Never again wonder what to do in a couples session

Train with pioneers of Couples Therapy and discover how the Developmental Model can advance your work

Our world-class couples therapy training is so effective that we’ll let you try it out risk-free for 30 days to prove that it will work for you.

Featured In:

BONUS #1

13 months of training for the price of 12. Get 1 additional month free when you join now. ($147 value)

BONUS #2

Tell Me No Lies book sent to your door.

Almost all therapists struggle with clients who lie. I’ve included this book as a bonus specifically because chapter 3 will help so many clients when you’re confronting and explaining the common pattern of lies and lie inviting behavior. The book will give you an in-depth understanding of how to confront lies and partners who deny their role in inviting lies. This can help whether you’re working with couples online or in your office.

Pay for the year up front and get an extra savings of $265.

You won’t find world-class training at this price anywhere.

30 day risk-free trial.

If you try it out and decide it’s not for you, you won’t pay a single dollar.

See for yourself how the Developmental Model can help you diagnose couples’ issues...including what they’re not telling you...and tailor your interventions to exactly what’s needed in the moment.

Wouldn’t it be nice to pick up the phone and join a case consultation that tells you exactly what to look for in situations where you feel stuck?

Imagine having a library of written, audio, and video lessons that address exactly what to say and do with tricky couples.

How would your practice change if you felt confident taking the lead in couples sessions, slowing things down, and getting your couples focused on their goals and motivation to do the work?
It took me years of hard work, research, and thousands of clinical hours, but I created a breakthrough model that can help you identify what stage of relationship the couple is in, look underneath to see exactly what’s wrong, and then give them the kind of targeted intervention that they actually need – not the one they say they want.

Learn what to do, when to do it, and why you're doing it so you stop flying by the seat of your pants and truly become the most confident therapist you know...

I’ve taken the absolute best and most effectives strategies and over 30 years of clinical experience and developed a breakthrough training program that removes the guesswork from Couples Therapy. The Developmental Model integrates the latest findings in neuroscience, attachment theory, and differentiation theory into one model you can learn at home, in the office, or even on the go.
Inside the Private Members’ Only area, you’ll find 24 in-depth written lessons along with hundreds of hours of case consultations, client handouts, and more.

Here’s What You’re Going to Get:

Live Clinical Sessions

Written Lessons

Exclusive Video Demonstrations

Members’ Case Consultations

36 CE Hours

Guest Speaker Calls

Client Handouts

Ongoing Discussion

Members Directory

Supportive Community

Be Trained by One of the Masters of Couples Therapy

More about Dr. Ellyn Bader

Dr. Ellyn Bader is Co-Founder & Director of The Couples Institute and creator of The Developmental Model of Couples Therapy with her husband, Dr. Peter Pearson. Dr. Bader is widely recognized as an expert in couples therapy training. She has trained therapists throughout the United States as well as in Europe, Russia, Asia, South America, and Australia.

Ellyn has authored two books. The first one, In Quest of the Mythical Mate, was awarded the Clark Vincent Award by the California Association of Marriage & Family Therapists for its outstanding contribution to the field of marital therapy and is now in its 18th printing. She has been featured on over 50 radio and television programs including The Today Show and CBS Early Morning News, and she has been quoted in many publications including The New York Times, The Oprah Magazine, and Cosmopolitan.

Since 2006, Ellyn has led innovative couples therapy training programs online. Professionals from around the world connect with her through internet, conference calls, and blog discussions to study couples therapy.

You have 2 payment options today:

12 Monthly Payments

You could join now for the low monthly cost of $147. That’s significantly less than you’ll receive from one client per month.

One-time Pay in Full Payment

Invest for the full year at $1,499 and get an additional savings of $265. You won’t find world-class training at that price ANYWHERE.

Remember that this training is a tax deductible expense in many countries.

“I choked over the price when I first considered taking the Couples Therapy training course and now I consider it invaluable. This has been the best investment in growth that I have ever made. As a result of your mentoring I see my clients through different eyes and the joy of learning is tangible on my part and on theirs.”

Janet Congo, MFT, Coto de Caza, CA

Common Questions About Our Training

1. What about CE Credits?

Most healthcare professionals can earn 36 hours of Continuing Education credit by completing this course. Please read the course objectives, accreditation, and other information before registering.

