Danielle Bruns, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Tempe, Arizona

Verified

Professions: Marriage & Family Therapist

Languages: English

My Approach to Therapy

I help couples understand where they are stuck and where they need to focus their energy to repair. I believe it is important to understand the deeper emotional experience that fuels distance and conflict. I also understand the importance of practical tools that are simple and easy to use. I work from the philosophy of the Gottman Method, with a foundation in psychodynamic therapy. I offer relationship therapy for dating couples, engaged couples, and married couples. I also help individuals who are struggling with depression symptoms, anxiety, or relationship distress. I focus on helping clients understand what’s going on beneath the surface, instead of only focusing on visible symptoms, to support meaningful change. I pay attention to the influence of the past and help clients identify patterns. I also integrate eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to help the brain resolve past trauma.

On the Fence About Going to Therapy?

The best way to make a decision here is to take advantage of free phone consultations. Many therapists offer them and it is a great way to learn a lot about the therapist and your own goals for therapy.

Had a Negative Therapy Experience?

First, it is exciting that despite your negative experience, you are here looking for another therapist. Second, you are on the right track because you are guiding your process instead of letting your negative experience dictate your next steps. Each therapist is different and needs to be a fit for your personality. I encourage you to continue what keeping your mental health a priority, regardless of the behavior of others.

The Duration and Frequency of Therapy

Because each couple is unique, the length of therapy is unique as well. This is a conversation that will be included in the process of therapy. I start with a session with the couple and then have one session with each individual to ensure I obtain an accurate picture of your challenges. After this initial assessment, I meet with a couple once a week.

Expertise & Specialties

Age Groups I Work With

AdultsElders

Groups I Work With

I work with couples at all stages of their relationship, addressing infidelity, emotional distance, parenting challenges, major life transitions, or recurrent conflict that is eroding the quality of connection. I also commonly work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or relationship challenges.