Couples therapy in Washington, DC.
I offer couples therapy in Washington, DC, with a psychodynamic and relational approach. This is a place to understand what happens between you and your partner, including the moments when connection gives way to conflict, distance, or silence.
Beyond the
same argument.
Couples often arrive knowing the argument well, but feeling less certain about what lies beneath it. One person may pursue a conversation while the other withdraws. A small moment can begin to carry the weight of many earlier experiences.
Our work can slow these interactions down so that each partner has more room to speak, listen, and consider what is happening.
Making the
pattern visible.
- Recurring conflict and conversations that go nowhere
- Emotional distance and difficulty feeling understood
- Intimacy, trust, and vulnerability
- Differences in needs, expectations, and ways of relating
- Changes in roles, commitments, and shared life
- Questions about the relationship and its future
I approach each relationship with curiosity about its particular history, identities, cultural context, and meanings.
Understanding
the relationship
together.
My role is to help us understand the relationship and the experiences of each partner. We will pay attention to the cycle between you, the feelings that can be difficult to express, and the ways each person tries to protect themselves.
We will begin by discussing what brings you to therapy, what each of you hopes to gain, and whether this approach fits your needs. We will also review the structure of the work and confidentiality before beginning treatment.
LGBTQ+ affirming
couples therapy.
I welcome LGBTQ+ couples and bring attention to the ways sexuality, gender, culture, family expectations, and social pressures can shape a relationship. We make room for each partner’s experience and the meanings you give to your life together.
What can we discuss in a consultation?
We can talk about the nature and length of your relationship, the difficulties you each notice, and what you hope to gain from therapy. Concrete examples of a recent conflict or a moment of distance can help us begin to understand your concerns.
My experience includes couples psychotherapy in private practice, GW’s Center Clinic, and integrated behavioral health at Boston Medical Center. Learn more about my clinical background or read about my relational approach.
Couples psychotherapy is $350 for a 55-minute session. I am an out-of-network provider; superbills are available when appropriate. Read about fees and insurance.
Interested in beginning psychotherapy?
A free 15-minute consultation is an opportunity to talk about what brings you to therapy and whether working together may be a good fit.
Joseph Dorer, PsyD
Psychological Associate practicing under the supervision of a licensed clinical psychologist.
1350 Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite 605
Washington, DC 20036
(202) 714-4163
jdorer@dorerpsychology.com
Directions on Google Maps
Please use the consultation form above for consultation requests. Do not include sensitive clinical information in ordinary email.