Beyond the Bedroom: Nonsexual and Physical Touch in Relationships
Physical touch in relationships does not always have to be sexual. Learn how nonsexual touch can strengthen your relationship.
Mia Edelstein December 4, 2025
Sound Relationship House is a relationship group for individuals and couples focused on building long-lasting connections and positive dating experiences. In each meeting, we will discuss a different aspect of researcher John Gottman’s model for relationships called “The Sound Relationship House.” Some of these topics include creating trust and commitment, managing conflict, and a concept called “the Four Horsemen of the relationship apocalypse.” This relationships group will allow its members to nurture their current interpersonal strengths and skills while introducing them to new concepts and topics every week. We will also provide space for members to discuss and process their own experiences with dating and relationships in a supportive shared environment. This group is a workshop for couples and individuals in any stage of a romantic relationship, as well as to any individual that identifies as single and is looking to explore more about creating a healthy, long-lasting relationship.
Who: Limited to 10 members; People of any age and orientation are invited to join. Both Individuals and couples are welcome.
Where: This group will be held virtually via Zoom. Cost: $75 per session for individuals, $125 per session for couples, with sliding scale available. If you have Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance, you are only responsible for your copay. For all other insurance providers, you may use you out-of-network benefits.
Members should be willing to commit to all 8 weeks (see below for our missed session policy). Each week, we will discuss a new element in creating a “Sound Relationship House.” This is a framework for building long lasting, successful relationships that was developed by relationship specialist John Gottman. These concepts include:
It is important that members be able to attend at least 6 out of the 8 sessions. Members who sign up will receive one pass, meaning you can miss a session without penalty. Any subsequent missed sessions will incur a missed session fee.
This group is for all adults who want to learn more about creating long lasting, fulfilling relationships and welcomes both individuals and couples. Whether you are single, dating, or in a relationship, this group will show you how to become a more effective partner. This group is open to all genders and sexual orientations.
Yes. We are in-network for Blue Cross Blue Shield and out of network for all other insurance companies. We submit claims electronically for you in order for you to receive reimbursement.
Each group session will be based around a particular element of John Gottman’s “Sound Relationship House” theory. We will begin with a psychoeducational component, in which you will learn the foundations of a “Sound Relationship House.” We will then move into a group discussion surrounding the week’s topic. The group facilitators will help lead discussions, and group members will be able to choose if and how they would like to share in the discussion setting.
The “Sound Relationship House” is a theoretical model based on 30 years of relationship research conducted by the Gottman Institute. It is composed of “floors” which represent the integral components of a safe and successful relationship. In each group session, we will discuss a different floor of the relationship house, building off personal experiences, interpersonal group dynamics, and previous group discussions.
Physical touch in relationships does not always have to be sexual. Learn how nonsexual touch can strengthen your relationship.
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