Marathon Couples Therapy and Mini Marathon Therapy: Flexible Gottman Therapy Options for Couples
- David Nowland
- Jul 15
- 3 min read
Many couples seek relationship counselling when they feel disconnected, experience ongoing relationship challenges, or want support to improve their relationship.
While weekly couples therapy works well for many couples, I understand that every relationship is different. Busy schedules, work commitments, distance, or a preference for a more concentrated approach may mean that traditional weekly sessions are not always the best fit.
I offer flexible Gottman Method Couples Therapy options, including weekly sessions, Mini Marathon Therapy, and Marathon Therapy, to suit different relationship needs and preferences.
What is Marathon Couples Therapy?
Marathon Couples Therapy is an intensive form of couples counselling where therapy takes place in longer, dedicated sessions rather than only through shorter weekly appointments.
The extended format provides couples with more time and space to explore relationship concerns, understand each other’s perspectives, practise communication strategies, and work through important topics with the guidance of a trained therapist.
For some couples, an intensive therapy format may provide a structured opportunity to focus on their relationship within a shorter timeframe.
Weekly Couples Therapy, Mini Marathon, or Marathon Therapy?
There is no single therapy format that suits every couple. The most appropriate approach depends on your relationship needs, how much emotional intensity you can manage, availability, and goals.
Weekly Couples Therapy
Weekly couples therapy provides ongoing support and allows couples to gradually explore relationship concerns over time. This is usually 2 hours per week, although some couples opt for 2 X two-hours sessions per week.
This format may suit couples who prefer a steady pace, with opportunities between sessions to reflect on discussions and practise new skills.
Mini Marathon Couples Therapy
A Mini Marathon provides a more intensive approach while remaining shorter than a full Marathon Therapy program. The mini marathon is usually a four-hour session per week.
This option may suit couples who want more dedicated therapy time than a standard weekly appointment but are unable to commit to multiple full days of therapy.
The longer session format allows couples additional time to explore important concerns, practise communication strategies, and focus on relationship patterns within a concentrated timeframe.
Marathon Couples Therapy
My Marathon Therapy option provides a more immersive couples therapy experience with extended sessions scheduled over a dedicated period. The marathon is usually 7 hours or a full day and can be two consecutive days.
My approach is tailored to each couple. Depending on your needs, availability, and goals, this may involve relationship assessment sessions followed by intensive therapy days, or assessment and therapy sessions scheduled across several days.
Who May Benefit from an Intensive Couples Therapy Format?
Mini Marathon and Marathon Therapy may be suitable for couples who:
Have busy schedules and find weekly appointments difficult
Prefer a concentrated therapy format
Are travelling from outside the Gold Coast or interstate
Want dedicated time to focus on relationship concerns
Have complex needs and challenges that may require more time to address in depth
Prefer a structured block of therapy rather than spreading sessions over a longer period
A Flexible Approach Designed Around Your Relationship
Every relationship is unique, and couples come to therapy with different experiences, challenges, and goals.
Whether you choose weekly couples therapy, Mini Marathon Therapy, or Marathon Therapy, my aim is to provide a structured approach that fits your needs while supporting you to explore relationship patterns, improve communication, and work towards your relationship goals.
If you are unsure which format may be the best fit for your relationship, please contact David Nowland Psychologist to discuss your options.
