2022/07/16

John Gottman - Wikipedia

John Gottman - Wikipedia

John Gottman

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John Gottman
John Gottman
Born
John Mordecai Gottman

April 26, 1942 (age 80)
NationalityAmerican
Occupation
Known forCascade Model of Relational Dissolution
Spouse(s)Julie Schwartz Gottman
Children1
Academic background
Education
Alma mater
Academic work
DisciplinePsychology
Notable worksThe Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work
Websitewww.gottman.com

John Mordecai Gottman (born April 26, 1942) is an American psychologist, professor emeritus of psychology at the University of Washington, who has worked over four decades on divorce prediction and marital stability. He is known for his work on marital stability and relationship analysis through scientific direct observations, many of which were published in peer-reviewed literature. The lessons derived from this work represent a partial basis for the relationship counseling movement that aims to improve relationship functioning and the avoidance of those behaviors shown by Gottman and other researchers to harm human relationships.[1] His work has also had a major impact on the development of important concepts on social sequence analysis. He and his wife, psychologist Julie Schwartz Gottman, co-founded and lead a relationship company and therapist training entity called The Gottman Institute.[2] They have also co-founded Affective Software Inc., a program designed to make marriage and relationship counseling methods and resources available to a larger audience.[3]

Gottman was recognized in 2007 as one of the 10 most influential therapists of the past quarter century. "Gottman's research showed that it wasn't only how couples fought that mattered, but how they made up. Marriages became stable over time if couples learned to reconcile successfully after a fight."[4]

Personal life[edit]

John Gottman was born on April 26, 1942 in the Dominican Republic to Orthodox Jewish parents. His father was a rabbi in pre-World War II Vienna. John was educated in a Lubavitch yeshiva elementary school in Brooklyn. He keeps kosher (the following of Jewish dietary laws) and observes Shabbat, a day dedicated to religious worship and rest.[5]

Over three decades ago, he married Julie Gottman née Schwartz, a psychotherapist. His two previous marriages had ended in divorce.[6] Gottman has a daughter named Moriah Gottman.[7]

The couple currently live in Washington state.

Education and work experience[edit]

John Gottman received his bachelor's degree in Mathematics-Physics from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 1962. In 1964, Gottman earned his master's in Mathematics-Psychology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He received an M.A. in Clinical Psychology-Mathematics in 1967 and his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology in 1971 from the University of Wisconsin.[8]

At Fairleigh Dickinson University, Gottman worked as an instructor for the mathematics department, a research assistant for the department of physics, and as researcher for the school of engineering. At the Lawrence Radiation Laboratory, he worked as a computer programmer and mathematician. He was a program evaluator and research designer for the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. Gottman became a professor of psychology in 1981 for the University of Illinois. Additionally, he was professor of psychology at the University of Washington, Seattle for 16 years. From 2002 until today, Gottman works as the Emeritus Professor of Psychology for the University of Washington and as the Executive Director for the Relationship Research Institute in Seattle. Alongside his wife, he is also the co-founder of The Gottman Institute.[8]

Studies[edit]

Predictions of divorce[edit]

Gottman developed multiple models, scales, and formulas to predict marital stability and divorce in couples. He has completed seven studies in this field.[9] Some of Gottman's most popular work comes from his research regarding newlywed couples.

This work concludes that there are four negative behaviors that are most likely to lead to and therefore predict divorce. These are: criticism of a partner's personality; contempt, which is usually derived from a position of superiority; defensiveness; and stonewalling, which is displayed through emotional withdrawal from interactions.[10] Typically, these are actions made as a result of feeling overwhelmed by criticism coming at them from their partner.

Stable couples handle conflict in gentle, positive ways and are supportive of each other.[11] In Gottman's book Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work he addresses some standard tools that these couples implement to stay together, from taking the time to continue building a friendship with their spouse, to honoring and respecting their spouse.

He developed "The Gottman Method Couple's Therapy" based on his research findings. The form of therapy aims to increase respect, affection, and closeness; break through and resolve conflict; generate greater understandings; and keep conflict discussions calm.[12] The goal of The Gottman Method is to help couples build happy and stable marriages. Gottman's therapy model focuses more on the process of conflict within the marriage, and less on the content of the conflict.

John Gottman conducted a study based on oral interviews with 95 newlywed couples. His predictions are based on perceived marital bonds. Couples were asked about their relationship, mutual history, and philosophy towards marriage. The interview measured the couple's perceptions of shared history and marriage by focusing on the positive or negative qualities of the relationship expressed in the telling of the story. To measure each spouse’s perception about the marriage and each other, the interviewer listened to the couple’s negative or positive experiences. Rather than scoring the content of their answers, interviewers used the Oral History Interview coding system, developed by Buehlman and Gottman in 1996, to measure spouses' perceptions about the marriage and each other. Therefore, the couples' perception was used to predict whether they would gain marital stability or end up divorced. The more positive their perceptions and attitudes were about their marriage and each other, the more stable the marriage.[13]

John Gottman’s models partly rely on Paul Ekman's method of analyzing human emotion and microexpressions. Ekman’s research was primarily based on observing the micro-expressions to determine whether somebody was lying or telling the truth.[14]

The original study was published by Gottman and Christopher Buehlman in 1992, in which they interviewed couples with children. A posteriori modeling yielded a discriminant function that could discern those who had divorced with 94% accuracy.[15] Since Gottman believed that early married life is a period of adjustment, and perceptions are being formed, he sought to predict marital stability and divorce through couples' perceptions during the first year of marriage.[16]

In 1998, Gottman developed a model to predict which newlywed couples would remain married and which would divorce four to six years later. The model fits the data with 90% accuracy. Another model from Gottman can determine with 81% accuracy which marriages survived after seven to nine years.[17]

Gottman's follow-up study with newlywed couples, published in 2000, used the Oral History Interview to predict marital stability and divorce. Gottman's model fit with 87.4% accuracy for classifying couples who divorce (or not) within the couples' first five years of marriage. He used couples' perceptions about their marriages and each other to model marital stability or divorce.[16]

In a 2002 paper, Gottman and Robert W. Levenson perform a regression analysis of a two-factor model where skin conductance levels and oral history narratives encodings are the only two statistically significant variables. Facial expressions using Ekman's encoding scheme were not statistically significant.[18]

Independent studies testing Gottman marriage courses[edit]

Building Strong Families Program[edit]

BSF 15-Month Impact Report

Independent research on the impact of Gottman's marriage strengthening programs for the general public has further questioned Gottman couple education programs.

The largest independent evaluation of a marriage education curriculum developed by Gottman was conducted by Mathematica Policy Research[19] at nine sites in five states. The study was titled, "Loving Couples, Loving Children,"[20] and was a federally funded, multi-year Building Strong Families Program study contracted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesAdministration for Children and Families. The study group included low-income, unwed couples.

An impact report released by the Office of Planning Research and Evaluation[21] showed that the intervention had no positive impact and, in one case, "had negative effects on couples' relationships."[22]

Supporting Healthy Marriage Project[edit]

An ongoing study by Manpower Development Research Corporation (MDRC),[23] known as the Supporting Healthy Marriage Project (SHM), is evaluating Gottman's "Loving Couples, Loving Children" program among low-income, married couples. The multi-year, random assignment study is funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesAdministration for Children and Families. In an early impact study on the effectiveness of "skills-based relationship education programs designed to help low-income married couples strengthen their relationships and, in turn, to support more stable and more nurturing home environments and more positive outcomes for parents and their children," MDRC reported [24] "Overall, the program has shown some small positive effects, without clear indications (yet no clear negative proof) for improving the odds to stay together after 12 months."

