Martha Bartlow
MS, LPC, NCC, Supervisor
I specialize in helping couples navigate difficult challenges: the aftermath of betrayal, the strain of new parenthood, intimacy issues, postpartum depression, infertility struggles, and those communication cycles that somehow always end in the same argument. Using evidence-based approaches like the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), I help you move from disconnection and constant frustration to clarity, repair, and renewed partnership. I am direct, honest, and occasionally sarcastic.
As a mom of four, I understand firsthand that love does not exist in a vacuum. It exists alongside endless loads of laundry, weeks without sleep, and a mental load you didn’t see coming. I love working with couples who are ready to do the work and make lasting changes, even when it feels difficult or intimidating. My job is not to take sides; it is to help you understand one another, communicate more effectively, and rebuild trust and connection in a way that truly lasts.
These sessions are just under an hour long and focus on making progress towards the goals of the couple. Typically, these are scheduled weekly until the couple feels more certain in their growth, then we begin reducing sessions. I am not a advocate for “forever therapy” in most situations.
Standard Couples Therapy
These are often utilized after a significant betrayal or when the couple does not have the time for weekly work. We meet for a full day and work on the biggest concerns first. There are breaks for snacks, but expect for this day to feel intense (it is in the name!). This is often done on a few occasions.
Marathon/Intensive Therapy
I know I advertise as a couples therapist, but I work with individuals too! Usually a significant portion of my caseload is one person seeking support. I work with depression, anxiety, life changes, mothers, grief, parenthood and many other concerns.
Individual Therapy
I am a registered supervisor in the state of Oregon. My supervision style is similar to my therapy style: positive and direct. I love helping people learn and grow, but I believe in doing that in a way that feels uplifting and encouraging.
Supervision
While relationship therapy is deeply valuable and transformative, these services are typically not covered by insurance.
Insurance companies require a medically necessary mental health diagnosis in order to authorize reimbursement. Because couples therapy primarily focuses on relational dynamics, communication, and intimacy (rather than treating a specific mental health condition) they are considered “non-covered services” under most plans.
Even if one partner has a diagnosis, the focus of treatment is the relationship, not the individual’s mental health. For this reason, I do not provide diagnosis, utilize CPT codes, or bill insurance for these services, and they are not eligible for out-of-network reimbursement.
If you have questions or would like a referral to an in-network provider, I’m happy to help.