Intensive Marriage Therapy

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Private, high-impact couples counseling designed to move you through 6-12 months of counseling in 2 days.
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A broken marriage can be repaired. You can recover from an affair. It is possible to fall back in love with your spouse. You can come back from the brink of divorce.

Intensive marriage therapy can help you fix a dying relationship. The goal of a couples retreat is not to move you back to a place where you are no longer in crisis and continue to live separate, but parallel lives with less fighting. The goal if intensive therapy is to help you reestablish connection and develop a relationship that is deeper and more fulfilling that you have probably ever known.

“We were able to see and hear each other for maybe the first time in our marriage. I gained a deeper love and respect for my wife.”

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Marriage Intensives are designed for couples who:

  • Desire results quickly
  • Are experiencing significant distress in their relationships
  • May be unable to attend traditional therapy each week due to scheduling conflicts or work commitments
  • May be prominent members of a community or live in a small town and want more privacy while they work on their relationship
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“This intensive did more to help my understanding of why we struggle in our marriage than anything we have read/heard/done in 21 years of married life. I wish we came 20 years ago.”

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My Approach:
Emotionally Focused Therapy

At the heart of my work is Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)—a proven, research-based approach designed to help couples rebuild trust, restore emotional connection, and create lasting change.

EFT focuses on understanding and transforming the emotional patterns that drive conflict, distance, and disconnection in relationships. By addressing these deeper issues, I guide couples toward a more secure and loving bond.

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With my guidance, you’ll learn how to:

  • Identify and shift negative patterns of interaction
  • Deepen your emotional connection and intimacy
  • Build a secure foundation of trust and support – even after a betrayal
  • Navigate challenges with more compassion and understanding
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You CAN have the Lasting Rewards of a Happy Marriage

Health and Fulfillment

Strong relationships lead to greater physical and mental health, happiness, and fulfillment.

Career Success

Happy couples excel at work with less stress and lower risk of burnout, achieving more while staying balanced.

Emotional Resilience

A strong relationship increases your emotional capacity to handle daily parenting and life challenges.

Dr. Kim Blackham's Office

What to Expect

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Step 1: Deciding if the Intensive is Right for You

This first step is a personal consultation by phone or video call. It is an opportunity for us to connect, talk through how the intensive works, and ensure that this investment in your relationship is the best path forward.

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Step 2: Attending Your Personalized Intensive Retreat

During your 2-day, immersive experience—in a private, comfortable setting—we’ll work intensively on rebuilding trust, improving communication, and deepening emotional connection.

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Step 3: Moving Forward with a Plan

Together, we will develop actionable strategies tailored to your relationship, ensuring you have the tools to maintain the progress made during the intensive. You will both leave empowered to continue building a stronger, more fulfilling relationship long after the retreat has ended.

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Meet Dr. Kim Blackham

With years of specialized experience and a deep commitment to couples therapy, I have dedicated my career to helping relationships thrive. I pioneered intensive based emotionally focused therapy and have offered that exclusively for the last 12 years. During that time, I have helped over 500 couples from almost every state and across the globe.

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This intensive therapy program combines leading-edge research with compassion and commitment to your success. That is why I am able to achieve outstanding outcomes that are not available everywhere.

The Quality of Our Relationships
Determine the Quality of Our Lives

The financial cost associated with divorce attorneys, moving, alimony, and child support is only a tiny representation of the actual cost of divorce.

The true cost of not seeking relationship help is the heartache, emotional exhaustion, loneliness, and despair that accompany distress in a relationship.

While it may sound a bit cliché, the real question is how could you afford not to invest in the one area of your life that research has proven over and over again is your greatest possible source of success and happiness.

You spend so much time and energy taking care of the people around you. Now is the time to take care of yourself and your most important relationship.

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“Kim saved our marriage. I feel closer to my husband than ever–even after 20 years of being together. I finally feel connected to my husband. I feel we got to the root of the problem”

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“Our visit to Kim was a desperate attempt to save a marriage that had become so unhappy I was ready to leave my husband of 13 years. I really didn’t think the therapy could help us. But, after several visits with Kim and using EFT therapy, we have gradually come to an unbelievably happier place in our relationship. My husband and I have connected in a way now that we never did been before. I have no intention of leaving now. My love for my husband has deepened and our respect and appreciation for each other has increased beyond our expectations. I’m so glad I didn’t give up and that we were able to salvage a marriage and family that mean everything to me.”

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Frequently Asked Questions

How is intensive marriage therapy different from other marriage retreats?

Intensive marriage therapy is different from traditional retreats because it focuses on resolving deep-rooted issues through concentrated, personalized therapy.

Unlike general marriage retreats that offer group sessions and broad exercises, intensive therapy provides one-on-one expert guidance tailored to your specific relationship challenges. This immersive approach allows for deeper healing and lasting change in a shorter time frame. Group marriage retreats are not ideal for couples in serious distress.

Is intensive marriage therapy right for me?

