Dawn Blake

Monday: Intensive only (multiple sessions in marathon format).

Tuesday to Friday

11am to 7.00pm

Weekend by special arrangement - crisis intensive sessions.

Please note that many of my daytime sessions are available online only. 

It is not unusual to feel stressed about beginning therapy with someone you don't know. I will do all I can to make you feel comfortable and welcome when taking these first steps.  It is my belief that everyone is unique and deserves to be treated as such, with honesty, respect and compassion. 

Since 2021 I have been working mainly with couples having completed levels 1-3 training of the Gottman Method Couples Therapy. This is a research-based approach, popular in the USA, which includes an initial detailed assessment to pinpoint the strengths and challenges in a relationship and identify the best methods to help improve communication, reduce conflict and enhance emotional intimacy. I find that this structured approach helps couples to work towards clear goals to improve their relationship. It is also enhanced by a wide range of researched-based information which gives couples the confidence to work on their own progress outside of therapy sessions. The Gottman approach focuses on helping couples achieve happier, long-term committed relationships.

More recently, I have also adapted to respond to increasing demand for neuro affirming perspectives, with particular emphasis on helping couples where at least one partner has been diagnosed with ADHD. 

I am also undertaking Doctoral studies with a particular emphasis on couples recovering from an affair and have completed additional training with Gottman in this area. I also offer help to pre-marital couples to build a sound foundation for their relationship and couples in crisis.

I initially qualified as a person-centred practitioner with an MA in Clinical Counselling from the University of Chester. I have worked with both NHS referred and private clients and have helped with a wide range of challenges. I believe the person-centred approach to be well researched, well established, gentle and effective. This core training has reinforced my belief, that everyone deserves to be treated with respect and non-judgment.

I mainly work online nationally, as I find that many couples seek out a Gottman therapist specifically, despite this being less established than in the USA. I also offer limited face-to-face sessions at Rose Farm near Tarporley.

Sessions are open ended allowing you to work at your own pace and decide how much support you need. 

I offer a complimentary 30 to 45-minute Zoom introduction with no further obligation.

Should we agree to work together, our first sessions would be focused on the Gottman assessment process, designed to jump-start couples into an effective agreed programme of therapy or decide if they wish to do so.. There is no obligation to continue after assessment, should you decide that you are not ready to enter into therapy.

If we cannot find a suitable time for sessions, or there is any other reason why we are not a good fit, I will try my best to help refer you elsewhere.