In Max’s words
The couples I do my best work with
I do my best work with couples who feel stuck in familiar patterns of conflict, distance, or disconnection, but still have curiosity about themselves and each other. I particularly enjoy working with couples who want to understand how their family histories, attachment patterns, and nervous systems shape the ways they relate. You don't need to have it all figured out or even agree on what's wrong. What matters most is a willingness to look inward, take some responsibility, and experiment with new ways of connecting.
My style in the room
I'm warm, engaged, curious, and compassionate, but I'm also willing to be direct and challenge patterns that aren't serving the relationship. I pay close attention to what's happening between partners in real time, including the subtle ways our bodies respond when we feel threatened, hurt, or disconnected. We'll slow things down, get curious about what's underneath familiar reactions, and practice new ways of responding to each other. I bring humor, humanity, and a genuine appreciation for how difficult—and rewarding—relationships can be.
Clients often tell me they appreciate…
My warmth, humor, and ability to create a space where both partners feel heard and understood. They appreciate that I can be compassionate without avoiding difficult conversations, and that I help them slow down, recognize familiar patterns, and find new ways to connect.
Outside the therapy room…
I'm a husband, dad, aspiring bass player, and longtime Austinite. I love riding bikes with my son, spending time outdoors, and singing karaoke with friends. I appreciate both the joy and messiness of life and try to approach it all with curiosity and humor.
Not the right fit for
I typically refer out couples where there is ongoing domestic violence or concerns about safety in the relationship. I also refer out couples when one or both partners are struggling with active addiction and aren't willing or able to seek support for recovery.
Max works with
- Communication & conflict
- Relationship transitions
- Trauma
- Parenting & co-parenting
- Sex & intimacy
Approaches
- Relational Life Therapy (RLT)
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
- Gottman Method
- Integrative / eclectic
Communities served
- BIPOC
- Multicultural / immigrant
- LGBTQ+
- New & expecting parents