We all know that time spent in gratitude is good for mental health. People who regularly
spend time in gratitude experience more positive emotions. Today, I am feeling grateful
for the work of John and Julie Gottman who have researched and developed their
therapeutic approach over 40 years.

It is very exciting to witness couples use communication tools that work and come to a
better understanding of each other. Couples who are able to communicate and feel
understood show more empathy and connect more deeply. I also enjoy sharing practical
information that has come from Gottman research about what happy couples do more
often.

When I put Gottman skills into practice they deepen my connections. Not only do these
skills improve my marriage, they also improve my relationships with family and friends.
Listening for understanding with my teens improved my relationships with them. I
definitely did not get it right all the time, because I am a human, but Gottman tools
helped me get it right more of the time. I also have repair skills I can turn to when things
go sideways.

Spend some time in gratitude today and increase your positive emotions. I also invite
you to learn more about what the Gottman’s have to teach us about relationships here. They
have devoted their lives to helping couples and families thrive. I am very grateful for
their scientifically sound treatment modality and for the couples who have allowed me to
be a part of their journey.

Carrie Harris, LCSW

Learn more about Carrie and her training here: