Gottman method · Jumeirah Golf Estates and online
Gottman method couples therapy in Dubai
A structured, research-based approach to couples therapy. Together, you learn to manage conflict more gently, rebuild friendship and closeness, and create a life that feels shared.
Book with Chloe Ask us about the Gottman method
- Based on decades of research on couples
- Practical tools you use at home
- In person or online
- Respect for your values and culture
Need urgent help? Therapy is not an emergency service. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999 (police) or 998 (ambulance). For free, confidential emotional support in the UAE, call the National Mental Support Line on 800 HOPE (800 4673).
Your therapist
Couples therapy with Chloe McGuire
Chloe is a psychologist who works with adults and couples and draws on the Gottman method and CBT in her couples work.
Chloe McGuire
Psychologist · CBT and Gottman method
🇬🇧 🇮🇪
Chloe works with adults and couples on anxiety, stress, self-esteem, relationships and the adjustments of expatriate life, drawing on CBT and the Gottman method.
Book with ChloeNot sure who to choose? Message us and we will help you decide
What is the Gottman method
An approach built from watching real couples
Happy couples still argue. What differs is how they argue, and how they repair.
The Gottman method was developed by the American psychologists Dr John Gottman and Dr Julie Schwartz Gottman. It draws on decades of research in which thousands of couples were observed talking, disagreeing and making up.
From this research came a model often called the Sound Relationship House: strong relationships rest on friendship, on a positive view of each other, on managing conflict well, and on sharing dreams and meaning, all held together by trust and commitment.
In therapy, this becomes very practical. You learn to recognise the communication patterns that damage a relationship, replace them with healthier habits, and strengthen the everyday moments of connection.
The method is adapted to each couple and can be combined with other approaches, such as CBT.
Key ideas
What you work on together
These are some of the core ideas of the Gottman method.
The “four horsemen”
Criticism, contempt, defensiveness and stonewalling: four patterns to recognise and replace.
Gentle start-up
Raising a problem without blame, so the conversation can stay open.
Repair attempts
Small gestures and words that calm things down during an argument.
Taking a break
Noticing when emotions run too high and pausing before trying again.
Friendship and fondness
Knowing each other’s world and expressing appreciation every day.
Shared meaning
Building common goals, rituals and values as a couple and a family.
Some disagreements never fully go away. The method helps you live with them respectfully.
How it works
How Gottman-informed therapy usually unfolds
The format is adapted to each couple, but often follows these steps.
- 01
Joint first session
You both share your story, what is going well and what you would like to change.
- 02
Getting to know each of you
Your therapist may also meet each partner on their own, and sometimes use questionnaires, to understand the full picture.
- 03
Building new skills
Sessions focus on practical skills: talking about problems, repairing, and reconnecting.
- 04
Practising at home
You try exercises between sessions and review together what is changing.
Common worries
Honest answers about the Gottman method
Tap or hover each card to see the reality behind a common worry.
“We argue too much to fix this.”
Arguing is not the problem
The method focuses on how you argue and repair, not on never disagreeing.
“It’s an American method, it won’t fit us.”
It adapts to you
The tools are adapted to your culture, faith and family situation.
“It’s only for couples in crisis.”
Also for strong couples
Many couples use it to strengthen their relationship before problems grow.
Related services
Other support for your relationship
Depending on what you need, these services can complement the work.
Practical details
Everything you need to know before you start
Your sessions
Together, in person or online
In Jumeirah Golf Estates or by secure video, in English or Irish. Session length and fees are confirmed when you book.
Insurance cover for couples therapy varies by insurer and policy
Contact us before your first session and we will tell you what is possible.
- A rhythm that suits youOften every one or two weeks at first, then spaced out as things improve.
- Al Andalous Centro, Unit 20Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai. Calm, private consulting rooms.
- LanguageChloe works in English and Irish. For couples therapy in French or Arabic, see our other couples therapists.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about the Gottman method
What is the Gottman method?
A research-based approach to couples therapy developed by Dr John Gottman and Dr Julie Schwartz Gottman. It focuses on friendship, managing conflict and creating shared meaning.
What are the “four horsemen”?
Four communication patterns the Gottmans identified as particularly harmful: criticism, contempt, defensiveness and stonewalling. Therapy helps you recognise them and use healthier alternatives.
Who offers Gottman-informed therapy at Antakaya?
Chloe McGuire, a psychologist who works with adults and couples, draws on the Gottman method and CBT in her couples work.
Do we both need to come?
Ideally yes. Your therapist may also see each partner individually as part of the process.
How many sessions will we need?
It depends on what you are working on. You review progress together and decide how long to continue.
Can sessions be online?
Yes. Couples can join a secure video session together from home.
Ready to strengthen your relationship?
Book a session with Chloe, or send us a message if you would like to ask a question first.