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Welcome To Integrative Couples Therapy
We are dedicated to helping our clients create fulfilling relationships and personal wellbeing. We specialize in relationships and offer a range of services—including couples therapy, individual therapy, family therapy, intensives, and workshops. We see clients virtually or at our office in the beautiful coastal town of Encinitas, California. Founded by Cristina Trette, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, our approach is compassionate, effective, and tailored for those seeking positive change and relationship growth.
Specialties
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Couples Therapy
We specialize in helping couples improve communication, strengthen connection, and revitalize intimacy.
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Sex & Intimacy
We help couples overcome challenges, deepen intimacy, and build a fulfilling and connected sexual relationship.
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Infidelity Recovery
We help couples and individuals heal from infidelity and betrayal while rebuilding a sense of trust, safety and security.
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Family Therapy
We support families to open communication, develop emotional intelligence and cultivate harmony.
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Solo Couples Therapy
We help individuals gain clarity, shift patterns, and strengthen relationships, even if their partner does not attend therapy.
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Premarital Couples Therapy
We help couples prepare for lifelong partnership by cultivating relationship skills and a shared vision for the future.
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Parent & Coparent Therapy
We support parents and coparents through all stages of parenthood, from pregnancy, toddlers, teens and launching adults.
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Individual Therapy
We provide compassionate and evidence-based individual therapy for clients with anxiety, depression and trauma.
Our Therapists
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Cristina Trette
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
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Cara McDowell
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
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Morgan Betterton
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
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Marissa Massimini
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
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Shannon Ehlers
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
What Makes Us Different
We Specialize in Couples and Relationships
Our practice is dedicated to helping couples and individuals create thriving relationships. As specialists, we bring a deep understanding of the unique dynamics, challenges, and opportunities that relationships present. Our expertise allows us to provide highly effective relationship support.
We View Mental Health Through a Relational and Systems Lens
We understand individuals within the context of their relationships and families. Rather than seeing struggles as solely internal or individual, we recognize how relational dynamics, attachment patterns, and systemic influences shape emotions, behaviors, and wellbeing. This perspective allows us to explore how relationships impact mental health and how mental health challenges influence relationships. By addressing these interconnected factors, we help individuals and couples create healthier patterns, deepen emotional security, and foster meaningful change that extends beyond the individual to the entire family.
Our Therapists Are Dedicated to Couples Therapy
Our licensed and associate Marriage and Family Therapists have training beyond the graduate school level and are trained in one of the most well-known and respected models for couples therapy: Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT). This evidence-based approach creates lasting, positive change within relationships. 90% of couples that go through the EFCT process report a more satisfying and fulfilling relationship.
Professionalism and Ethics
Professionalism is at the heart of everything we do. Our team upholds the highest ethical standards, as outlined by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences and the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. We prioritize ongoing professional development and clinical training. This dedication allows us to foster trust, deliver effective therapy, and create a safe space for meaningful growth and connection.
Confidentiality and Privacy
As Marriage and Family Therapists, we are legally obligated to uphold strict confidentiality. Protecting your privacy is fundamental to our practice and reflects the trust you place in us. We are dedicated to safeguarding all personal information shared in therapy, ensuring it remains secure and confined within the therapeutic relationship.
Exceptional Service and Care
We value the importance of exceptional service in every aspect of our work. We are committed to creating a welcoming environment where clients are heard, respected, and cared for. Our team goes above and beyond to meet the unique needs of each client, tailoring our approach to ensure the highest quality of care. We believe that excellent service extends beyond the therapy room. From the first contact to ongoing communication, we strive to provide a seamless and responsive experience.
Flexible In-Person and Virtual Options
We understand that couples are busy, which is why we offer both in-person therapy at our office in Encinitas, CA and virtual therapy for added convenience. With flexible morning, day, and evening appointments, we ensure that therapy fits into your schedule, whether you prefer to meet from your home or in our private, comfortable office.
Workshops and Intensives
In addition to weekly therapy, we offer workshops and intensives for couples seeking more immersive experiences. These offerings can serve as an adjunct or an alternative to weekly therapy, providing couples with practical tools and opportunities to deepen their connection in a focused and supportive environment.