I don't believe healthy relationships come from learning the perfect script or never arguing.

Instead, I help couples understand the patterns they're caught in, deepen emotional connection, and learn how to respond to each other with greater empathy and clarity. My work integrates Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Method principles, Family Systems theory, and the Prepare/Enrich assessment to create an experience that's practical, thoughtful, and deeply personal.

Whether you're preparing for marriage or simply wanting to build a stronger foundation, my goal is to create the kind of safety that makes honesty possible.

Yes.

I offer virtual premarital counseling throughout Texas as well as in-person sessions in Cedar Park, serving couples throughout the greater Austin area, including Leander, Round Rock, Georgetown, and North Austin.

The first session is all about getting to know the two of you.

We'll talk about your relationship story, what brings you to premarital counseling, what you're hoping to gain, and any areas you'd like to strengthen before marriage. You'll also have the opportunity to ask questions and get a feel for how I work.

There's no pressure to have everything figured out. We'll simply begin the conversation together.

Not unless you want it to be.

My practice takes a secular approach, meaning our work is guided by research, relationship science, and your personal values. If your faith is an important part of your relationship, I'm always happy to make space for those conversations, but they won't be assumed or imposed.

Yes.

The Relationship Space is an inclusive, affirming practice where all couples are welcome. My approach is grounded in respect, curiosity, and understanding rather than assumptions about what relationships "should" look like.

My goal is to help you build a relationship that feels authentic to the two of you.

Long relationships benefit just as much from premarital counseling.

Even couples who have lived together for years often discover new insights about one another once they begin talking intentionally about marriage. The commitment itself brings up new hopes, expectations, fears, and family influences that deserve thoughtful attention.

Absolutely.

Many couples assume that a lack of conflict means they're prepared for marriage. Sometimes it does. Other times, it means certain conversations simply haven't happened yet.

Premarital counseling creates a space to discuss topics that can be difficult to bring up on your own, helping you build confidence in having honest conversations before they become high-stakes issues.

I certainly think so—but research does, too.

Studies consistently show that couples who intentionally invest in their relationship before marriage often report stronger communication, greater relationship satisfaction, and increased confidence navigating challenges together.

More importantly, couples frequently tell me they leave feeling more understood by one another. That's a gift that extends far beyond the wedding day.

The earlier, the better.

I generally recommend beginning at least three to six months before your wedding. This gives you plenty of time to have important conversations without adding unnecessary stress during the final weeks of wedding planning.

That said, it's never too late. Whether your wedding is next month or next year, there's still meaningful work we can do together.

Most couples choose between six and eight sessions, although every relationship is different.

Some couples are preparing for a wedding in a few months, while others begin a year before they marry. We'll create a plan that fits your timeline and your goals instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach.

Yes! I'm a certified Prepare/Enrich Facilitator and often incorporate the assessment into premarital counseling.

Prepare/Enrich provides personalized feedback about your relationship's strengths and areas for growth. Together, we'll use the results as a starting point for meaningful conversations rather than treating them like a test you have to "pass."

Every couple is different, but we often explore topics like:

• Communication styles

• Conflict and repair

• Family dynamics and expectations

• Finances

• Intimacy and emotional connection

• Household roles

• Parenting values

• Friendship and trust

• Stress and life transitions

• Long-term goals

Rather than checking boxes, we focus on understanding the relationship patterns that naturally develop between two people and learning healthier ways to respond to one another.

Honestly, that's often the best time to begin. Premarital counseling isn't just for couples in crisis. It's designed to help strong relationships become even stronger by giving you the tools to navigate conflict, communicate more effectively, and build a shared vision for your future together.

Many of the couples I work with simply want to start marriage with intention rather than waiting until problems become painful. Think of it as preventative care for your relationship.

Secular relationship counseling is relationship-focused therapy that is not based on a particular religious tradition, faith perspective, or spiritual framework.

In our work together, we will explore your values, beliefs, goals, and relationship experiences without assuming any specific religious viewpoint. My approach is inclusive and respectful of clients from all backgrounds, including those who are religious, spiritual, questioning, agnostic, atheist, or simply seeking a non-faith-based counseling experience.

The focus remains on helping you build healthier, more fulfilling relationships that align with your own values and goals.

Not at all.

At The Relationship Space, relationships are viewed broadly. This includes your relationship with yourself, romantic partners, family members, friends, colleagues, and your larger community.

Many individual clients seek therapy to better understand relationship patterns, improve communication, strengthen boundaries, navigate family dynamics, or build a healthier relationship with themselves.

At this time, I do not provide therapy services for children or adolescents.

My practice is focused on working with adults, couples, and relationships. If you are seeking therapy for a child or teenager, I am happy to provide referrals to trusted clinicians who specialize in working with younger clients.

At this time, I operate as a private-pay practice.

Many clients choose private-pay therapy because it allows for greater privacy, flexibility, and individualized treatment. Depending on your insurance plan, you may be eligible for out-of-network reimbursement. I can provide a superbill that you may submit directly to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.

Because insurance benefits vary widely, I recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to verify your out-of-network mental health benefits.

I am committed to providing ethical, respectful, and professional care.

If you have concerns about services received, I encourage you to discuss them with me directly whenever possible so we can work toward resolution together.

Clients also have the right to file a complaint with the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC), the agency responsible for regulating licensed mental health professionals in Texas.

Methods to File a Complaint:

Consumer Protection Portal

Consumer Protection Hotline: 800-621-0508

BHEC Complaint Site

BHEC 24-hour, toll-free complaint system: 1-800-821-3205