The program is still ongoing.

Matthews, Wickrama and Conger[edit]

A study published by Matthews, Wickrama and Conger, based on couples' perceptions, was done in 1996. The study showed that spousal hostility and net of warmth predicted, with 80% accuracy, which couples would divorce or not divorce within a year.[25]

Relations and effects[edit]

In multiple analyses, Gottman has shown a plethora of relations and effects in marriage and divorce, some in peer-reviewed publications, while many others appear in Gottman's own books. Among those are:

  • The physical elements in marital conflict (i.e., physical effects are central to the inability to think, etc., in conflict situations) for which he advises a 20-minute cooling period or physical relaxation.[26]
  • The effects of "bids for connection." That is the smallest bids people do to connect and how the other reacts. For example, happy couples do have many more "bids for connection" when together, and much more "turn towards" response, and much, much fewer "turn away" - the most negative reaction. The book dedicated to this element is "The Relationship Cure."
  • The concept of "trust," which Gottman defines as having each other's backs.[27] He explains that some ways this can be achieved for couples are through "creating shared meaning, making life dreams come true, managing conflict, using a positive perspective, turning towards each other rather than away...sharing fondness and admiration", and continuing to get to know the other.[28]
  • The neutral effect provides a way out of negative interactions as most interactions do not transition directly from negative to positive. The degree of neutral effect is often overlooked as a predictor of relationship success due to the very fact that the neutral effect is simply neutral.[27]
  • The dynamic to cause divorce in the short term is different from that causing divorce later. Early divorce is characterized by the "four horsemen" of bad fighting, whereas later divorce is characterized by lower positive affect in earlier stages of the relationship.
  • Anger is not always bad for relationships. Happy couples are as frequently angry as unhappy couples. It seems that how people react to anger and how destructive they get is the crucial factor rather than the frequency of anger or fights. Gottman even says that anger is functional in marriage. The reason for anger being functional is because there is a reason behind the anger. Gottman describes anger like this as an iceberg where the raw feelings cannot be seen. Anger is what is emerging from these raw emotions.[29]
  • The "three functional styles of conflict management in couples' relationships" (Avoidant, validating, and volatile) as well as the dysfunctional style he refers to as hostile.[30]
  • 69% of happy couples still have *the very same* unresolved conflicts after 10 years, yet remain happy because they do not get gridlocked in the conflict and manage to get around it.[31] When Gottman refers to gridlock, he is describing the "rigid patterns" that couples can get stuck in when dealing with conflict.[32]

Cascade Model of Relational Dissolution[edit]

Gottman's Cascade Model of Relational Dissolution[33] states that there are four major emotional reactions that are destructive and thus are the four predictors to a divorce: criticismdefensivenessstonewalling, and contempt. Gottman calls these four predictors of divorce the “four horsemen” of marriage because they herald trouble for a marriage. They are a part of the Cascade Model of Relational Dissolution because they build upon each other. One behavior leads to the next, resulting in more hostility and less communication in a relationship, ultimately, leading to emotional separation and dissolution of the marriage.[34]

Criticism

The first indication of the cascade model is criticism. Criticism is an attack on a person's character or personality. One way to differentiate between a criticism and a complaint is in the way the statement begins. Relationships that tend to stay together begin conversations like these in what Gottman describes as a soft startup, or a tactful, respectful way of speaking, rather than in a harsh startup, which typically incorporates broad absolute statements such as “you always…” or “you never…”[35] Couples whose relationship tends to be more negative engage in criticism of one another more frequently. Frequent critiques and attacks relating to this tier can lead to other behaviors that are set out in the cascade model.

Defensiveness

Defensiveness, the second tier of the cascade model is a response to pathological criticism. A partner in this phase will attempt to make excuses or even shift blame from themselves to their partner. This phase of the cascade model can also cause their partner to feel that they are not taking their concerns seriously or that they are avoiding responsibility.[35] This is characterized by a deflection of criticism and an avoidance of responsibility. Counter attacks and criticism of one’s partner are characteristic of defensiveness.

Contempt

The third tier of the cascade model is contempt which is derived from a mentality of superiority. Pathological criticism of one another and responding to this criticism with defensive behaviors can lead to contempt. Contempt results from a lack of respect or acknowledgement. Contempt may include sarcasm, cynicism, name calling, eye rolling, mockery, or hostile humor. A general indignation and lack of respect characterizes interaction in this phase of the cascade.  

Stonewalling

Stonewalling is the final tier of the cascade model and is a response to the first three tiers. It is characterized by the building up of mental and physical barriers to avoid interaction with one's partner. An attempt to appear busy or other means of purposely avoiding contact are employed and very little communication takes place. Communication that does take place is not meaningful and can often be destructive. This often occurs when an individual feels overwhelmed, and it is strongly related to the experience of emotional flooding.[36]

Flooding

Emotional flooding occurs when a person feels inundated with sudden negative emotions and behaviors (often the first three predictors in this model,) and it leads them to promptly end or avoid further interaction with their partner. This experience can diminish their ability to communicate effectively, and it may compel them to stonewall or exhibit other avoidant behaviors.[37] Although flooding is not one of the main four indicators of divorce, Gottman indicated that it was an important factor in this model. His research also noted that there are gender differences related to flooding; specifically that it is a more common experience for men.[38] It has also been linked to an increase chance of intimate partner violence, possibly due to the decreased capacity for appropriate cognitive functioning and the inability to cope with conflict that is indicative of flooding.[39]

The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work[edit]

In The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work, his most popular book, Gottman discusses behaviors that he observed in marriages that are successful and those that are detrimental to marriage, based on research conducted at his "Love Lab" in Seattle, Washington. He outlines seven principles that will reinforce the positive aspects of a relationship and help marriages endure during the rough moments.[40] These principles include, enhancing your love map (a term Gottman uses to describe the center of a person’s brain where they store relevant information about their partner), nurturing your fondness and admiration, turning towards each other rather than away, letting your partner influence you, solving solvable problems, overcoming gridlock, and creating a shared meaning.

Practical solutions[edit]

The following is a partial list of methods and practices developed by Gottman and his wife for marriage and child-rearing:

Therapist education[edit]

The Gottman Institute certifies new therapists regularly. Three levels of professional training are generally delivered through intensive two-day seminars or through at-home or online study to train therapists in Gottman Method Couples Therapy:[41]

  • Learn to integrate research-based methods and inspire transformation in your work with couples.
  • Identify the communication patterns, friendship basis, and conflict management dynamics that characterize enduring intimate relationships.
  • Discover a roadmap for helping couples to compassionately manage their conflicts, deepen their friendship and intimacy, and share their life purpose and dreams.

