Couples Therapy in Berlin
Is your relationship in a tough spot?
Reasons that can cause a relationship to falter are varied and often associated with strong emotional stress and being overwhelmed. I am here to help you find your way back to each other as a couple.
My name is Dr. Sandra Gerstorf. For many years, I have been intensively involved in couples therapy, relationship dynamics and communication. I have studied psychology in the United States,
Canada and Germany and earned my PhD in psychology.
What continually motivates me in my work?
Seeing how my evidence-based approaches and empathetic nature help people better understand and transform themselves and their relationship patterns, emerging stronger from their crises. It
brings me joy to accompany you on your journey to greater emotional stability and well-being.
What does "couples therapy" mean?
In contrast to the United States, it is still relatively uncommon in Germany to seek couples therapy. Taking this step is often not easy and there can be uncertainty about what will happen and how it will work. Studies on the effectiveness of couples therapy show that the vast majority of couples stay together and report a significantly improved relationship after counseling.
In couples therapy, your conflicts will be examined, made understandable for both partners, and new, functional ways of dealing with them will be shown. You will not only get to know your partner better, but also yourself.
The reasons that can cause relationship distress are varied and can occur suddenly (acute) or develop slowly over time (chronic). Common themes include:
- sudden, strong emotional stress, such as due to an affair or a death in the family, or an unfulfilled desire for children
- a change in the family system, such as a new blended family, or children leaving the home and moving out and both partners having to find their way back to each other
- one partner is very jealous or dominant, and the other partner suffers as a result
- both partners have gradually grown apart, do little or nothing together, have few intimate conversations or closeness
Research-based and effective: Your relationship is in good hands with me.
I have completed training in the following areas:
- Department of Clinical Psychology at the Pennsylvania State University, USA (2007-2011)
- Family Therapy Center of the University of Guelph, Kanada (1998-1999)
- Bowen Center for the Study of the Family der Georgetown University (2008)
- John Gottman Institute in Seattle, USA (2011)
- Comprehensive Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Couples with Frank M. Dattilio in Lancaster, USA (2010)
- Structural Analysis of Social Behavior (SASB) with Lorna Benjamin, USA (2009)
These trainings have had a significant influence on the way I perceive family relationships and how I conceptualize couples therapy.
Evidence-Based Couples Therapy
My approaches and methods are grounded in reliable, scientifically proven findings. I studied at prestigious institutions such as Pennsylvania State University, Georgetown University, and the
John Gottman Institute in Seattle, and I have completed numerous specialized training courses. This ensures that I stay current with the latest research and therapeutic techniques.
However, theory alone is not enough. For more than ten years, I have been working as a couples therapist in my own practice.
I also have been married for 17 years and, with all the associated ups and downs, have three children covering all developmental phases (kindergarten, elementary school, high school).
The combination of evidence-based methods and my extensive experience allows me to tailor my approach to your specific needs. This way, I can offer you practical, scientifically grounded
strategies to improve your relationship.
My goal is to help you achieve lasting and positive changes in your relationship.
Are you looking for a couples therapist in Berlin?
If you would like to schedule an initial consultation, the easiest way is to leave me a message via the form below or email at Paartherapie@EINxZWEI.de
Please also indicate what times work best for you. I will respond to you within 3-5 days.
I look forward to hearing from you!
Let's get to know each other!
I would be happy to support you in having a healthy, fulfilling and loving relationship.
Want to find out more? Please leave me a message!