2. Will this approach support how I work with my clients?

Yes! The integration of attachment theory, differentiation theory, and neuroscience has proven to be compatible with therapists I have trained throughout the United States, Europe, Asia, Australia, and South America. Our training receives consistent and enthusiastic feedback that it enhances and supports other approaches of working with couples.

3. I don’t have a lot of experience with couples. Will this training be too advanced?

Likely not. Over the years, the therapists who have gone through my training typically include novices through seasoned therapists. The feedback we get is that therapists on all levels appreciate the understandable ways our strategies and interventions can be immediately applied to their own practice.


If you work mainly with individuals, you will learn a lot that will influence how you approach your individual clients who are depressed, angry, or stuck due to their relationship problems. There is a special training section to show you how to apply the Developmental Model to individual clients and their relationship issues.

4. I have quite a bit of experience with couples. Will this just be a repeat of what I already know?

Not unless you have done extensive training with me in the Developmental Model already. The consistent feedback I get, even from therapists who have been in long-term practice, is how valuable these concepts are along with the opportunity to get feedback as you integrate them with your actual clients.

5. Who is right for this training?

The training can benefit a wide variety of professionals who work with individuals in relationships or with couples. Past participants have included Psychologists, Clinical Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists, Marriage Counselors, Clergy, Mental Health Counselors, Relationship Coaches, and more.

6. I’m not that tech-savvy. Is the online part of the training program difficult to use?

Most therapists – myself included – feel some anxiety about using technology. I’ve worked hard to be sure that our materials are very user-friendly. And our office staff is patient with beginners. So don’t let it scare you; jump right in!

7. How can I get my individual questions addressed?

You can ask questions throughout the training program. I stay on the monthly phone calls to answer all the questions you have, and my team also monitors the questions asked on the blog around the clock.

8. What makes this training different from taking a conventional online CE course?

With many online courses there is no interaction with the instructor. You can’t ask questions about a specific case you’re working with. You can’t get elaborations on especially relevant interventions. There is no way to ask, “Now what?”


Our training is different. We look forward to talking with you and answering your questions about clients you’re working with and interventions that we’ve seen successful. Therapists who have gone through our program also share they enjoy the support they receive from peers in our online community.

9. What makes this different from going to a workshop at a conference?

At a workshop or conference, you generally will not get your specific questions answered completely. It isn’t the environment where you can continue to ask deeper and deeper questions until they are answered. You can’t, generally, have conversations with the presenter as they have too much material to cover and too many people who want their attention. You cannot even call the instructor after the workshop and say, “Wow, what you taught was really great, now how can I apply the interventions to my particular case?” A workshop is not designed to be comprehensive.

 

However, our program is designed to be comprehensive. This is what makes us so different. Our training includes all of this and much more!

10. Why does this training extend over the course of a year?

In our experience, you will need this time to implement, experiment, and learn how to apply the interventions and strategies with confidence.

 

As I mentioned before, skillful couples therapy is not mastered in the occasional workshop or reading good books and articles. This prolonged format gives you the big picture and then time to apply specific strategies to specific situations. As your confidence grows, you will need different feedback. A longer training program allows you to get support through your evolution. Most participants spend about 4 hours each month to read and digest the material and calls.

 

The truth is you need two things to be successful – not just with couples, but also in almost any area of your life. The first is knowledge of how to achieve the success. The second is the dedication to acquire and apply that knowledge.

11. What if several of us at an agency want to take the training?

Agency discounts are available for 3 or more people. Please call 1-877-327-5915 or contact us for more information.

You no longer have to feel like your sessions are getting out of control, or feel like you can’t break through arguments. Today, you can learn structure, direction, tools, and insight to feel courageous and confident as a couples therapist.

Don’t wait to join. Registration closes at 11:59pm Pacific on September 26. If you miss this opportunity, you won’t be able to…

Check Out What Other Therapists Are Saying...

“I'm making progress with my toughest couple. We're now laughing together when I call them on their contributions. They leave with ‘challenges’ of things to change and with big smiles. I feel a bunch more confident. I never would have been able to get this couple on the right path before I started learning here. YIPEE!”

Ann Veilleux, MSW, LCSW, Madison, WI

“The model has enhanced my practice and given me the confidence and structure I needed to work with couples. I love the developmental model and the attachment frame. Because of this training, couples are who I like working with best – even the very challenging ones. I also specialize in co-parenting therapy with divorced couples, mediation, and other forensic work. This model is so valuable in working with this population also. Thank you for this incredible program!”