In Gottman's book, The Marriage Clinic: A Scientifically-Based Marital Therapy, he states that therapy should emphasize "conflict regulation, not resolution."[42]

Pre-birth workshop[edit]

Bringing Baby Home is a two-day seminar to help prepare would-be parents to a new baby, using 18 exercises and other tricks. In a peer-reviewed paper, Gottman shows that for a randomly controlled (but not blinded) experiment, couples attending the workshop were better off later, as follows: Without the workshop, 70% of couples had lower marital satisfaction relative to before birth (a common finding); 58% of mothers had some symptoms of depression after giving birth. For mothers who participated in the workshop, only 22% had depressive symptoms.[43]

Self-help books[edit]

Gottman has authored or co-authored over 40 books for a general audience, with research-backed advice for improving marriages, raising emotionally intelligent children, and on how to bring a new baby home without damaging the relationship.[44]

In Gottman's work, Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child, he lists the five steps to emotion coaching. Emotion coaching is designed to "support the development of empathetic responses and thought constructions promoting better self-management and regulation."[45] The five steps Gottman lists is his book are:

1. Be aware of your child's emotions.

2. Recognize the emotion as an opportunity for connection and teaching.

3. Listening empathetically and validating your child's emotions.

4. Help your child label their emotions.

5. Set limits while problem solving.[46]

His most famous self-help book, The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work: A Practical Guide from the Country's Foremost Relationship Expert, is widely regarded as both powerful and practical.[47][48]

The Gottman Method of Relationship Therapy[edit]

The Gottman Method is a therapy approach which focuses on supporting and strengthening couples by utilizing Gottman’s research and his theory which is referred to as The Sound Relationship House. This theory consists of nine components.

  1. Building love maps - This refers to enhancing how well one knows their partner.
  2. Nurturing fondness and admiration in the relationship.
  3. Turning towards each other - This involves being aware of a partner’s needs and responding to their bids for connection.
  4. Creating a positive perspective - This is when the couple looks for the best in each other rather than rushing to criticism.
  5. Managing conflict - Managing conflict is when you take into consideration your partner’s feelings and emotions.  Another aspect of conflict management is continual dialogue to ensure resolution.  When feeling heated during arguments, it is important to self-soothe by doing something to get your mind off the issue at hand.[49]
  6. Making life dreams come true - It is important to be with someone who is trying to inspire you to reach your goals.
  7. Creating shared meaning - This is when couples start to have rituals, traditions, and symbols that you share together.
  8. Weight-bearing wall - Cultivating trust in the relationship.
  9. Weight-bearing wall - Cultivating commitment in the relationship.[50]

Therapists can receive certification in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.[51]

Awards and honors[edit]

Gottman has been the recipient of four National Institute of Mental Health Research Scientist Awards; the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy Distinguished Research Scientist Award, the American Family Therapy Academy[52] Award for Most Distinguished Contributor to Family Systems Research, the American Psychological Association Division of Family Psychology, Presidential Citation for Outstanding Lifetime Research Contribution and the National Council of Family Relations,[53] 1994 Burgess Award for Outstanding Career in Theory and Research.[54] In addition, Gottman takes a spot in the Psychotherapy Networker's Top 10 Most Influential Therapists of the past quarter-century.[8]

Works[edit]

Gottman has published over 190 papers, and is the author or co-author of 40 books, notably:[54]

