Add Row
Add Element
therapy sofa
update
Salt River Therapy
salt river therapy logo
update
Add Element
  • Home
  • Subscribe
  • Contact Us
  • All Posts
  • Mental Health
  • Self Care
  • Therapy
  • LGBTQ
  • Recovery
  • BIPOC
  • Family
  • Spirituality
  • Trauma
  • Relationships
3 Minutes Read

3 Tips On How To Become A Better Listener

Communication can be a big source of conflict in partnerships, family relationships, and friendships. Becoming a better communicator isn’t only about working on expressing yourself — it’s also about learning how to really hear what the other person has to say.


When my clients ask about how to improve their listening skills, these are the top three areas we work on that can lead to significant change.


1. Focus

It seems simple, but it’s worth stating — focus on the conversation at hand. Minimize any distractions in the environment like loud music or text notifications. Don’t multitask; you can’t truly give someone your undivided attention if you’re folding laundry at the same time. 


Avoid planning what you’re going to say next while listening to the other person speak; you might miss additional information or nuances to their thoughts by getting caught up in how you’re going to respond. Make sure you’re really listening to what they’re saying in the here and now; don’t project connections to other past conversations or issues that you’ve had that will distract you from your current discussion.


2. Check for understanding

If you’re not sure you understand what the other person is trying to share with you, get more clarity instead of making incorrect assumptions. It might feel awkward to ask questions like “Can you tell me more about that? I’m not sure I get it” or “I still don’t understand what you mean by that, would you mind walking me through it again?”, but it could save a lot of time and frustration in the long run.


Echoing back the ideas and emotions that have been shared with you is another way to check that you’re understanding things correctly. You can do this by repeating back what the other person said to you (eg: if your partner says “I felt hurt when you stayed out so late last night without texting me”, literally saying “you felt hurt when I stayed out so late last night without texting you”), or summarizing the meaning of what they’re communicating (eg: “it really bothered you that I stayed out later than I expected and didn’t check in with you).


Remember, checking for understanding doesn’t mean you have to wholeheartedly agree with what the other person has to say. It’s simply about making sure you know what they have to say, so that you’re both on the same page as the conversation moves forward.


3. Be attuned to non-verbal communication

As you are listening, pay attention to non-verbal cues such as posture and facial expressions that may give you added context to what the other person is communicating. Be aware as well of your own non-verbal cues, and how they may encourage or discourage open dialogue. Actions like eye contact and nodding can show that you are interested and engaged in the conversation you’re having, whereas slouching or a sulking facial expression can suggest that you don’t want to hear what the other person has to say.


Enhance your skills

Developing better listening skills isn’t always easy, especially if you have little practice with open and honest communication, you experience a neurodevelopmental condition like ADHD that disrupts attention, or you have a history of trauma that intensifies the experience of emotional exchanges.


Therapy can help you look at whatever is holding you back, and explore solutions that can help you become a better listener. I can tell you more in a free phone consultation — click the button below and we can set one up as soon as possible.


