Counselors

Meet Michelle Liva:

“Very rarely is an argument truly about the dishes not getting washed. It’s that the dishes didn’t get washed, which means my partner doesn’t understand or value me, so eventually he or she will leave. How often do we actually acknowledge this process going on within us? If partners can make a concerted effort to be curious about the experience of the other and locate shared meaning within moments of conflict, marriage can represent what I believe to be the “prime directive” for all human beings: stable, safe, and ever-growing connection in love. In seeking out ways to fulfill our most fundamental need for attachment and connection, we become vulnerable and open ourselves up to the possibility of pain and loss. My best hope for marriage is helping couples create a relationship that has a high level of respect, trust, emotional safety and valuing of each other. I know couples therapy is working when partners are able to increase curiosity about this fear of loss and find connection by discussing it as a shared experience. I’m empathetic, validating, and want to help couples grow with each other. I’m able to bring levity when possible and hold hopefulness for your relationship, no matter what level of conflict you’ve been experiencing.”