See also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ The Gottman Institute. Online Abstracts of Published Research Articles. Accessed online 14 October 2008.
  2. ^ John Gottman. John Gottman, Ph.D., Licensed Clinical Psychologist Archived 2009-02-26 at the Wayback Machine. Accessed online 14 October 2008.
  3. ^ "Affective Software, Inc"affectivesoftware.com. Retrieved 2021-07-07.
  4. ^ "The Top 10: The Most Influential Therapists of the Past Quarter-Century". Psychotherapy Networker. 2007. Retrieved 2012-07-10.
  5. ^ Weinstein, Natalie (30 May 1997), "Do you want to raise a mensch? Psychology researcher tells how"The Jewish Bulletin of Northern California
  6. ^ "Gottman Rite Held"Wisconsin State Journal. No. p.2, section 5. 14 February 1971.
  7. ^ Gottman, John M. (1999). The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. Harmony; 1st edition. pp. Dedication page. ISBN 978-0609805794.
  8. Jump up to:a b c "John & Julie Gottman - About"The Gottman Institute. Retrieved 2020-11-04.
  9. ^ "How Dr. Gottman Can Predict Divorce (with 94% Accuracy)". The Gottman Relationship Institute. 23 August 2017.
  10. ^ Mann, Jeff (2015-09-10). "Scientists say this facial expression can kill a relationship"Brain Fodder. Retrieved 2021-07-01.
  11. ^ "Research FAQs". The Gottman Relationship Institute. Retrieved 21 March 2012.
  12. ^ "What is Gottman Method Couples Therapy?". The Gottman Research Institute. Retrieved 21 March 2012.
  13. ^ Buehlman, K.T., Gottman, John (1996). The Oral History Coding System.(In J. Gottman (Ed.), What predicts divorce? The measures. Hillsdale, NJ: Erlbaum.
  14. ^ "Microexpressions: A Universal Language You Wear on Your Face"Orlando Science Center. 2020-04-29. Retrieved 2021-07-01.
  15. ^ Buehlman, K. T.; Gottman, John; Katz, L. F. (1992). "How a couple views their past predicts their future: Predicting divorce from an oral history interview". Journal of Family Psychology5 (3–4): 295–318. doi:10.1037/0893-3200.5.3-4.295.
  16. Jump up to:a b Carrere, S.; Buehlman, K. T.; Gottman, J. M.; Coan, J. A.; Ruckstuhl, L. (2000). "Predicting marital stability and divorce in newlywed couples". Journal of Family Psychology14 (1): 42–58. CiteSeerX 10.1.1.514.2214doi:10.1037/0893-3200.14.1.42PMID 10740681.
  17. ^ Gottman, John (2003). The Mathematics of Marriage. MIT Press. ISBN 978-0-262-07226-7. Archived from the original on 2009-02-27. Retrieved 2008-10-14.
  18. ^ Gottman, JM; Levenson, RW (2002). "A two-factor model for predicting when a couple will divorce: exploratory analyses using 14-year longitudinal data". Fam Process41 (1): 83–96. doi:10.1111/j.1545-5300.2002.40102000083.xPMID 11924092.
  19. ^ "Family Support Policy Research"Mathematica.
  20. ^ "Resources for Couples | The Gottman Institute".
  21. ^ [1] U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Planning, Research and Evaluation.
  22. ^ Building Strong Families Program Impact Report, Mathematica Policy Research, May 2010.
  23. ^ "MDRC"MDRC.
  24. ^ Knox, Virginia, et al. "Early Impacts from the Supporting Healthy Marriage Evaluation," MDRC, New York, NY, March 2012.[2]
  25. ^ Matthews, Lisa S.; K. A. S. Wickrama; Rand D. Conger (August 1996). "Predicting Marital Instability from Spouse and Observer Reports of Marital Interaction". Journal of Marriage and Family58 (3): 641–655. doi:10.2307/353725JSTOR 353725.
  26. ^ The Marriage Clinic, John Gottman, 1994
  27. Jump up to:a b The Science of Trust, John Gottman, 2011
  28. ^ L’Abate, Ryback, Luciano, David (2012). "Review of "The Science of Trust: Emotional Attunement for Couples," by John M. Gottman". The American Journal of Family Therapy40 (5): 459–460. doi:10.1080/01926187.2011.637485S2CID 144022258 – via Ebsco.
  29. ^ "The Anger Iceberg"The Gottman Institute. 2016-11-08. Retrieved 2021-07-01.
  30. ^ Busby, Holman, Dean, Thomas (2009). "Perceived Match or Mismatch on the Gottman Conflict Styles: Associations with Relationship Outcome Variables". Family Process48 (4): 531–545. doi:10.1111/j.1545-5300.2009.01300.xPMID 19930437 – via Ebsco.
  31. ^ The Marriage Clinic, John Gottman, 1994
  32. ^ Tapia-Villanueva, Molina, Aspillaga, Cruzat, Pereira, Sotomayor, Armijo, Luis, María, Carolina, Claudia, Ximena, Gianella, Patricia, Iván (2014). "Factors preventing gridlock in Chilean couples' relationships based on the discourse of couples therapists and highly adjusted couples". Australian and New Zealand Journal of Family Therapy35 (4): 462–478. doi:10.1002/anzf.1076 – via Ebsco.
  33. ^ Handbook of interpersonal communication. Knapp, Mark L., Daly, John A. (John Augustine), 1952- (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications. 2002. ISBN 978-0761921608OCLC 49942207.
  34. ^ Fowler, Craig; Dillow, Megan R. (2011-02-02). "Attachment Dimensions and the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse"Communication Research Reports28 (1): 16–26. doi:10.1080/08824096.2010.518910ISSN 0882-4096S2CID 143729646.
  35. Jump up to:a b "The Four Horsemen: Criticism, Contempt, Defensiveness, & Stonewalling"The Gottman Institute. 2013-04-24. Retrieved 2021-07-01.
  36. ^ Malik, Jill; Heyman, Richard E.; Slep, Amy M. Smith (Mar 2020). "Emotional Flooding in Response to Negative Affect in Couple Conflicts: Individual Differences and Correlates"Journal of Family Psychology34 (2): 145–154. doi:10.1037/fam0000584ISSN 0893-3200PMC 7007326PMID 31393141.
  37. ^ Kashian, Nicole (2019-11-24). "The Influence of Channel, Flooding, and Repair on Effective Couple Conflict Communication"International Journal of Communication13: 20. ISSN 1932-8036.
  38. ^ Gottman, John M. (1993). "A theory of marital dissolution and stability"Journal of Family Psychology7 (1): 57–75. doi:10.1037/0893-3200.7.1.57ISSN 0893-3200.
  39. ^ O'Leary, K. Daniel; Slep, Amy M. Smith; O'Leary, Susan G. (Nov 2007). "Multivariate models of men's and women's partner aggression"Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology75 (5): 752–764. doi:10.1037/0022-006X.75.5.752ISSN 1939-2117PMID 17907857.
  40. ^ Gottman, John; Silver, Nan (1999). The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. Three Rivers Press. ISBN 978-0609805794.
  41. ^ "Research-based couples therapy training for individuals and groups," The Gottman Relationship Institute website, retrieved November 26, 2012. "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 2012-11-23. Retrieved 2012-11-26.
  42. ^ Leggett, Debra (2009). "The Marriage Clinic Casebook". The Family Journal: Counseling and Therapy for Couples and Families17: 384 – via Ebsco.
  43. ^ Shapiro, Alyson F.; Gottman, John M. (January 2005). "Effects on Marriage of a Psycho-Communicative-Educational Intervention With Couples Undergoing the Transition to Parenthood, Evaluation at 1-Year Post Intervention"Journal of Family Communication5 (1): 1–24. doi:10.1207/s15327698jfc0501_1ISSN 1526-7431S2CID 55596629.
  44. ^ "John M. Gottman"www.goodreads.com. Retrieved 2020-08-22.
  45. ^ Gus, Rose, Gilbert, Licette, Janet, Louise (2015). "Emotion Coaching: A universal strategy for supporting and promoting sustainable emotional and behavioral well-being". Educational and Child Psychology32: 36–37 – via Ebsco.
  46. ^ Gus, Rose, Gilbert, Licette, Janet, Luise (2015). "Emotion Coaching: A universal strategy for supporting and promoting sustainable emotional and behavioral well-being". Educational & Child Psychology32: 36–37 – via Ebsco.
  47. ^ "Independents/Chain Bestseller List"archive.nytimes.com. Retrieved 2021-03-09.
  48. ^ Van Zutphen, Neal (2016-12-31). "Book Review: The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work"Journal of Financial Therapy7 (2). doi:10.4148/1944-9771.1141ISSN 1944-9771.
  49. ^ "CONFLICT RESOLUTION: WHAT WORKS? - ProQuest"www.proquest.com. Retrieved 2022-01-21.
  50. ^ "What is The Sound Relationship House?"The Gottman Institute. 2020-11-30. Retrieved 2021-07-02.
  51. ^ "The Gottman Method - About"The Gottman Institute. Retrieved 2020-11-04.
  52. ^ American Family Therapy Academy website
  53. ^ "Home | National Council on Family Relations"www.ncfr.org.
  54. Jump up to:a b "About John Gottman" Archived 2010-01-27 at the Wayback Machine on the Gottman Institute website

External links[edit]

2022/07/15

What People Say - Mark Wolynn

What People Say - Mark Wolynn

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Jason M

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Your strong fierce boundaries allowed me to trust you, which is very,very rare for me. You held the space so deeply that it allowed me to open up and be vulnerable enough to touch and shift such an old wound (and in a room full of people!!!) thank you, thank you, thank you. You have such a beautiful gift of being able to hold people in a sacred profound way. The world is a better place because of it.
Meagan D.

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I enjoy your style with abundance of teaching and precision of language that communicates and heals.
Kevin P.

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I feel like I got the tip of the iceberg, of what Mark has to teach, in the one day workshop Mark just offered in NYC. It was great and I want more.
Danica M.

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I attended the Free to Love workshop that Mark held at the New York Open Center on Saturday and found it to be the most informative day I have ever had. I have already started putting Mark’s suggestions into action.
Janet L.

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I appreciated your clarity of presentation when constructing the family constellations, and how much learning I gained from your work. Thank you for your generosity in sharing of your knowledge and wisdom.
Marga Hanna

Psychotherapist and Art Therapist, MA, RCC, ATR

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Your work is very inspiring, and touched me very deeply. Your compassion, sincerity, and ability to facilitate insight and change is truly amazing!!
Shelley Gordon

RSW, RCC

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I was in awe of your intuitiveness, insight and your trust in yourself. Your are such a role model for ME, and I thank you for this.
Judy B.

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

And Mark’s intuition and trust in his skill as an instructor is simply incredible to be around. He’s a master at his ‘craft’, no question about it!!!
Jessica K.

PRIVATE SESSION

Thank you for the work you did with my husband and me. It’s been transforming.
Cassie D.

PRIVATE SESSION

Our session has put me on a path of healing that I have not been able to find with any other modality.
Carla Green

BScPT, Reg.Ac.

PRIVATE SESSION

He had incredible insights into my situation and the advice he offered will be truly helpful, I have already felt a change starting in my life outlook because of a new awareness for what is truly happening.
Jeff G.

PRIVATE SESSION

Thank you again for your wonderful work. My time with you was life changing.
Koree S.

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Settling back in after amazing training. It had more of an impact than I realized–I mean as a client, not just a student. Such rich work…
Liz M.

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I’ve participated in many constellations and trainings. I have to say Mark Wolynn is the best I know. It’s some of the most powerful re-programming of unconscious patterns that I’ve found.
Georgia R.

