Counselling & Psychotherapy in Crouch End

The four horsemen of the relationship apocalypse: criticism, contempt, defensiveness and stonewalling, illustrated in the Gottman approach to relationships.

The Four Horsemen of the Relationship Apocalypse

Most couples don't set out to hurt one another.

The difficulty is that when relationships become strained, people can find themselves caught in patterns of communication that leave both partners feeling hurt, misunderstood and disconnected.

Anxiety in a relationship causing emotional distance between partners

Assertiveness in Relationships Case Study

John comes to me seeking psychotherapy to help with depression and relationship issues. He says that he is no longer getting on with Sarah, they bicker all the time, and can’t seem to have a conversation without it turning into an argument.
Illustrated ACT and CBT psychology infographic showing how changing behaviour can influence emotions, with examples of practical steps that improve mood and wellbeing.

Why Behaviour Often Changes Feelings Better Than Trying to Change Feelings Directly

Thoughts, feelings and behaviours aren't equally under our control and spending too much time trying to get rid of anxiety can leave us feeling even more stuck.

So if trying to control our thoughts and feelings isn't always the answer, what should we focus on instead?

Illustration representing difficult thoughts and feelings and learning to respond to them differently through Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

Why Fighting Your Thoughts and Feelings Can Make Them Stronger

Thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are not equally under our control. While our actions are often something we can choose, emotions are much less responsive to direct commands, and thoughts sit somewhere in between.


© Andrew Martin Counselling

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