Shannon Seeley, LCSW, Soquel, CA

“Since starting this course the one thing that has resonated in my clinical work is feeling that I have structure, and this I believe relates to the couple clarifying their goals for working with me. I'm excited to help couples put into words their desire for a better life together and for ongoing growth. Thank you.”

Sharon James, Counsellor and Relationship Therapist, Maroubra, NSW

“This course has blown me away! It is so rich and generous and has definitely improved my thinking and practice with both individuals and couples. It has also helped me in my own marriage. The differentiation piece has been invaluable in my work with parents with teens and in my own parenting of my teenager.”

Vickie Vann, LCSW, San Francisco, CA

“The training has given me both a theory and specific tools to guide a couple through conflict, have both partners take accountability for their behavior and role, and not get sucked into the couple conflict myself. I started the training program six months ago, and already notice a difference in my ability to lead and effectively confront negative couple interactions. Ellyn provides numerous options for learning the content – reading, supervision, online conversations, listening to past supervision sessions and is deeply invested in improving the quality of the field of couples therapy.”

Jeremiah Gibson, LMFT, Quincy, MA

“I was frustrated to see how attachment and differentiation models were often pitted against each other. Then I found this, and I knew I wanted to commit to being trained in The Developmental Model. I feel refueled as I continue to engage in the lessons, the blogs, the calls and my peer group.”

Meg Luce, LMFT, Grass Valley, CA

“I feel I now have a compass. I know where I want to go and feel more prepared to face the obstacles that lay ahead whatever they may be. The Developmental Model is great, and Ellyn is a great mentor. Thanks for sharing all your knowledge and expertise.”

Jules Comeault, MA, Gatineau, QC

“Working with couples can be anxiety provoking. You never know what you are going to be confronted with. I can honestly say that I now feel confident and grounded in knowing that I have many options on how to manage a couples session. I feel a sense of empowerment that I’ve never felt before.”

Elany Mueller, LMFT, Pasadena, CA

What You Receive In The Developmental Model Training Program

Value Per Item

Total Value

12 Live Training Sessions with Dr. Ellyn Bader & 8 Special Training Sessions

$500

$6000

8 Live Bonus Training Calls with Guest Experts

$350

$2800

8 Videos of Real Client Sessions by Dr. Ellyn Bader and Dr. Peter Pearson

$75

$600

100 Plus Archived Training Calls with Dr. Ellyn Bader

$70

$7000

82 Archived Bonus Calls with Guest Experts like Dan Siegel, Esther Perel and others!

$60

$4920

30 Client Handouts to Support Your In-Session Work

$30

$900

Being part of a Supportive Therapist Community

-

Priceless!

Investing in your Professional and Personal Growth

-

Even More Priceless!

Value of the Program

-

is over $26,000

Total cost of The Developmental Model Training Program with Dr. Ellyn Bader

-

$147/month ($1,764) OR one payment of $1,499 (SAVE $265)

Iron Clad Guarantee:

We know that the Developmental Model works. What we don’t know is whether you’ll put the program to work for you. That’s why we don’t think you should have to pay for it until you’ve tried, tested, and proven to yourself that it can work for you.

If you participate in or watch at least one special training session and read at least one lesson, and you believe this program is not right for you, you will receive a complete refund if you notify us within thirty (30) days of your registration requesting a refund under this guarantee.
You can accomplish all this in your first 30 days, or I will refund your payment:
If this program isn’t working for you, we wouldn’t dream of keeping your money. Just send us a quick email and we will refund every penny.

But hurry! We are closing soon and these bonuses will expire.

12 Monthly Payments

You could join now for the low monthly cost of $147. That’s significantly less than you’ll receive from one client per month.

One-time Pay in Full Payment

Invest for the full year for $1,499 and get an additional savings of $265. You won’t find world-class training at that price ANYWHERE.

Developmental Model Trainees in 60 Countries Worldwide

My only regret is that I had not signed on sooner. I look back on a few couples I have seen over the years and wonder how different the outcome might have been if I'd known then what I know now.”

Helene Beddingfield, LMFT, Fair Oaks, CA

“Before I took Ellyn's course I had some financial reservations. But I'm so glad I took the leap of faith. Couples stay with me longer. Because of my confidence and what I've learned, I’m busier than ever with couples. It has more than paid for the course in the long run.