PRIVATE SESSION

I found the session to be life-changing. Ironically, I started a beautiful, healthy, and loving relationship shortly after we spoke.
Maggie W.

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I just wanted to thank you for all of your teachings. I’m filled with gratitude as my understanding deepens. Each fleck of wisdom shines a light of compassion on the world around me and I see opportunities for something better. I look forward to learning more.
Gregg S.

PRIVATE SESSION

Thank you for the work you did with my husband and me. It’s been transforming.
Isabelle Johansen

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I feel like I got the tip of the iceberg, of what Mark has to teach, in the one day workshop Mark just offered in NYC. It was great and I want more.
Deborah Milosevich

PRIVATE SESSION

Frankly, the results of a single session with you were nothing short of miraculous. I have never experienced such rapid transformation. My relationship with my mom and dad is unrecognizable. I have learned to ‘take’ love from them, and genuinely feel love and tenderness towards them. I have reached a level of acceptance for who they are which is unprecedented for me.
Tony M.

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Your strong fierce boundaries allowed me to trust you, which is very,very rare for me. You held the space so deeply that it allowed me to open up and be vulnerable enough to touch and shift such an old wound (and in a room full of people!!!) thank you, thank you, thank you. You have such a beautiful gift of being able to hold people in a sacred profound way. The world is a better place because of it.
Sherry Rounds

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Thank you so much for sharing such a powerful, transformative workshop with our students. Two of our staff members who participated said it was the best workshop they’ve ever taken here. They also deeply appreciated the time you took after the workshop to continue to answer their questions.
Sandy Levine

Program Director of The New York Open Center

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I can’t say how happy I was to have you here! Thank you so much for sharing with us your wisdom, knowledge and compassion.
Claire Degenais

2013 Montreal Training Program

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I just want to thank you again for such a great workshop at Kripalu! I feel as though I’ve had about 6 months of therapy in just that one short weekend! I loved the intimacy of our group, and watching you work with each person individually was remarkable.
Jessica R.

PRIVATE SESSION

Mark’s ability to see into the “issue” at hand (& heart) is soulful, helpful and full of powerful healing. His awareness and intuitive finesse guided me through a truly powerful breakthrough… I look forward to more constellation healing ;~}
Dawn Alane-Kelmenson

PRIVATE SESSION

I have been ‘drug-free’ and depression free for over 18 months!
Caitlyn M.

PRIVATE SESSION

When my clients can benefit from doing deep work, I don’t hesitate to send them to Mark. He has the ability to guide people through difficult issues with great insight and compassion.
Alexandra Kreps

MD

PRIVATE SESSION

The lack of love or connection from my parents has always been my story and the belief that there is something inherently wrong with me. But, now I see where it comes from and how to move forward to heal it. It is time to take my life back. I now have passion and hope—something I have not had in many, many years! Thank you Mark!
Gerry J.

PRIVATE SESSION

I feel like my whole world has changed. I’ve gone from believing that I’ve been sold short all my life to realizing how very blessed I’ve been. I suddenly feel like I have a lot more love to give. My daughter and I are closer and my husband and son are bonding. There were changes immediately! In fact, I changed around the seating at the dinner table and no one said a word. Ha, goes to show you the power of a mother! Thank you so very, very much for your work. I have a feeling that I’ll be increasingly more thankful in the months and years ahead.
Anne R.

PRIVATE SESSION

I like to thank you again for taking the time to talk to me yesterday. I felt a lot of pressure was released. I have decided to get back in touch with my mom soon. You are right. She deserves more respect from me. I can’t wait to talk to her. Thank you for making it happen!
P.W.

PRIVATE SESSION

Mark Wolynn is an insightful, perceptive, intelligent, authentic teacher / facilitator with this unique ability to hear the Core Language to uncover the hidden dynamics of health or emotional challenges. A private session or a workshop shared with Mark is one where inner transformation occurs. I would recommend him with confidence.
Johanna Lynn

PRIVATE SESSION

I had a wonderful sense of peace after our conversation.
Laurie B

PRIVATE SESSION

I learned so much from you indirectly in regard to the work that you did with one of my clients. It opened my eyes to a whole new dimension of understanding around the idea of bonding in illness and continuing family legacies of destruction, illness and death.
Judith Gusky

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I highly recommend Mark Wolynn to all of you dealing with family “stuff”. Went to one of his workshops a few years ago. He’s awesome!
Sally K.

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I have never forgotten my family constellation experience with you a few years ago. It was truly the most powerful healing experience I have ever had. The imagery of it has stuck in my mind and spirit as if I were there.
Patricia G.

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

How fortunate I attended the workshop and training! i believe it is the great compassion and firm belief in humanity both you and Shannon hold that have guaranteed the beautiful work. Honestly, there’s not much right word i can find to describe what I have experienced.
Melissa Zheng

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Although I haven’t met a romantic partner yet since my family constellation, I am falling madly in love with my mother like never before. My relationship with my mother had turned 180 degrees! I am feeling an incredible amount of love. Of course, it also comes with grief for the years that we had missed each other’s love. So I just want to say thank you! The constellation transformed my relationship with my mother in real life. My relationship with my siblings have also transformed positively.
Kim D

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I can’t thank you enough for the amazing weekend. I really loved every single minute of it. Please convey my gratitude to Mark and Shannon. They are both masterful. I want to take the workshop again ASAP so please keep me posted.
Gila

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I wanted to thank you for your part in the amazing changes that have taken place in my life since the constellation. I had some profound and unexplainable experiences the few days following our constellation that confirmed everything you stated that day.
C.G.

PRIVATE SESSION

My son is changing in great ways. He’s happier, more energetic, less angry. His passion for skiing has returned. I feel like I have my son back. Thank you.
Susan V

Consultant

PRIVATE SESSION

I feel so much lighter. That wet blanket feeling, all that heaviness is gone. I’m excited again. I’m even looking forward to reconnecting with my job. Also, my sinus headaches have relieved.
Ann Beitz

Medical Sales

PRIVATE SESSION

I was a bit skeptical about hypnotherapy, but Mark made me feel very comfortable. I found him to be knowledgeable, professional and personable. He had me explore some feelings that had been nagging my subconscious for years. The process was much more relaxing and easier than I expected. When we were finished, I truly felt I had a clearer understanding of many of my core feelings and beliefs.
Seth Toback

MD

PRIVATE SESSION

With great insight and instinct, Mark took me to depths I never thought possible, unlocking memories deep within my body. He has helped me to come to terms with my soul’s suffering and connect me more deeply with my life’s purpose.
Betsy Reiling

Homeopathic Physician

PRIVATE SESSION

My son seems to be in remission with the ulcerative colitis. Still on meds, but to date, no flare ups. Thanks so much.
Carole T.

Accountant

PRIVATE SESSION

You are doing God’s work. I wanted to tell you that I feel like a crushing weight has been finally lifted off of me.
Marissa M.

