By Madonna Hirning, Psychologist and Certified Gottman Therapist Understanding the Pursuer Distancer Pattern There is a common dynamic that can emerge in relationships that is known as the pursuer distancer pattern. There may be one partner who is more often the one to raise issues with a desire to talk about their feelings and work through the issue together. On the other hand their partner may prefer to avoid conflict wherever possible and may see expression of emotions, the raising of...

Running a business with your partner is both exciting and challenging. Couples who run a business together often discover that working side by side strengthens their bond—but it can also create stress and put their relationship under pressure if not handled well. Hi! I’m Madonna, as a registered psychologist and Certified Gottman Couples Therapist who works with couples on the Sunshine Coast, I work with many couples who share both a business and a home. Over time, I’ve seen the patterns...

The Art and Science of Love Workshop - 7 & 8 June 2025. At the Sunshine Coast Couples Clinic, we believe every relationship has the...