Lori Collins, MFT, Redwood City, CA

“This training was well worth the time, energy and expense. Every lesson opened up my clinical insights and skills. I have been in practice nearly 40 years and still devoured the materials like a young and eager college student.

Frankly, I consider Ellyn to be a genius and at the top of her game. Her lessons are precise and masterful and spot on. Her mastery of the craft is breathtaking. She is wise and exact and her talent cannot be underestimated. EVERYONE should jump to study under her. She is one in a million.
The handouts are very useful and my couples were appreciative for them because they afforded a concrete accountability that they could lean on between sessions. Thank you everyone for your cases, your openness and camaraderie. Couples work can be a bitch, frankly, but since having this training I am equipped and of value. I have a waitlist out the door and I earn more doing couples than I do with individuals. This training has paid for itself in spades.”

Madge Flynn, LCSW, PhD, Fayetteville, NY

“My experience with the program has been excellent. I have a very busy schedule and the program is always available to me when I am ready. I have acquired new skills and insight into couples therapy. I certainly notice the difference!!!”

Maria Hernandez Cuevas, MFT, Miami, FL

“I’ve been in practice for over 20 years. Dr. Ellyn Bader has been a part of my work for nearly the entire time. Her training program was like a booster shot for my work with couples. It has only continued to improve since then. Ellyn’s desire for consistent improvement and refinement is what makes this program so invaluable. Ellyn’s wealth of experience, knowledge, incisiveness, and compassion combine to help anyone build a strong foundation upon which to grow and expand both professionally and personally.

Paul McCandless, MFT, Fullerton, CA

“…I appreciate [Ellyn’s] clinical brilliance … it comes with such warmth and vulnerability. I believe that a big part of my success in private practice, and my deep satisfaction with my work has been a result of my training with Ellyn.”

Michael Klein, Ph.D., San Francisco, CA

Stop wondering what to do or say when a client has you feeling stuck. Get the answers right now.

Live Clinical Training Sessions
Monthly live clinical training sessions show you exactly how the Developmental Model can work with your actual cases, including theory and interventions. Go more in depth about passivity, narcissism, trauma, the Initiator-Inquirer, attachment and the Developmental Model, diagnosing stages and choosing interventions, getting off to a strong start, and much more.
Written Lessons
You’ll get 24 written lessons, one delivered every other week, because I’ve found that gives you the right amount of time to process what you’ve learned, try things out in sessions, and keep up with the material. These lessons include Diagnosing Couples Stages, Fostering Empathy, Affairs and Infidelity, and more! Each downloadable lesson comes with an online interactive discussion section so you can get answers to your specific questions in 24 to 48 hours.
Exclusive Video Demonstratio
Exclusive Video Demonstrations (including 2-chair Gestalt work, managing infidelity, confronting jealousy, and more) show you exactly how to implement what you’re learning.
Members’ Case Consultations
You’ll have a special area to post your own cases for ongoing consultation. You’ll get feedback from from me and your colleagues on specific challenging topics. These are just a few examples of past cases the group has worked on together: The No-Orgasm Secret, Narcissist Having an Affair, Are We Best to Separate?
36 CE hours
For most licenses in the United States, this course fulfills the CE requirements for a whole licensing period. Click here to read course objectives and information before registering. Some international bodies also recognize these credits.
Access to guest experts
Access to guest experts like Janis Spring, Esther Perel, Stan Tatkin, and Dan Siegel. These bonus calls make this more like several courses for the price of one.
Client Handouts
Client Handouts – including Setting Limits on Conflict, Couples Questionnaire for diagnosing each partner’s stage of development, Self-Assessment After a Fight, Fostering Empathy, and many more reinforce what you’re learning and help your couples progress faster.
A Private, Therapists' Only Discussion Area
In the Private, Therapists' Only Discussion Area you can post cases and get feedback and ideas from peers. Past conversations include handling sexual desire discrepancy, how to integrate individual sessions into your couples work, what to say when you find out a partner has been lying to you, and more.
Members Directory
List yourself and your practice in our Members Directory. You can use the directory to find therapists around the world to refer to — as well as therapists who can refer to you. Your network of professionals and possible future friends just expanded!
A Supportive Community of Therapists
This Supportive Community of Therapists around the world is open 24/7 for you to get suggestions that could completely change the way you work with a tricky couple. And best of all, you will be supported and encouraged if there are days when you feel like giving up and quitting couples work.
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