PRIVATE SESSION

Mark, I just want to thank you again for your role in my healing process. I feel that I owe you a debt of gratitude. Without your help and support, I don’t believe that I would have been able to successfully work through the trauma of my past. I have to admit though, at first I was quite nervous at the thought of working with a male therapist. My fears were quickly allayed after experiencing your kind, soft-spoken manner, your gentleness and your compassion. You truly are a wonderful therapist.
Michelle Newhart

Psychotherapist

PRIVATE SESSION

I’ve tried psychotherapy before, but it didn’t work, and I didn’t want to take medicine. The work I did with Mark helped tremendously, giving me insight into my phobia. I no longer have the thought that something terrible is going to happen.
Susan Dixon

Administrator

PRIVATE SESSION

Please use my experience, my story – as well as my work with you – to educate others (about self-injury) that there is help. I would also like to say a big THANK YOU – for helping me… well for saving my life and renewing my hope.
Erin O’Conner

PRIVATE SESSION

I never realized how traumatized my body really was. I had seriously never ever cried in that way, and I felt very safe with you. I felt terrified, but I knew I was going to be OK. I can’t thank you enough for your leadership and guidance. I am continuing to feel the effects of the therapy, and no longer feel as adamant about being alone.
Norena B.

PRIVATE SESSION

There is no way I could have done this without your help. The difference you’ve brought about in my life continues to be remarkable. My relationship with my brother is on a whole new level. I have an entirely new approach to life now, thanks to you. I am forever in your debt.
Susan Nelson

Actress

PRIVATE SESSION

I was so impressed with his client work that I hired him to facilitate classes at my Holistic Health Center.
Deborah Barr

Director, Whole Health Resources

PRIVATE SESSION

Yesterday’s session was truly profound…today, I feel lighter and more at peace than I have in quite a while. Your careful, thoughtful and respectful guidance has (once again) helped me tremendously. Thank you for bringing some clarity into this morass of overwhelming feelings that I have been grappling with.
Lorie Obernauer

Business Owner

PRIVATE SESSION

I can’t thank you enough for our session today. After leaving your office, I felt like a great weight had been lifted from me. It was incredibly liberating. Before seeing you, I felt like I was floating, and I didn’t have any real direction or purpose; there wasn’t an end in sight for me. I can’t begin to explain how much you’ve helped me and how awakening this whole experience has been. In such a small amount of time, you have made such a profound impact on my life, and I will be forever grateful to you for that. This has been a life-altering experience. I will never look at life or death in the same way again. You do such incredible and admirable work, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you did for me today.
Beth Shafer

PRIVATE SESSION

Thank you again for all that you have helped me to see. I am constantly amazed at the depth of your perceptions of occurrences and their solutions. I wouldn’t be where I am today without your expertise.
Alice McIlvane

PRIVATE SESSION

After the session, my stage fright was completely gone. My friends and teachers tell me I seem like a whole new person. I would definitely recommend Mark and his work.
Lisa Arianna

Actress

PRIVATE SESSION

I felt total comfort in Mark’s presence. His gentle and supportive manner allowed me to confront some very difficult issues.
Nikki Zapach

Clinical Psychologist

PRIVATE SESSION

Our session was only last week and i feel a much greater sense of direction, where to take things now and what I need to do. I have already made some of the steps. So thank you for that and I am sure I will be writing again to thank you.
Carrie G.

PRIVATE SESSION

The cat allergies have lessened, and I’m not afraid of cats anymore. I no longer have that burning sensation in my eyes. The eye doctor even changed my eyeglasses to a weaker prescription.
Bonnie Rothrock

Engineer

PRIVATE SESSION

Thank you for the very healing session. I feel a difference already. Of particular note — my son said to me when I returned, ‘Mom, I feel improved since you left, like I can live on my own now.’ This was out of the blue, uncharacteristic and amazingly affirming. Appreciate your work!
Sara Carlotti

Psychologist

PRIVATE SESSION

I want everyone I know to go see you. I can’t even begin to tell you how much better everything is. My daughter not only returned home, but things are great between us. I can’t thank you enough for the huge turnaround in our lives.
Melissa B.

Marketing Director

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

My relationship with my father continues to grow stronger. We now talk more than ever. Before we end our phone conversations, we now say, “I love you” to one another, and fully experience the true meaning of those three words. I am privileged to have had the opportunity to work with you. Thank you!
Tamara Santucci

Consultant

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I feel like I have a whole new relationship to food. Now I feel grateful and deserving of the food that I eat. Thank you a thousand times over. How does a person thank someone for profoundly changing her life? I am eternally in your debt and filled with gratitude.
Sally Winchell

Librarian


WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I feel like I have awakened from a frightening recurrent nightmare. Everything seems quiet and calm, like the beginning of a radiant day after a summer night’s storm.
Rhonda Constantine

Retail Manager


WORKSHOP/TRAINING

You are incredibly skilled at what you do. Beautiful offering to the world.
P. Gordon

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I can finally take a full breath. I feel like a brick has been lifted off my chest. I’ve even started sleeping better and have stopped taking my sleep medication.
Nancy Williams

Mother

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I want to thank you for the healing which began in the session on Saturday. For the remainder of the weekend I marveled at the release I continued to experience and enjoy. Returning to work on Monday, I noticed the absence of anxiety.
Marilyn Shapiro

Financial Analyst

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Thank you for your wonderful classes. I truly believe you touch all your students in a special, caring way.
Lee Nesler

General Curator, The Pittsburgh Zoo


WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I wanted to thank you for the help you have given me. It has made a profound difference in how I view myself and how I interact with others. I particularly found the Constellation Work remarkable… meaningful and revealing… truly amazing. I would like very much to attend more of these sessions and work with this group in the future. A profound THANK YOU!
Karen Herzog

Artist

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I just wanted to write and say thank you to you for coming to England and for the amazing life-changing experience. The constellations are like nothing I have ever experienced before and have had a profound effect on my life. I can’t believe the changes taking place right before my eyes and on a much deeper level. We look forward to welcoming you once again to England next year.
Jolene T.

Accountant

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Mark is a trainer and facilitator of integrity, sensitivity and intelligence. He has a rare gift for getting to the heart of the issue. He is both honest and caring with those he works with. You are in good hands in his workshops and trainings and I heartily endorse his work.
Jane Peterson

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

After having a Family Constellation, I feel like I no longer need to be responsible for my mother’s pain.
Helen Rudy

Web Designer

PRIVATE SESSION

I just wanted to thank you: Gloria and I just had our four month anniversary. Our sex life is great, and in general, we are great. We owe so much of that to you! Thank you so much. You have made such a positive impact on our lives.
Darryl K.

Writer

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I feel like I have more energy than I’ve ever had before. I just have a much better outlook and feel much better about everything that’s going on. I feel like I’ve really overcome some issues that I’ve had with myself, and I’m much, much happier because of it. I’ll certainly recommend you and really appreciate all your help.
C. Fitzgerald

Business Owner

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I see hundreds of faces every day in my job, so I have learned how to read body language and I look in their eyes to see who they are. By doing so, I decide who I could ask for help in an emergency, and also, who might be a threat. I saw something special in your eyes. I would have picked you as one I could trust in an emergency, and I saw kindness. Thank you again.
Brenda

Flight Attendant

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I feel very different after the experience. Prior to the constellation, I already knew I was limited in my ability to love my husband and children. I have struggled with this for years, but anytime I try to speak to anyone about it, they tell me I am the best mother and wife they know. This only made me feel like the “best fake mother and wife,” because I did not feel what they were seeing. After the constellation, I feel free to love them in a way I doubted could happen. This is a very powerful change for me that I shudder to think I could have gone my entire life without ever experiencing or having them experience.

