I've had the honor to train in the Gottman Method, work with over 250 married couples in the nation's largest research project on marital success. That project used the Gottman's materials and I saw it transform couple's lives. I've also had the privilege to sit with the Gottman's for my podcast/YouTube channel and ask them deep questions regarding their work. They are a class act and if you get a chance to attend their weekend retreats, read their books, or counsel with them - do it. They're an amazing couple with deep insights on making a marriage last. read more

Claims a money back guarantee but then refuses to refund money when customers are dissatisfied with the incredibly basic, generic program they have purchased for hundreds of dollars. Products are simple videos with simple concepts and not at all personalized. Buyer beware. read more

I contacted Gottman two times about my dissatisfied with their program. They never contacted me back except to advertise their upcoming events. Very poorly run when you won't respond to a customer. I don't recommend their program. It isn't set up for mature adults It's very basic. My $200.00 was wasted. read more

What a con game Gottman Institute is! The books say that counseling/therapy does NOT work- but interestingly THEY hire and train therapists. All designed to 'sell you' products and THEIR therapists. Stop the con game Gottman! read more

Not worth the money. the adviser says it will be a personalised plan, but it just generic to everyone. The lesson are short and really lame. they are so old fashioned and not in touch with the modern world. don't bother wasting your money. read more

I did levels I and II training for therapists and found that there was virtually nothing different than my original institute training. There is material from John Gottman's interesting research but since I had been reading his papers for over a decade nothing truly original was taught. They do have fun ways of categorizing types of behaviours and interactions, some of which I still find helpful but, again, nothing not in the public domain. , It was a good refresher if very thin on theory and way off base when it comes to their clearly unexamined biases about sex. Also, there are videotapes where the two therapists, a married couple, have several microaggressions that are painful to watch. I expected them to shine their own light on their own interactions but they were apparently blind to behaviours they themselves would have coded as negative in their vaunted lab work. No couples' therapists should be working without a good grounding in human sexuality and a relatively recent SARS--sexual attitude reassessment seminar. You risk handing down unexamined attitudes from your family and your clergy--clergy are rarely equipped to teach young people about sex and how to have a fully embodied sex life. No mention was made to issues of class or race despite the fact that there were one or two families of colour in videos--which I can sort of let pass, but many of us work cross-culturally and many marriages occur across cultures. You can't do everything but if I were a member of a non-dominant group I would have been offended by the total whitewash. I was offended. One very important element is the marathon counselling: the importance to work intensively for a short period as preferable to the old model of weekly hours. That too is not unique to Gottman. That method is only accessible to families that can shell out a few thousand for several therapy hours over a short period. I find it despicable that therapist are monetizing their insights. The Gottmans aren't the only ones. That makes their work accessible only to the middle and upper classes. Those of us that work for poor clients in agencies or for virtually pro bono rates in private practice can't shell out thousands of dollars. And when most everything is in the public domain it amounts to theivery. What if Freud, Jung, Menuchin and Skinner had hidden themselves behind a pay wall? Many of these people have research funded by government or philanthropic foundations. There are ethical issues when their insights are made accessible only to paying customers. read more

I attended a weekend workshop recently and found the presentations to be really helpful and hands-on. I really appreciated how intimate the workshop felt, despite there being probably 20ish other couples in attendance. I loved having multiple therapists around if I ever needed help. The kit that they gave me is really useful, and different than what I expected to be given at a workshop (it's fun, but challenging). I would definitely recommend their workshop to any couple strong enough emotionally/mentally to get through facing things that may have been hidden away. The price is kind of high, but if both partners are keen on working together, this is a really big help. read more

