Why choose a couples specialist over an individual therapist?

A therapist who specializes in couples has focused training on how couples connect, communicate, and clash. Unlike a general therapist who sometimes works with couples, a specialist is better equipped to spot hidden relationship patterns, use proven techniques to improve your bond, and help you understand how your past experiences affect your relationship today.

What percentage of couples stay together after couples therapy?

The American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists states 90% of couples who complete therapy with a highly trained couples therapist report an increase in their emotional well-being. Approximately two-thirds of participants also report improvements in their general physical well-being. Couples therapy has also shown to be as effective as individual therapy in addressing symptoms of depression in some cases.

How long will we have to attend couples therapy sessions?

At Kodo, couples work in four-month cycles. This structure provides enough time to build momentum, practice new tools, and see measurable change in your relationship. Most couples begin to notice meaningful shifts within the first few sessions, but lasting transformation typically unfolds over the course of a full cycle. At the end of each four-month period, we review your progress together and decide whether to transition out of therapy, extend for another cycle, or shift focus based on your evolving goals.

What if my partner doesn't want to come to couples therapy?

One partner being hesitant is common. Kodo offers Couples Therapy for One for individuals who want to work on their relationship even when their partner is not ready. Discernment Counseling is also available for couples where one partner is unsure about staying.

Do you offer therapy for non-traditional relationships?

Yes. Kodo welcomes couples of all backgrounds, identities, and relationship structures. Who you love is never a question; how you love is what we focus on together.

Do you take insurance for couples therapy?

Kodo does not currently accept insurance due to the limitations it places on the therapy process. Insurance companies often impose restrictions on the types of treatment and the number of sessions covered, which can limit the flexibility needed for effective therapy. Detailed superbills are provided that you can submit to your insurance company for out-of-network reimbursement.

Do you offer remote couples therapy sessions?

Yes. Kodo offers secure and confidential remote therapy sessions for couples and individuals throughout California.

What is the cost of couples counseling in Marin County?

Sessions at Kodo are $225 to $250 for 50 minutes or $330 for 80 minutes depending on clinician. Monthly superbills are available for Marin County clients who wish to use PPO out-of-network benefits.

Do you offer in-person couples intensives in Marin County?

Yes. We offer in-person couples intensives for partners in Mill Valley, San Rafael, and throughout Marin County who want to work more deeply and efficiently than traditional weekly therapy allows.

What is the difference between marriage counseling and Relational Life Therapy (RLT)?

Relational Life Therapy (RLT) is a therapeutic approach that focuses on identifying and changing relational patterns such as power struggles, emotional withdrawal, and reactivity in order to improve connection and accountability.

How long does couples therapy take?

At Kodo, couples work in four-month cycles. Most couples notice meaningful shifts within the first few sessions. At the end of each cycle we review progress together and decide whether to continue, shift focus, or transition out.

What makes Kodo different from other couples therapists in Marin?

Kodo is a couples-only practice. Every clinician specializes exclusively in relationship work, using Relational Life Therapy, EMDR, and Emotionally Focused Therapy. We do not do general therapy with occasional couples sessions — relationships are all we do.

EMDR Therapy & Trauma Recovery in Marin County

Transform your relationship with EMDR therapy

EMDR stands out as the most effective treatment for trauma. Studies show EMDR produces 85% symptom reduction, outperforming CBT (75%) and medication (55%). Unlike medication, which only manages symptoms, EMDR helps reprocess traumatic memories for lasting healing. This evidence-based approach allows individuals to experience significant relief in fewer sessions, making it a powerful tool for trauma recovery and couples therapy.

“Changing the memories that form the way we see ourselves also changes the way we view others. Therefore, our relationships, job performance, and what we are willing to do or are able to resist, all move in a positive direction.”

— Francine Shapiro (founder of EMDR)

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Healing from the Past, Strengthening Your Future

Emotions, memories, and past experiences shape how we show up in relationships. When unresolved trauma or distressing experiences influence how we connect with our partner, it can create patterns of conflict, emotional disconnection, or distress. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a powerful, evidence-based approach designed to help individuals and couples process past wounds, reduce emotional reactivity, and foster healthier, more secure relationships.

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy is a structured, research-backed approach that helps the brain reprocess distressing memories so they lose their emotional intensity. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR does not require extensive discussion of past events; instead, it uses bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements or tapping) to help the brain reprocess painful memories in a more adaptive way.

For couples, EMDR therapy can be particularly effective in addressing:
- Unresolved trauma from past relationships or childhood experiences
- Emotional triggers that lead to recurring conflicts
- Attachment wounds that impact trust and security
- Betrayal, infidelity, or relationship distress

Why is EMDR Therapy Important?

Research has shown that unprocessed trauma can be stored in the nervous system, leading to heightened emotional reactions, avoidance behaviors, and negative relationship patterns. EMDR helps release these stored responses, allowing individuals to feel more present and connected in their relationships.

Multiple studies support the effectiveness of EMDR, including research published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, which found that EMDR significantly reduces symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and distress in fewer sessions than traditional talk therapy. Additionally, studies in the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy highlight the benefits of EMDR in improving emotional regulation, reducing relational conflict, and fostering secure attachment in couples.

How EMDR Can Help Your Relationship

In a relationship, unhealed wounds (whether from childhood, past relationships, or within the partnership itself) can shape emotional reactions and communication patterns. Through EMDR, couples can:

Identify and heal emotional triggers that contribute to conflicts
Reduce reactivity and increase emotional regulation in difficult conversations
Strengthen trust and attachment security by processing past wounds
Develop a deeper sense of emotional safety and connection

Take the Next Step Toward Healing

You don’t have to let past experiences dictate your relationship’s future. EMDR therapy offers a path toward healing, allowing you to engage with your partner from a place of calm, clarity, and connection.

If you’re ready to explore how EMDR therapy can support your relationship, we would love to help. Contact us to learn more or schedule a consultation. For rates, see our fees & policies page.

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Frequently Asked Questions

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy that helps the brain process traumatic memories and reduce their emotional intensity. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping, to help the nervous system safely reprocess difficult experiences and create healthier emotional responses.
EMDR therapy can help individuals and couples who are struggling with trauma, anxiety, emotional triggers, painful memories, relationship wounds, and experiences that continue to affect their present life. It is commonly used for trauma recovery, PTSD symptoms, betrayal trauma, and emotional distress.
EMDR may be helpful if past experiences continue to influence your emotions, relationships, or sense of safety. Many people seek EMDR when they experience recurring triggers, intense emotional reactions, anxiety, shame, or difficulty moving forward after painful events.
Kodo Couples Therapy provides EMDR therapy in Novato, Marin County, serving individuals and couples throughout the Bay Area. Our practice is located at 7250 Redwood Blvd Suite 300, Novato, CA 94945.

No. EMDR does not require you to describe every detail of a traumatic experience. The therapy focuses on helping your brain process the emotional impact of memories in a safe and structured way rather than repeatedly reliving painful events.
The timeline varies depending on the type of trauma, emotional history, and individual goals. Some people notice changes within several sessions, while more complex trauma may require longer-term support. Your therapist will create a pace that feels safe and appropriate for your needs.
Yes. EMDR can be helpful for relationship-related trauma, including betrayal, infidelity, attachment wounds, and experiences that create fear or emotional disconnection. Processing these experiences can help individuals and couples rebuild emotional safety and improve connection.
Traditional talk therapy often focuses on discussing thoughts, feelings, and experiences. EMDR focuses on helping the brain reprocess distressing memories so they become less emotionally overwhelming. Many people find EMDR helpful when they understand their experiences intellectually but still feel strong emotional reactions.