Barbara C.

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

“el seminario fue espectacular y ha cambiado mi vida de manera positiva” “The seminar was amazing and has changed my life in a positive way.”
Alba

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

A lot happened the week to follow for me and my family. I always knew this part was there but didn’t know how to bring it to the surface as there was so much emotion and confusion. I truly feel like a different person now. It is impossible to put into words all that has come from that piece.

Maryann Thomas

Physical Therapist

PRIVATE SESSION

It’s been well over a year since I’ve taken an antidepressant and I feel great. I’m sure you helped many people in your life time but I wanted you to know you truly made a difference in my life and I’m thankful everyday to be so blessed to have had the opportunity to cross paths with you. A lot of people around me are amazed at the difference in me.
Angela S.

PRIVATE SESSION

You made it very comfortable to discuss topics that aren’t always so easy for me to share. Thank you for guiding me towards a better place, and for the opportunity to know myself better.
Danielle

PRIVATE SESSION

Thank you for seeing my mom. She said you are a very gentle man. The following day she told me, she felt like a huge load had been lifted from her.
Donna Sullivan

PRIVATE SESSION

I no longer eat to destroy myself, I eat to nourish. And there’s a wonderful man in my life who I am having so much joy learning about. That’s been impossible until now. Thank you.
Dana G.

PRIVATE SESSION

Where talk therapy and medication failed to do anything for me, it took only two sessions with Mark for me to be freed from the anxiety that had been plaguing me for seven years. Each day felt like a giant, prolonged anxiety attack where I could never fully calm down. Now the physical symptoms are essentially gone, and I am able to live the life that I had many times thought I would never be able to live again. I have gained a new respect and appreciation for the life I once took for granted.
Mike Sinclaire

Graduate Student

PRIVATE SESSION

I’m doing great. My sons and everyone else in my life continue to reap the benefits of the work I did with Mark.
Bob V.

PRIVATE SESSION

What a superb session. The change I’m feeling within is PROFOUND.
Mary L.

PRIVATE SESSION

I’m so grateful. Tonight I had the best conversation with my Dad about the love we have for one another. We’re closer than ever. I took your advice to tell him how much he has taught me. That was last Christmas. You were right. I couldn’t have given him a more perfect gift.
Blake V.

PRIVATE SESSION

Thank you again, Mark, for the excellent session yesterday. I’m already feeling more freedom to be me! My perception of my mother (as someone who judges and criticizes me) has shifted and dropped away. It feels good!! I’m very grateful to have met such a masterful practitioner who’s able to bring about such rapid transformation ;-)). I’m very much looking forward to calling her in the next few days, and to deepening our relationship.
Shakti B.

PRIVATE SESSION

Since we talked on the phone so much healing has taken place in my life. I am completely at peace, never felt quite this way before, and I am truly enjoying my own company.
Cecilia R.

PRIVATE SESSION

I have changed significantly. I have only had 1/2 of a drink very socially since working with you. Smile.
L. Baron

Business Owner

PRIVATE SESSION

My sweating has improved. I have only had 1 or 2 episodes, not nearly as severe since we met. I noticed several times I have been in situations that may have induced the sweating and I did not. I do notice a feeling of weight being lifted from my shoulders.
Gary P.

Account Executive

PRIVATE SESSION

Thank you for the wonderful gift of helping me to understand so much of what I have been thinking and feeling for so long. So many questions have been answered (as well as prayers). I left your office feeling alive and powerful and also peaceful and hopeful. The feeling has remained.
Leah Beil

Teacher

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

There aren’t words for the changes I have had since doing your work just a few days ago. You set free the biggest block I still had in “me” and I am no longer “trying” every day. I am at peace after decades of “trying”. Thank you.
Vince Bostich

Business Owner

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Thanks again for the constellation. It seems to have been a watershed event, giving me some understanding of the origins of my Parkinson’s.
Tom D.

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I am connecting more and more with my mother, I can even see the benefit of this in my own daughter, who recently met a great guy.
Sylvia D.

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Thank you so much again for the incredible weekend. I have been searching so long for work such as this. I am so happy and grateful that I was able to connect and have the opportunity to have this experience. I am very excited to bring you down and have you share your work with so many other people I know that would benefit greatly from this illuminating work.

Suzanne Winlove-Smith

Instructor

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Wanted to thank you again for the Level I Training – which was AWESOME! I feel I got the final “piece” from working with my Mom and I can’t tell you how different I feel as a result. Really whole and together. Thank you!
Susan Wenzel

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Anyone who has worked with or experienced trauma will not want to miss the rare and unique approach Mark brings to this work. With a poet’s heart and a sage’s compassion, Mark’s deep sensitivities have allowed him access to pathways of healing that are profound. The workshop I attended with Mark a year ago continues to support how I hold myself and to deepen and enrich what I might bring to others.
Shannon Zaychuk

PhD, Chartered Psychologist

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

The difference that you help people to make in their lives is incredible! You possess an amazing gift and I can’t thank you enough for the work that you have done.
Salvador del Viento

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

You have an exceptional way of mentoring me in a way that I don’t feel inadequate and I learn so much. This is the gift of a true teacher in the most profound sense of the word.
Robyn Mott

PhD

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I no longer feel dread when I go to work. I feel much more confident and less anxious. I no longer feel like I have to fight everything.
Pamela Solomon

Nurse

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Mark, I want to say from the bottom to top of my heart, Thank you for being so fierce to help so many people to find rest and peace. You are awesome.
Nancy Doyle

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

What an incredible weekend we have had! We were not sure what to expect but the work exceeded anything we could have imagined! It has impacted us as individuals and drawn us together as a couple in many new ways. We learned more about each other in the 2 day workshop than in 27 years of marriage. This workshop is a must for any individual or couple ready to move out of the ‘hum drum’ and into ‘spectacular living!
Mike & Ellen Parish

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

This training was truly an enlightening experience for me. I was amazed by what I learned and am really looking forward to getting things started. Thank you for guiding me towards a better place, and for the opportunity to know myself better.
Lori B

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Mark is a world class facilitator.
Lone Sorrensen

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Your ability to bring difficult and non-negotiable reality to painful situations, yet with transparent and palpable compassion, is a remarkable gift–and your humility in treating it as such is a lesson.

Linden Condeni

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

The training was awesome. I am looking forward to coming back in June.
Leah Kalish

Move With Me Action Adventures

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I was truly touched by the profound healing power of the Family Constellation work and your skills and ability to facilitate healing for everyone in the training. Every day since then has been filled with a greater sense of compassion, understanding and acceptance for myself and for those around me.
Laura K.

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I feel more relaxed and in a way happier.
Justyna

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Some things have shifted already – I feel lighter in a way I cannot really explain.
Jim Vecchi

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Not a day goes by that I don’t reflect upon some of the experiences that emerged in my sessions with Mark. To say these sessions were enlightening would be an extreme understatement. I am thankful for Mark’s role in helping me with my spiritual journey. This work is a must for anyone committed to spiritual growth.
Jeff Joy

Vice President, Investments, Prudential Securities

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

The Founders HIGHLY recommend this. Mark Wolynn is truly an impeccable teacher, human being and has amazing intuitive skills.
Higher School for Conscious Evolution

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I got so much out of it. My anxiety level decreased exponentially. Mark is amazing and so is the work.
Fran

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I really appreciate the time you spent with me. The benefits are coming through daily, and the anxiety has also lessened. I also feel lighter, and younger if that makes any sense. Thanks again for your help.
Elizabeth T

PRIVATE SESSION

It has been a few months, now, since Aaron’s session. We both see improvement. He is incurring much less pain and eating better. In fact, he looks as though he may have gained back a few of the 10 lbs he lost. Thank you again for all the layer upon layer of emotional release you provided for both my son and myself.

