Marriage Therapy
There are many forms of couples therapy. When your marriage is on the line, it is worth choosing a modality that has been scientifically tested and proven to be effective. Dr. Ari Sytner is one of only a handful of therapists worldwide who hold PhD-level credentials combined with the highest level of training and certification by the Gottman Institute, as well as advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), offering sessions in-person and via HIPAA-compliant telehealth worldwide.
Utilizing his extensive training, Dr. Sytner works primarily with two types of couples: those who are generally doing well but want to improve their relationship, and couples who are struggling and unsure how their relationship will survive. When couples are hurting, stuck in conflict, struggling with perpetual fights, lack of trust, or overall disconnection, it can feel as if life is falling apart — and the emotional and physical weight of that is exhausting.
The approach is an empowerment model that helps couples quickly gain momentum and shift out of a place of darkness and into a state of stability. Through that empowerment, couples have tools and resources to start making changes and seeing improvement even between sessions, maximizing efficiency and helping them achieve their goals more quickly.
With great compassion, Dr. Sytner helps diffuse the tension and stress that brings couples in, creating a space that is completely free of judgment and safe for all emotions and situations to be discussed. He makes it an absolute priority to never take sides — maintaining a fully balanced approach that equally supports both partners, with the focus always on the overall relationship.
If you are frustrated by ongoing problems in your relationship, or have had negative experiences in the past with couples therapy, schedule a free phone consultation.
What Is Gottman Method Marriage Therapy?
The Gottman Method is one of the most extensively researched approaches to couples therapy in the world, developed from more than four decades of scientific study on what makes relationships thrive or fail. At its core, the method focuses on three things: reducing the patterns of criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling that erode connection; strengthening the friendship and trust that form the foundation of lasting love; and building the couple’s ability to manage conflict without destroying intimacy in the process.
Dr. Sytner holds the highest level of Gottman certification available, combined with advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) — making his approach one of the most clinically rigorous available for couples today.
Who Is Marriage Therapy For?
Marriage therapy is not only for couples in crisis. Many couples who seek support are fundamentally solid but feel stuck — repeating the same arguments, growing gradually distant, or simply wanting to build something stronger before small issues become larger ones.
Common reasons couples seek therapy include communication breakdown, recurring conflict that never fully resolves, loss of emotional or physical intimacy, recovery after infidelity or betrayal, navigating major life transitions such as having children, career changes, or relocation, and rebuilding trust after a period of disconnection.
What to Expect in Sessions
Sessions typically begin with a thorough assessment of the relationship’s history and current dynamics. Rather than positioning the therapist as a referee between two opposing sides, the approach is fully collaborative — both partners are supported equally, and the relationship itself is treated as the focus of care.
Most couples begin to notice meaningful shifts within the first several sessions. Skills and tools developed in sessions are ones couples can use immediately and independently, so progress does not stop between appointments. Some couples complete their goals in 8 to 12 sessions; others choose to continue longer as they deepen the work.
In-Person and Online Sessions in NJ, NY, and Worldwide
Dr. Sytner offers sessions in-person in New Jersey as well as via HIPAA-compliant telehealth for couples throughout New York, New Jersey, and internationally. Virtual sessions have been shown to be equally effective as in-person therapy and offer greater scheduling flexibility for couples managing demanding careers, young children, or geographic distance between partners.
Early morning and weekend appointments are available to accommodate couples with busy schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Gottman Method in marriage therapy?
The Gottman Method is a research-based approach to couples therapy developed by Dr. John Gottman. It focuses on strengthening relationships by improving communication patterns, increasing intimacy, and breaking destructive conflict cycles. The method uses specific interventions based on decades of research with thousands of couples.
How long does marriage therapy typically take?
Marriage therapy duration varies depending on the couple’s specific challenges and goals. Some couples see improvement in 8 to 12 sessions, while others may benefit from longer-term work lasting several months. The focus is on developing new relationship patterns and skills that couples can use independently.
Can marriage therapy help if only one partner wants to attend?
While marriage therapy is most effective when both partners participate, individual therapy can still provide valuable insights and tools for improving relationship dynamics. One partner can learn communication techniques and develop strategies for creating positive change within the relationship.
What types of couples benefit from marriage therapy?
Marriage therapy helps two main types of couples: those who are generally doing well but want to strengthen their relationship, and those experiencing significant struggles and conflict. Common issues include communication problems, trust issues, intimacy concerns, and recurring relationship patterns that cause distress.
Is online marriage therapy as effective as in-person sessions?
Research shows that online couples therapy can be equally effective as in-person sessions when conducted by a qualified therapist. Online therapy offers greater scheduling flexibility and accessibility, allowing couples to receive support regardless of geographic location or scheduling constraints.