Bri McCarroll–Lead Therapist and Relationship Coach
I describe myself as an authentic, compassionate yet direct person.
My Education and Training
I have had a private practice in Western Massachusetts for over 20 years and specialize in helping couples and individuals navigate the challenges of relationships. My MSW is from Smith College with specialized training from Yale Child Study Center. I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, in addition to training in Imago and the Gottman Method for couples. My background in Positive Psychology and mindfulness are interwoven into my Retreats and Workshops as well.
I lead at least two “Hold Me Tight Workshops®” and/or Retreats monthly. Their popularity has led to couples come from as far as Canada and California to attend these with me. Using the Hold Me Tight® framework, I have designed my own protocol and materials. I am consistently successful with couples of various ages, orientations, and backgrounds.
How I am Different
I genuinely love and am skilled at what I do. This comes through in my being fully-present, my compassion for your pain, my playfulness of spirit, my creation of a nurturing space, and my positive energy.
My work as a couples and marriage therapist and relationship coach is not just a job. Couples seek me out when they are in crisis and it’s my responsibility to give my very best with every couple. I get an incredible joy in seeing couples connect and heal.
I truly care.
Laurie McKee–Relationship Coach
I describe myself as intuitive, kind, and pragmatic.
My Education and Training
Honestly, I had never planned to work so intensely with people. I attended Mount Holyoke and received a degree in biology. From there, I spent time in Kenya, working with giraffes and zebras on a wildlife management ranch. As much as that was my passion, I ended up with a civil service job upon my return to the States. In that capacity, I realized I have a natural ability to listen and help others.
Under Bri’s advice, I attended trainings and learned couples therapy models of Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman, in addition to others. Although I have attended these trainings, I function as a relationship coach; focusing on the skills rather than the internal psyche of couples. I have assisted in all the Workshops New England Hold Me Tight has held but I do not lead Private Retreats with couples.
How I am Different
Due to my science background, I look at things a bit pragmatically. This view helps me engage with couples in very a concrete, clear, yet compassionate manner.
I get a thrill from seeing the changes that happen in couples during our Hold Me Tight Workshops®.
Gabriel Dixon–Therapist & Individual Coach for Relationships
I describe myself as empathetic, compassionate, and insightful.
My Education and Training
Much of my life, I ran an IT business, worked in the record business and have been a musician. Although I still play the drums on occasion, my career path changed and I have been helping individuals with their relationship challenges for the last 14 years. I coach individuals internationally and bring specialized experience in the areas of compulsive sexual behaviors, love addiction, and co-dependence.
As a therapist and relationship coach, I have successfully helped individuals with behaviors that may negatively impact their relationships and who experience shame as a result. I help individuals reduce or stop these behaviors, address unhelpful emotions, and rebuild trust in their relationship.
How I am Different
I work in a way that is deeply empathetic and compassionate. I help you understand the consequences of your past and hold you accountable whilst also developing your insight and self-compassion.
This is not work for me. I love holding hope for my clients when they are struggling, helping them understand themselves better, and sharing in their joy from their growth, freedom, and successes. Helping individuals become more skilled in their romantic relationships is what I was meant to do.
I am all in!
The Location
You may choose to have your couples therapy intensive or couples retreat at the dedicated clinical space in the Bri McCarroll’s beautiful New England colonial home, located in Springfield, Massachusetts (see photo at the bottom of page). The relaxing space and beauty of the grounds set you at ease and invite you to share with one another in a natural and authentic manner.
Additional options are available. We may meet at a location of your choosing or online. As you explore the couples therapy intensive you want to attend, you can consider what location is best for you.
We have helped so many couples in Massachusetts and throughout New England with our Private Marriage Retreats and “Hold Me Tight Workshops®”.
We know we can make things better.
“Hold Me Tight®” is a registered trademark to Sue Johnson
