Couples/Relationship Therapy

Couples, marriage, or relationship therapy is offered to support people in relationships who may be considering a separation or divorce. Or they may be seeking improved communication, conflict resolution skills, intimacy, connection, or understanding. In couples counseling, the relationship is the primary focus. However, each partner should anticipate focusing on their own self-improvement and self-awareness.

Our Therapists Who Specialize in this Area

My clinical and personal experiences have taught me that life is not always easy or predictable. However, I believe that all human beings have the capacity to survive and thrive amidst mental and…

More info Mara Pease PsyD, LP

Mara Pease, PsyD, LP

My clinical and personal experiences have taught me that life is not always easy or predictable. However, I believe that all human beings have the capacity to survive and thrive amidst mental and physical adversity. At the same time, I also deeply appreciate that the journey in doing so can take an incredible amount of struggle, humility and vulnerability. For most, therapy and introspection involves hard work. I believe my clients demonstrate a sense of courage just by walking in the door. I communicate this understanding early on, which sets the tone for the therapeutic alliance as a relationship that is based in mutual respect and authenticity. I also strive to express a stance in which I honor all ways of being with acceptance and non-judgment. My clients are the experts on their own lives. I welcome the unique viewpoints and cultural norms that each individual brings to the therapeutic environment and attempt to remain mindful of differences in thought, behavior, context, and expression of symptomology.

I view my role as a therapist in three equal parts: a “Coach”- continuously attempting to inspire individuals to utilize their innate strengths, a “Co–Investigator”- working collaboratively to test hypotheses, set goals, direct treatment, and monitor progress, and a “Teacher”- providing education on a myriad of mental health topics from brain processes to coping skills.

For me, an integration of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques provide a flexible framework from which to work with varying needs. It also represents attention to evidence-based practice and encapsulates the essential therapeutic components that I believe translate into meaningful change. I also have advanced training in Exposure with Response Prevention (ERP), Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), which I utilize whenever appropriate.

Education:

Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Minnesota
Master’s Degree from Saint Mary’s University
Doctorate Degree from the University of St. Thomas

Experience:

10+ years of experience in hospital, private practice, neuropsychology, and community mental health settings

Specialties:

Health/Medical Concerns (e.g., Cancer, Multiple Sclerosis, Lupus, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Lyme’s Disease, Digestive Disorders, Heart Disease, Severe Food Allergies, Chronic Skin Conditions)
Grief/Bereavement and End of Life Issues
Caregiver Support
Chronic Pain
Couples
Anxiety Disorders (e.g., GAD, OCD and phobias)
Depression
Stress Reduction, Mindfulness, and Relaxation Training
Sleep Concerns

Couple / Relationship

Therapy Services