trauma Treatment
Relationship Coaching
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- We offer 35+ years of specialized couples therapy experience
- Our practice combines EMDR trauma training with relationship-focused approaches
- We specialize in helping couples during midlife transitions
- We utilize evidence-based Gottman Method conflict resolution techniques
- Our therapist holds advanced certifications in trauma and relationship therapy
Associations and certifications
- EMDR International Association
- International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy
- Gottman Institute
What people say
Real message behind anger
Heard and understood
Transformative experience
Effective communication tools
Deep emotional connection
Services
Couples Therapy
Specialized therapy for couples seeking to restore trust and improve communication. Utilizing evidence-based approaches like Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Method techniques, we help partners navigate life transitions and resolve conflicts constructively. Our practice addresses challenges faced by couples in midlife and beyond.
Premarital Counseling
Five-session program combining online assessment with personalized counseling. Focuses on building communication skills, understanding love languages, and establishing relationship foundations. Addresses potential challenges through research-based approaches to ensure long-term marital success.
Individual Therapy
Support for individuals facing relationship challenges, anxiety, or trauma. Emphasizes boundary setting, emotional understanding, and personal growth. Specialized in treating trauma, abuse, and grief through EMDR and mind-body approaches.
People
Carolyn Gerard
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
Licensed since 1985 with advanced training in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Gottman Method. Specializes in couples therapy for midlife transitions and trauma treatment. Combines professional expertise with personal experience from 30+ years of marriage.
Questions
What types of therapy do you offer?
We specialize in couples therapy, premarital counseling, and individual therapy using evidence-based approaches like EMDR and Gottman Method techniques.
How long are therapy sessions?
Standard sessions last 50-60 minutes, with extended sessions available for intensive work on specific relationship challenges.
Do you accept insurance?
We operate as a private pay practice but can provide documentation for potential out-of-network insurance reimbursement.
What makes your couples therapy unique?
Our approach combines clinical expertise with real-world understanding of long-term relationships, focusing on strength-based growth and practical communication tools.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Use our online booking system or contact us directly at (858) 735-1338 to schedule a free initial consultation.