Couples Counseling

As a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, I have been trained to think systemically and relationally. The context and backdrop of the human experience matters. This impacts how we show up in relationship not only with ourselves but with those around us. I specialize in working with folks of color, multiracial folks, interracial folks, multicultural couples, and/or the LGBTQ+ community. I also have experience supporting couples in open relationships. As a systems therapist, I prioritize inclusivity, intersectionality, and working from a social justice lens.

I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and I recently attended several trainings which integrate EFT and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to inform my work with couples and individuals. In my relational work with couples, I typically draw from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). EFT is an evidence based theoretical orientation which is rooted in emotion and emotional regulation while cosidering attachment theory. IFS explores the different part of ourselves that show up depending on the situation. I have advanced training in EFT as well as recent trainings that blend both models. My work is experiential. I bring in a mindfulness approach so you can begin to notice what happens in the body.

As your couples therapist, I will help facilitate the slowing down of the current cycle. Together we will create a safe space to explore how how your wounds show up when your in relationship. Often times, folks are stuck in familiar stories and people recreate what they know. Together we will work to get unstuck from these old narratives and create a safe, sacred space for us to look at the relationship from another lens. I offer a third perspective to explore emotions, feelings, old wounds, past ruptures, current hurts and assist partners to make new meaning. Together you will learn new skills to integrate into the relationship. The slowing down of time and space in couples counseling allows for the response to be done differently.

It is an honor and a privilege to witness couples on the journey of connection and repair. Couples work can be challenging, uncomfortable, and bring up different parts of you that you did not expect. I will do my best to help you get unstuck from the entrenched negative cycle of reactivity and grow into deeper emotional security. The goal in my work is for a more empathic response to those you love and to create a more secure attachment.

If uncoupling is what you are seeking support for, please reach out. I can support your dynamic wherever you are at.

I know couples therapy can feel overwhelming. Please email me at: amandaayalatherapy@gmail.com or call me at 503-208-4014 if you would like to set up a free 20- 30 minute consultation to see if we are a good fit.