Of Course I Love Orna!
People often ask me if I watch the show Couples Therapy and what I think of its star therapist, Dr. Orna Guralnik. Unequivocally, I gush. In my opinion, Orna is everything you want in a couples therapist. I’ll expand on that!
1. Presence. Orna is fully engaged in the session. She listens actively and responds with attuned precision. She doesn’t sit back passively while her clients talk it out—she is in it with them.
2. Focus. Orna often leans in, tracking not only the words but also the energy and emotion in the room. Her presence is palpable. She’s tuned into body language, tone, and subtext. She’s never bored, never checked out. She’s reading the couple’s dynamic like a seasoned navigator charting a stormy sea.
3. Care. Orna’s warmth and respect for each partner shine through. She knows the power of the therapeutic alliance—and she builds it with both individuals. She doesn’t choose sides. Her compassion is steady, even when emotions run high. She knows that trust is the gateway to change.
4. Curiosity. Orna never assumes. She asks, “What did that feel like for you?” or “What’s happening inside right now?” Her questions are open, genuine, and inviting. She holds space for nuance and complexity—and never rushes to judgment.
And yes, the aesthetics help! Orna’s mid-century modern therapy office is a minimalist dream. Her perfectly behaved dog, her expressive jewelry, and her grounded presence create an atmosphere that feels both elevated and deeply human.
But it’s not the furniture that heals—it’s her skill. It’s the safety she creates. It’s her clarity and her care. As a couples therapist myself, I take inspiration from Orna’s approach. At Quartermaster Counseling, I aim to bring that same sense of presence, curiosity, and collaboration into the therapy room. If you and your partner feel stuck, lost, or unsure how to move forward, know that there is a way through.