Click To Book A Free Consultation



Family Relationships

15 Comments

Write A Comment

*
*
Related Posts All Posts
11.07.2025

Finding the Right Relationship Therapist in Brooklyn: What to Know

Feeling heard and supported is the foundation for strong relationships. The right relationship therapist in Brooklyn can help you reconnect, communicate, and grow—no matter where you are on your journey. – Brooklyn Therapy ExpertChoosing a relationship therapist in Brooklyn can feel daunting, especially when your connection feels distant or misunderstood. Whether you’re facing communication breakdowns or simply want to deepen your bond, the right therapist transforms challenges into opportunities for growth. Brooklyn’s diverse and vibrant community is home to therapists who offer unique support for couples and individuals alike, including the convenience of both in-person and telehealth sessions across the entire New York State.In this guide, you’ll discover not only the nuts and bolts of finding the right relationship therapist in Brooklyn but also practical insights on self-assessment before beginning couples counseling. We’ll discuss the wide range of therapy approaches — like the Gottman Method and eclectic counseling for tailored support — as well as the convenience of combining in-person and telehealth modalities. Most importantly, you’ll learn the specific qualities — such as professional credentials, cultural sensitivity, and commitment to evidence-based techniques — that set top therapists apart in Brooklyn’s diverse landscape. Let’s explore how a couples therapist can help you nurture the love, understanding, and resilience you seek.Why Choose a Relationship Therapist in Brooklyn for Couples & Individual TherapyDeciding to see a couples therapist offers is a step toward prioritizing your mental health and the health of your relationship. Modern life in Brooklyn is fast-paced, filled with unique pressures that can strain even the most solid connections. From intertwining careers to bustling families and changing neighborhood dynamics in areas like North Brooklyn, Downtown Brooklyn, and Park Slope, the need for both couples therapy and individual therapy is more common than ever.A skilled relationship therapist brings evidence-based methods to help partners break destructive patterns, rebuild trust, and establish healthier communication. Whether you prefer individual sessions to address core issues or engaging in couples counseling to rekindle the spark, Brooklyn’s therapists are prepared to meet you where you are. Salt River Therapy is known for embracing flexibility, offering in-person therapy for those who crave face-to-face connection, and telehealth sessions for individuals or couples seeking convenience — no matter if you’re in Williamsburg, Park Slope, or anywhere in NY State.How Relationship Therapists in Brooklyn Work: Eclectic and Evidence-Based Counseling ApproachesEclectic Counseling Brooklyn: Blending Modalities for Tailored SupportOne of Brooklyn’s greatest strengths is its diversity, which is reflected in both the city’s population and its therapists’ approaches. Eclectic counseling in Brooklyn combines multiple evidence-based modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and the Gottman Method, to create a personalized experience for each client or couple. This flexibility allows therapists to address common mental health issues specific to each relationship, such as intimacy blocks, communication breakdowns, or coping with transitions.In practice, this means a session might integrate behavioral exercises from cognitive behavioral therapy with emotionally focused interventions, or support a couple developing “love maps” (a Gottman concept) while also drawing on mindfulness to manage stress. The goal of eclectic counseling is to adapt and evolve based on what works best for you, whether you’re seeking solution-focused individual therapy or deep couples counseling.The Role of Couples TherapyFor couples feeling stuck, misunderstood, or disconnected, couples therapy in Brooklyn can be a game-changer. Your therapist will guide you to identify core issues in your relationship, such as recurring arguments, emotional distance, or difficulty navigating life changes like parenthood or relocation. Through guided conversation and structured activities, couples learn to express needs, listen deeply, and resolve conflicts in ways that foster trust and closeness.These therapy sessions aren’t just about addressing problems; they’re about rekindling the spark that brought you together. Many Brooklyn couples therapists use tools like the Gottman Method to help partners build strong “love maps,” increase intimacy, and set goals for their future. Whether you’re in a long-term romantic relationship, blended family, or new partnership, relationship therapy provides a safe, supportive space to nurture growth and healing on your terms.Individual Therapy Versus Couples Counseling: Which Is Right for You?Not every relationship challenge is best resolved in pairs. Sometimes, the journey starts with individual therapy, which provides a space to reflect, heal from past hurts, and strengthen your emotional toolkit. Individual sessions help you understand patterns, manage anxiety or depression, and build resilience, which