My husband and I attended the online relationship retreat with John and Julie Gottman. I have been a fan of their work for years and so I was excited for this weekend and willing to pay $4500 to go to the source. Sadly, we were both wildly underwhelmed. The facilitation was downright dreadful. First, they have no idea how to facilitate an online course--occasionally being out of center in the frame, people walking back and forth behind them (even cooking in the kitchen in the background), they look down a lot and not at the screen (which feels disconnected), and they are unfamiliar with how the tech works. For $4500, I expected better. Second, they read a fair bit of the content from the packet they send you. We could do that on our own. What's the value in having John read paragraphs out loud to us? Third, they do several "role plays" where they interact with one another to demonstrate what NOT to do. One of these was about 45 minutes long and they seemed to get completely lost in the story they were working through with one another and forgot there were several couples watching and wondering why we were witnessing what we were witnessing. And why spend so much time showing us what not to do? Seems strange and lost the thread of what we were supposed to be learning. Sadly, there's more... after one of the exercises couples do together alone and off screen, we all came back into the group and the Gottmans asked for questions. One couple brought up what their challenge was and Julie's response to them disregarded the whole purpose of the exercise we had just done and I have to speculate that it also made one of the two partners in the couple leave feeling even more broken as a result (I felt that was just watching!). My husband and I were floored at how bad they both were at facilitating. Now to the good bits that help this review be a two star rather than a one star. The materials are gorgeous, well packaged, and helpful. Receiving them added to our excitement for the weekend feeling like we were really in for the crème de la crème of relationship workshops. The exercises done off screen with my husband were helpful and interesting (although they are mostly in materials you can find in their books and other resources available without taking the workshop). Both Gottmans seem like absolutely lovely people. They are warm, friendly, and clearly smart (they just aren't skilled facilitators). The best part of the weekend without a doubt was setting aside the weekend to spend together working on our relationship. The container of the workshop aided that happening but we sort of had to find the nuggets of gold despite the facilitators. read more

The most unorganized things I have ever tried to attend . Unprofessional and extremely unhelpful to finding out any information . to the seminar I am supposed to go to in a few weeks ! Have sent out e mails left message. NO RESPONSE! I called the hotel it's supposed to be at . And they don't know what I am talking about . I feel scammed and taken advantage of . VERY VERY DISAPPOINTED! I want my money back !!! read more

Went to a weekend workshop and it was brilliant! It was so organized and well planned - and they taught real skills for real people. Absolutely worth it for couples old and new. read more

