Bringing a baby home is a joyful transition, and it is also a big change for a relationship. The Bringing Baby Home workshop is based on Dr. John Gottman's research on how couples can support their relationship through the transition to parenthood.
The workshop is for couples who are expecting a baby or who have a child up to age three. It is led by Dr. Emily Bly in Chappaqua, with an option to join online. New dates have not been set yet.
Gottman Institute research found that about two-thirds of couples (67%) experience a decline in relationship satisfaction after the birth of their first child. The same research suggests that the quality of the relationship between parents plays a significant role in how a family adjusts, including the level of conflict at home and the risk of postpartum depression.
The workshop is designed for couples who would like to:
How to handle conflict productively, so that it does not escalate into damaging patterns.
Core skills for communication and emotional responsiveness.
Defining roles, setting expectations, and working together effectively.
Personal and shared strategies for coping with the fatigue and stress of new parenthood.
Ways to keep your relationship emotionally and physically connected during a demanding time.
Learning to recognize your baby's cues and emotional needs.
Strengthening your support system, prioritizing postpartum health, and recognizing signs of depression and anxiety.
The workshop is psychoeducational and is not a substitute for couples therapy. It is not recommended for couples experiencing severe relationship distress, active addiction, or domestic violence. If that describes your situation, a free consultation can help us talk through other options, such as couples therapy.
If you or your partner are experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression or anxiety, please see our postpartum support page.
The workshop is 16 hours, offered across two weekends. Splitting the curriculum this way allows time to rest and to practice skills between sessions. It has been held on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, in person in Chappaqua with an option to join online. Dates and times may vary for each session.
Two half-day sessions that set up the core skills for friendship, communication, and managing conflict.
Two half-day sessions that build on those skills and focus on parenting as a team, stress, intimacy, and support.
The fee is $450 per couple. You receive a full refund if you cancel at least one week before the event.
No workshop dates are scheduled right now. Contact us to ask about the next workshop.
Dr. Emily Bly is a licensed clinical psychologist and the founder of Psychology Partners Group. She is a Level 3 Gottman Trained clinician with more than a decade of experience working with couples on intimacy and communication. Her approach is warm and grounded in research.
The workshop is often one part of a broader plan. Our clinicians work across specialties, and with your consent your clinician can coordinate with colleagues across the practice.