you can then bring back into your relationship with new insights.On the other hand, if the main concern is recurring conflict or distance within the relationship itself, couples counseling is often the best setting for collaborative work. Therapists frequently help clients decide which path — individual or couples therapy — will support their goals most effectively. In fact, some clients start with individual therapy and progress to couples sessions, or vice versa. Your therapist will help you determine the sequence and combination that fits your unique needs.Brooklyn and Beyond: In-Person and Telehealth Relationship Therapy OptionsAccessibility is key when searching for a relationship therapist in Brooklyn clients recommend. Many practices are conveniently located in downtown Brooklyn’s thriving neighborhoods, making it easy to schedule in-person appointments for those who appreciate face-to-face connection. However, for busy professionals, parents, or anyone seeking maximum flexibility, Salt River Therapy now offers a robust range of telehealth options as well.Telehealth sessions allow you to connect with your therapist from the comfort of your home, whether you’re in Park Slope, downtown Brooklyn, or elsewhere in NY State. This hybrid model — combining in-person and online sessions — empowers you to tailor your therapy journey to your schedule, lifestyle, or safety preferences. No matter your chosen format, Salt Rivery Therapy's team are adept at fostering connection, confidentiality, and growth across all modalities.Comparing Relationship Therapist Providers: What To Look ForAs you compare providers, pay close attention to their approach, specialties, and availability. Does the practice offer both couples therapy and individual therapy? Are they trained in evidence-based modalities like CBT, EMDR, or eclectic counseling models? Can they accommodate both in-person and telehealth appointments? These details help you find a therapist who not only fits your logistics but is also attuned to your specific needs as a Brooklyn resident.Consider their track record with a wide range of issues, including common mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, or stress, and their ability to work with diverse relationship types, including romantic relationships, blended families, and LGBTQ+ couples. Transparent policies regarding confidentiality, insurance, and scheduling are also marks of a provider you can trust.Signs You May Benefit from Couples Therapy or Individual Counseling in BrooklynIf you find yourself locked in recurring arguments or silent stand-offs, it may be time to reach out to a couples therapist. Other red flags include feeling emotionally distant from your partner, moving through major life transitions like parenthood or relocation, or simply wanting to enhance your emotional intimacy. These signs often signal deeper core issues — sometimes tied to personal mental health struggles or external stressors — that can benefit from focused work with a couples therapist.Even without acute problems, therapy benefits those who want to sharpen their communication skills, deepen trust, and invest proactively in their partnership or personal growth. Therapists in Brooklyn are deeply familiar with the city’s pressures and can help you navigate them, whether your needs are rooted in relationship dynamics or individual mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or stress.How Counseling Brooklyn Services Support Your Mental Health GoalsEvery journey with a couples therapist begins with a personalized assessment. This is your chance to clarify your goals, name your struggles, and set a direction together. Your therapist will then guide you through the right blend of research-backed practices, from cognitive behavioral therapy techniques in individual sessions to collaborative exercises in couples therapy, designed to rekindle the spark and equip you for ongoing growth.Over time, this process boosts your collective resilience, whether that means bouncing back from setbacks, fostering emotional intelligence, or simply rekindling laughter and affection at home. Couples counseling services in Brooklyn are not a one-size-fits-all solution; instead, they’re as dynamic as the borough itself, providing structured support that evolves along with you and your relationships.People Also Ask: Relationship Therapists BrooklynWhat should I look for in a relationship therapist in Brooklyn?When searching for a relationship therapist in Brooklyn, prioritize relevant experience and credentials to ensure you are working with a licensed therapist. Consider their approach, such as eclectic counseling, couples therapy techniques, or specialized experience with family systems. Accessibility is key, so look for providers with flexible availability for both in-person and telehealth sessions. Trust-building and clear, empathetic communication are essential qualities; you want someone you and your partner both feel safe confiding in as you work through sensitive issues together.Is couples counseling in Brooklyn effective for all types of couples?Yes, most couples experience meaningful improvement when both partners are engaged and committed to the process. Brooklyn-based therapists are trained to adapt their methods to fit a wide