The Gottman Institute. Hands down ... Drs. John and Julie Gottman are ANGELS ON EARTH. Normally, I wouldn't be so open about personal challenges on such a public venue. I'd be a bit more discreet. However, I'm putting my caution aside so I can help others. Perhaps ... OPEN YOUR HEART AND MIND TO IMPROVE YOUR LIFE IN THE MOST IMPACTFUL WAY POSSIBLE (underline twice). Marriage is tough ... I understand! Marriage with kids is even more difficult. How many of us had the BEST examples when we grew up? How many of us have taken classes in relationship and communication skills? How many of you are experts in your marriage or relationship? Have you actually figured out all the answers? I recommend this seminar (and corresponding/supportive materials) to all couples. This list includes: engaged, committed, married happily or struggling, those on the verge of divorce, couples with newborns, those with older kids or no kids. To clarify ... ALL COUPLES! This also includes hetero and homosexual couples --- The Gottman's have done TONS OF RESEARCH and apply this research to steps and methods that could improve your relationship! The next workshop is in February in Seattle. Wouldn't it be a wonderful Valentine's present to yourselves? What is The Gottman Institute? In a nutshell, the most comprehensive, research-based organization for RELATIONSHIP BUILDING (marriage, partner and family). 35 years of research have contributed to the numerous books published and seminars developed. SIMPLE TIPS: Gottman's Marriage Tips 101 http://www.gottman.com/marriage/self_help/ This research has been validated! This is not just mumbo-jumbo of personal opinions --- this is why I am such a fan. I can learn from others' successful relationships and/or failed relationships. I can do my part to prioritize my marriage and family above everything else. I can learn to communicate more effectively and build the bond with my husband. Thus, improve my outlook and productivity in all aspects of my life. SO CAN YOU! Did you know that Microsoft is funding its' employees to go to these seminars as part of their benefits programs? If that doesn't offer credibility for the programs, then what will? At the seminar my husband and I attended ... there were 300-400 people. I didn't meet anyone else. The workshop was conducted seamlessly to make the most impact of the time available for each couple to work on their relationship. I didn't have to share my thoughts or issues with anyone but my husband (privacy was valued). There were speaking segments (quite entertaining, I must say) then breakout sessions for each couple. The exercises were relevant. The intention of the exercises was to practice a new skill and then take it home to practice even more! This weekend workshop is not considered counseling. Simply, consider it a workshop. It was wonderful. No blaming. No hostility. Truly, guidance toward positive energy, hopeful engagement and renewed commitment to your relationship! I hope I have helped at least one couple or family with this review. If so, please mark "U" for useful, "C" for cool, or "F" for funny to show your support. Us YELPERS really appreciate your U, C, and F marks! AND ... Think about going to the workshop or reading one of their publications. Definitly, check out their web site at http://www.gottman.com/ ADDITIONAL RESOURCES ON-LINE QUIZ: http://www.gottman.com/marriage/relationship_quiz/ BOOKS: Some examples are "The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work," "And Baby Makes Three," and "Raising An Emotionally Intelligent Child." Many more options http://gottmancatalog.orderport.net/1450/showall.asp VIDEO: The Gottman's Workshop for Couples http://www.gottman.com/marriage/video_workshop/ WEEKEND WORKSHOP: "The Art and Science of Love." http://www.gottman.com/marriage/weekend_workshop/ CERTIFIED GOTTMAN THERAPISTS REFERRALS: http://www.gottman.com/privatetherapy/ read more

The Gottmans most certainly are NOT sex therapists. If you want sex therapy, see an AASECT certified sex therapist. The Gottmans actually play down the effectiveness of sex therapy, but I disagree with them. When it comes to sex and porn, etc., they are out of their league. The treatment of sex and porn in Gottman's books is inhibited and not helpful. He buys into sex addiction, even though there is plenty of empirical evidence that it does not exist. This is why the DSM rejected this diagnosis, and AASECT rejected it as well. Enough! read more

Bringing Home Baby class was terrible and a complete waste of time. There was very little research presented which was disappointing given the reputation of Gottman. Minimal practical advice. Lots of watching pointless video clips of parents playing with their kids. The content was no better than you'd get from asking a friend or family member for advice. read more

Not going to lie....Mr Gottman told my wife and I that out marriage was untenable.....several months later we are separating. What can i say. He nailed it read more

I have not taken their live seminars because the cost is prohibitive - hence the four stars instead of five. Cheaper than my divorce sadly. Maybe if I had worked with them the marriage might have survived with a better outcome. I do have access to their books and enjoy them very much. Found them to be supportive, creative and non-judgemental in their approach to marriage and relationships. I highly recommend reading them prior to getting married if possible, but certainly anytime you need support and inspiration for your relationship. read more

While I'm not QUITE as enthusiastic as a previous reviewer, I would strongly recommend the books and workshops offered by the Gottmans. As a counselor, I often recommend "Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work" to clients who would like a bit of assistance in their relationships. My own reading of their works has helped me to provide better therapy and given me good ideas for exercises to do with couple clients. Last weekend, I attended a Gottman workshop with my spouse, and it was very useful. We didn't have any major problems going in, and generally felt pretty happy with our marriage. But the things we learned and the exercises we did made us even closer and more happy with our relationship. Again, I found much to be professionally as well as personally helpful. One of my concerns with Seven Principles was how it seemed to be pretty heterocentric. So, I was pleased that at the workshop they were more inclusive in their language (often using "partner" instead of husband/wife, and addressing differences between heterosexual and same-sex relationships. The workshop is a bit pricey, but if it's too much they also have an "at-home" kit for much cheaper. The only thing you miss out on with the at-home kit is the opportunity to ask questions during the lectures and make use of the roving therapists during the exercises. I am pleased with what I have learned so far as a result of this Institute, and I look forward to what will continue to come out from them. read more

