Questions and Answers

What sets you apart from other marriage therapists?
I only work with couples. All of my professional training and education focuses on helping couples create the kind of relationship they’ve always wanted. I’m also the only Sacramento-area therapist trained in David Schnarch’s Crucible Therapy.

How do you incorporate trauma therapy into relationship therapy?
Our first session will include a discussion of how trauma might be affecting your relationship. Some of my clients request individual trauma therapy sessions in addition to their relationship therapy sessions. Trauma therapy may help resolve longstanding relationship concerns after as little as two sessions. 

Do you have youtube or instagram?

youtube.com/@jameslmft
instagram.com/jameslmft

What is Intensive Relationship Therapy?
Intensive therapy is 12 hours of therapy over four days. You’re welcome

What is Crucible Therapy?
Crucible Relationship Therapy was developed by the Dr. David Schnarch. Crucible therapy is designed to help couples improve even the most difficult relationship problems, including sexual problems and problems stemming from childhood trauma.

Why do you only work with couples?
My clients make faster progress when they come to therapy with their partners. As their relationships improve, their anxiety, stress, and depression also dissipate.

What are your favorite relationship books?

These are the only relationship books I recommend to my clients. Most relationship books fail to address the underlying dynamics that drive relationship distress. These books don’t shy away from what it actually takes to create a thriving multi-decade relationship. 

David Schnarch: Living at the Bottom of the Ocean  (free PDF download)

  • Why don’t I remember more of my childhood?

  • Why is it so hard to talk about relationship concerns?

  • What is the best way to manage relationships with parents?

Bruce Tift:  Already Free

  • Why is marriage so hard?

  • What is the best way to work through relationship distress?

  • Why don’t I feel safe in my relationship?

Kathleen Smith:  True to You

  • Why is it so hard to have boundaries with family members?

  • How do I stop being a people pleaser?

David Schnarch:  Passionate Marriage

  • How can we work through differences in desire?

  • How does Crucible Relationship Therapy work?

  • How do long-term relationships work?

  • What makes marriage a people-growing machine?