variety of relationship backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ partnerships, blended families, and new or long-term romantic relationships. Therapy models are customized for your unique needs, making couples counseling a powerful tool for rekindling connection, no matter your story.Are online or telehealth therapy services available for Brooklyn clients?Absolutely. Many relationship therapist practices in Brooklyn — including Salt River Therapy — now offer telehealth appointments to clients anywhere in Brooklyn, NYC, or across NY State. Online therapy offers the same quality of care as in-person sessions, but with greater flexibility and convenience. You can choose video or phone formats, and many therapists provide flexible online scheduling, so you can access help wherever you are.What should I look for in a relationship therapist in Brooklyn?When choosing a relationship therapist in Brooklyn, it’s important to look for someone with the right experience and credentials to address your specific concerns. Their therapeutic approach should align with your needs, whether that’s eclectic counseling, traditional couples therapy, or another method. Flexibility is also valuable, so consider whether they offer both in-person and telehealth sessions to fit your schedule. Most importantly, you should feel comfortable with their communication style, since trust and clear dialogue are essential to making progress together.Is couples counseling in Brooklyn effective for all types of couples?Couples counseling can be effective for a wide variety of relationships, especially when both partners are committed to the process. Couples therapists in Brooklyn typically adapt their methods to suit different backgrounds, challenges, and goals, making counseling accessible to many types of couples. Specialized support is also available for LGBTQ+ partners, blended families, and others who may face unique dynamics. With customized strategies and active participation, most couples see real improvements in understanding, communication, and connection.Are online or telehealth therapy services available for Brooklyn clients?Yes, telehealth appointments are available for residents anywhere in Brooklyn, NYC, or NY State. Many relationship therapist Brooklyn providers offer flexible online scheduling to optimize for convenience. Salt River Therapy encourages NY residents to opt for the flexibility and convenience of telehealth sessions.Top Qualities of a Trusted Relationship Therapist Brooklyn Residents RecommendActive, empathetic listeningProfessional credentials and licensingClient-centered, evidence-based techniquesCultural sensitivity and inclusivityAvailability of both in-person and virtual sessionsFAQs on Relationship Therapist Brooklyn ServicesWhat insurance plans are accepted for counseling Brooklyn?Most therapists accept a range of insurance plans, but it’s important to check directly with your provider about specific coverage for couples therapy or individual counseling in Brooklyn.Do therapists serve North Brooklyn and the wider borough?Yes, many practices in North Brooklyn extend services not only to local neighborhoods but also to greater Brooklyn and even NYC via telehealth.How soon can I schedule my first session?Availability varies by provider, but many relationship therapists in Brooklyn offices offer prompt initial consultations, often within a week, especially for telehealth slots.Are sessions confidential and private?Absolutely. Licensed therapists in Brooklyn adhere to strict ethical codes ensuring your sessions, whether in-person or online, are secure and private.How do I know if I should choose couples therapy or individual therapy?If your challenges center around the relationship dynamic, couples counseling is ideal. If you’re seeking personal growth, or managing individual mental health issues impacting your partnership, individual therapy may be best. Or you could consider a combination, with your therapist’s guidance.Take the Next Step with a Relationship Therapist Brooklyn ProviderConsider your goals and therapy preferencesReview Brooklyn counseling options, both in-person and telehealthReach out to start your journey toward healthier, stronger relationshipsWith the right relationship therapist Brooklyn offers, lasting change and renewed connection are within reach.Click to Book a Free Consultation with a Brooklyn Relationship Therapist TodayReady to invest in your relationship or begin your personal growth journey? Click to Book a Free Consultation with a trusted Brooklyn therapist at Salt River Therapy.

10.29.2025

Don’t Make This Mistake with Marriage Therapy in Brooklyn!

Marriage therapy in Brooklyn empowers couples to rebuild trust, improve communication, and grow together. Access expert couples counseling in NYC and across NY State—online or in person.

10.22.2025

Unlock the Power of Relationship Counseling in Brooklyn Today

Rebuild trust, improve communication, and strengthen your bond with expert relationship counseling in Brooklyn. Start your journey toward a happier, healthier partnership today.

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title

Sorry, no results found

You Might Find These Articles Interesting

T
Please Check Your Email
We Will Be Following Up Shortly
*
*
*