Attended the Art and Science of Love workshop with my fiancé. It was high quality and helped us learn how to protect our relationship. We especially enjoyed the teaching on conflict management and how to create a better friendship together. Would recommend! read more

I have attended a number of national marriage seminars. The presenters are well respected/ top notch therapists, but unfortunately,they have adopted a corporate culture. Money has definitely has become a priority. One simple example is that in order to get your certificate, they force you to go through pages and pages of advertisement before you get to the link you need to retrieve your certificate, they charge you anywhere from $50-$100 to have a front seat and of course you will be charged for the receipt of your certificate. This is on top of what you pay for the seminar itself. Administrative staff are rude and incompetent; it took me literally months to get my certificate. Although I like their presenters, I will never attend another event organised by them. read more

My husband and I have worked with the Gottmans a few times now. The whole Gottman team is kind, professional, hard-working and attentive to your needs. The workshops and materials were very helpful to us. Both John and Julie are amazing at what they do. Very motivatig time spent with them. Their years of experience really shine through at their seminars and in their books. I look forward to working with them again soon! read more

The workshop is ok, but it seems like having the materials and doing it at home would be a very similar experience.

As a Licensed clinical Social worker, who does work with families, couples and children, I have utilized all of the works by the Gottman's. I feel that they are so helpful. Subsequently I my fiance and myself have used the book in our daily life to enhance our relationship. Additionally going through marriage prep workshops, their research and books are presented which also reaffirmed their teachings. We look to Facebook for their questions on couples as well as sparking dialogue to continually work on our relationship. Above all I am a HUGE Gottman Fan and have the goal of taking their courses! read more

Marketing and Merchandising Over Science and Substance I attended a training workshop for clinicians. My interest was peaked as the Gottman Method claims to be "validated" and "research-based". I asked the two guys doing the training (from Langley BC) for references to the outcome literature. At first they assured me that it is well validated but of course could not cite nor produce any outcome studies. Eventually they recanted and said that it is not an evidence based model and that they never said it was. They said I'd have to "intuit" my own sense of whether it worked. In my opinion this is the anti-thesis to evidence based. I asked about the validity and reliability measures for the instruments (it is heavily reliant on assessment tools). Neither of these two understood what I was asking about nor even understood that instruments were the same as assessment tools. However that didn't stop them from trying to baffle me with more BS. From what I could tell, there was little in the way of a unifying theoretical framework but rather conclusions formed from research literature revising the myths and traditional assumptions in couples therapy. A lot of techniques are presented but not much to make it into a cohesive theory. But I have to say, given the lack of credibility in the presenters, I can't take anything within the model at face value. Bottom line, if the Gottmans want to present their methodology as conforming to sound scientific principles, why can't their trainers speak intelligently on even the general topic? read more

My husband and I attended a weekend couples session 7 years ago. It was a diseaster for us as they did not address and were incapable of dealing with my husbands real issue for not being able to communicate and sustain a loving relationship. I did not know at the time, and they were not able to see, that my husband is high functioning autistic. The staff members who were in charge of helping couples during breakout sessions were not able to help us and did not ask for assistance from others who may have been better trained or equipped to deal with us. I was left to deal with him on my own. I believe that they should have been able to see what his real issue was and should have clued me in and pointed me in the right direction for the appropriate assistance I needed. At the least, they should have refunded our money. read more

I attended Gottman Seven Principles Educator training earlier this year. It was a great experience. The presentation was very professional, well organized, and thorough. I came away feeling that I had learned a great deal and that I could apply what I had learned with confidence. read more