Elaine L.

Therapist

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I took the facilitators’ training with him and participated in several workshops that he conducted and I know first-hand how effective and safe he is in helping participants move through their issues. The results for me were life changing.
Danuta Jirik

Ph D.

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I wish that I could find the words to express the harmony and peace that I feel in my soul. What I had been carrying around all of this time, since before my thoughts were my own, was pure anxiety and sadness. Yesterday I almost didn’t come, but I prayed on it hoping for clarity in my soul. You gave me a priceless level of understanding. The only thing that I say is Thank you.
Crystal

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

This week has been huge, a kind of peace I have never felt in my life. It’s already very, very different to walk in my skin.
Christine Mason McCaull

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I wanted to thank you for your dedication and commitment to your work. I am still in shock on how effective family constellation therapy is… how trauma impacts our parents’ lives, our lives, and the lives of our children at such a deep emotional level. I have a hard time thinking that any other family constellation workshop will be better than the one you provide. Mark, you are just brilliant and incredibly intuitive.
Celia Graterol

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I did my first group constellation yesterday. It went great! Thanks for everything you passed on to us.
Bruce Kalish

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I just wanted to thank you so much for creating such a powerful, safe and amazing training. I learned so much and am feeling stronger and more loved with a clearer perspective. Thank you for opening the door.
Beth R

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Well, it has been one month and I must say thank you very much, as I am feeling great. I do not even define myself as having anxiety anymore.
Ari L.

PRIVATE SESSION

I had a powerful one-on-one with Mark. His diagnosis skills are amazing…. The healing is palpable. I was able to get to core issues and create some ease and freedom within. The effect is still working itself out. I can feel it…. I suggest you drive to Marin to be in the same room with him.
John Mifsud

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Mark took my practice, understanding, scope and depth of this work to a whole new level.
Felice Laurel

Family Constellation Facilitator

PRIVATE SESSION

Since I worked with you last year, I no longer use pills to cope. That’s huge.
Denise S.

PRIVATE SESSION

Since we spoke I have been experiencing complete bliss throughout my entire physical body. My body feel’s radiant, my gaze is gentle and kind, my breath is free and my hearing near celestial. For the first time in my entire life I feel very comfortable, at peace and safe inside of myself. I no longer feel the need to “escape”. It feels really good to be at home…
Tanya G.

PRIVATE SESSION

I had a long-standing anxiety that seemed out of balance to reality. While in Mark’s training, using Mark’s approach to Family Constellations, the origin of this fear was brought to light. I have not held the same feelings since. New pieces of awareness continue to unfold every day deepening and expanding this healing. Thank you, Mark, for your outstanding facilitation.
Core Language Trainee

PRIVATE SESSION

Mark is a very skilled and elegant family constellation practitioner and this is a very rich, relationship-based method.
Cath Duncan

Social Worker

PRIVATE SESSION

I think I’ve dropped about 10lbs since the workshop. Interesting indeed.
Cindy Yim

PRIVATE SESSION

The work we did has moved me from “good enough” and “I wish I had cancer and could be done with this” to “a good man who wants to see what happens next in my life”. I can’t thank you enough.
Bob T.

PRIVATE SESSION

I’m doing great. I continue to make our interesting journey down the Lymes road. My sons and everyone else in my life continues to reap the benefits of the work I did with Mark.
Ed

PRIVATE SESSION

Thank you, Mark, for your generosity of heart, great teachings and amazing guidance in the Workshop this past weekend. I feel so honored to have had you come to Glen Head to offer such a powerful workshop.
Lorraine Aguilar

Owner, Yoga Flow Studio

PRIVATE SESSION

Mark has helped me heal my colitis, and continues to support me in ways that I wouldn’t have ever imagined. I greatly recommend him.
Christopher Brown

Sales Specialist

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Your trainings have been life changing for me.
Paul Taber

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I am getting amazing results with integrating this work into my energy healing practice. Thanks, Mark.
Lorraine DiGiovanni

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I now have the tools and skills to address the underlying sources of my clients’ core complaints. This approach has dramatically altered the way I work as a psychotherapist! I find myself changed in ways that feel both freeing and empowering….and this gift just naturally extends to my work with my clients!
Laura Martin Taylor

MFT

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

This is an incredibly intense, personal and life-changing experience. I came away with insights I had never previously considered, and it is still vivid in my mind months later. Highly recommend!
Deborah Rose

Walking Alongside Personal Coaching

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Mark is an outstanding leader of Hellinger work. I am always happy to recommend him.
Carl Johan Calleman

PRIVATE SESSION

Since our meeting, my night terrors have completely stopped. After years of suffering from this problem, needless to say, I am very relieved.
Dan T.

Paramedic

PRIVATE SESSION

I have sent Mr. Wolynn several patients who were not responding to our conventional medical therapy, and they have all improved dramatically. Several patients have discontinued use of all psychiatric medications. I recommend him highly.
Adele Towers

MD

PRIVATE SESSION

I battled depression and anxiety for more than half my life and went through years of therapy, counselling, medications. One failed remedy after another. I was amazed that after meeting with you just one time, I made more progress with you in one 1 1/2 hour session than I did in 16 years of therapy. I have had three total sessions with you and that’s all I needed – a mere 3 months and I have my life back! Thank you again!
Amy S.

Accountant

PRIVATE SESSION

Just wanted to let you know I seem to be feeling better, with fewer obsessive thoughts. And the ones that persist are less painful to encounter.
Glenn M.

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Once again, I have been blown away by your intuitive, laser like, systemic approach and your enormous good will towards others, even the most ‘difficult’ and resistant of clients!
Sally Devereux

PhD

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

Thanks so much for this training. It was excellent, not only in content but also in being very user friendly and applicable in patient care.
Robert Zieve

MD

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I wish I had all the words that could describe all you can learn and solve about yourself and your relatives with this approach… One is in awe while experiencing and watching how worries, traumas, situations are understood and tools are given to continue the healing process… I highly recommend it.
Perlita Sultan

MD

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I heard absolutely excellent things about your workshop. I am chagrined, once again, that I had to miss it, but was gratified to hear that others found it to be not only useful but deeply transformative. It sounds like you bring a very unique, valuable, and grounded voice to this work. I feel like we are really fortunate to be able to provide a platform for bringing your work to our community!
Clara Lindstrom

Programs Associate, California Institute of Integral Studies

PRIVATE SESSION

This model of therapy has provided me with valuable answers to some of the most complicated questions, both personally and professionally. Mark has the extraordinary gift to see what needs to be seen in order for deep healing to begin.
Gemma Stone

Registered Clinical Psychologist

WORKSHOP/TRAINING

I highly recommend this workshop and can assure you you will be impressed. It was through the teachings of Mark and Shannon I was able to expand my own individual work. Those of you who have experienced it understand the impact is has in such a good way. Well worth attending.
Rosina Wellmann