Intensive marriage therapy could be right for you if you’re looking for faster, more impactful results than traditional weekly sessions provide. In just 2 days, you’ll make the kind of progress that usually takes 6-12 months of weekly therapy, helping you address your relationship crisis more effectively.

The immersive retreat setting also allows you to escape everyday distractions and focus fully on your relationship while offering greater anonymity for couples who prefer privacy.

What is the typical schedule for the intensive marriage therapy?

Intensive Marriage Therapy Two-Day Schedule

Day One: 6 hours

Morning

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or the venue of your choice. Allow yourselves plenty of time so you do not feel rushed. I encourage you to do some physical activity in the morning – a brisk walk, easy jog, yoga, or Pilates – as well as to take a few minutes to ground yourself in whatever quiet, mindful way works for you – e.g., spiritual devotion, meditation, or journal writing. We will meet at my office at 8:30 a.m.

8:00 – Check-In

When you arrive at the office, you will check in on the 11th floor. Dress comfortably and consider wearing layers–especially during the winter. Consider bringing a book or a journal the first day to use while I meet with your partner individually. This will help you resist the urge to turn to work-related materials/emails.

8:00-9:00 – Couple Session

During this time, we will review your relationship history and discuss the current state.

9:00-10:00 – Individual Session with Partner A

Partner B – You can sit in the lobby or visit a Coffee shop/Bakery near my office. I will have some assessments for you to fill out while you wait.

10:00 -11:00 – Individual Session with Partner B

Partner A – You can sit in the lobby or visit a Coffee shop/Bakery near my office. I will have some assessments for you to fill out while you wait.

11:00-11:15 – Break

Quick break to grab a snack, walk around for a few minutes.

11:15 – 2:00 – Couples Session

We will meet back together for a joint couple session. I will explain the process for the rest of our sessions and answer any questions you may have.

We will then begin to figure out the negative patterns and cycles in your relationship. I will help you make sense of the disconnection and hurt you both experience.

Afternoon and Evening

I encourage you to have a nice dinner together and spend the evening doing something relaxing that you enjoy. You will have much to talk about. There are many excellent restaurants within walking distance of my office. Explore Historic Downtown Bethlehem, take a walk through Jacobsburg State Park, or work on the homework assignment I will give you. Focus on getting a good night’s sleep.

Day Two: 6 hours

Morning

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or another local eatery. Again, allow yourself enough time so that you won’t feel rushed. Please spend some time preparing yourself for our work together by engaging in at least 15 minutes of physical activity and mindfulness practice.

8:00-2:00 – Couple session with a 15-minute break

Now that we understand the negative patterns in your relationship, we will work to help you both ask for what you want and need in a way that invites your partner to be close. Day 2 is where we begin to heal past hurts and develop a deeper, more resilient connection.

Before we wrap up the intensive, we will solidify the progress over the past two days and prepare a plan of action for you to use as you move forward together.

What is the difference between the 2-day and 3-day intensives?

Both the two-day and the three-day intensives are the same amount of time – 12 hours. The two-day intensives are held over two six-hour days. The three-day intensives are three shorter days. During your consultation, we will discuss which option is best for you.

What do I need to do before coming for intensive couples counseling?

Before attending intensive couples counseling, you’ll need to complete a few steps to ensure the process is as effective as possible.

  1. Schedule a consultation with me to discuss your specific challenges and confirm that the intensive is the right fit for your relationship.
  2. You’ll then receive an intake form and other preparatory paperwork to fill out, which will give me a better understanding of your relationship history and key areas of concern.
  3. Additionally, I recommend reading Hold Me Tight by Dr. Sue Johnson before the intensive to familiarize yourself with the principles of Emotionally Focused Therapy.
  4. Arrange your travel and accommodations, and make sure you’re ready to step away from daily distractions to fully focus on your relationship during the retreat.

Is intensive marriage therapy covered by insurance?

Intensive marriage therapy may be covered by your insurance if your mental health benefits include couples counseling. While I do not bill insurance directly, I can provide the necessary paperwork for you to submit claims for reimbursement through your insurance or health savings account. Please contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage for marriage counseling and out-of-network benefits.

Where is this intensive marriage retreat located?

Historic Downtown Bethlehem

Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, Bethlehem, PA is a perfect couples getaway. As a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Couples can explore the well-preserved colonial architecture, stroll through the charming downtown area with its boutique shops and cafes, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Lehigh River. The city’s romantic ambiance and array of cultural events make it an ideal destination for a memorable escape.

Marriage Retreat in Pennsylvania

The Lehigh Valley is a beautiful area of Eastern Pennsylvania. Several main cities that make up the area including Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, Nazareth, Northampton, and Emmaus.

The good news is that it is easy to get here from almost anywhere. It is a reasonable drive from many major East Coast cities. You also have the flexibility of four major airports within an hour and a half.

Nearly 95% of my clients travel from out of state for the marriage retreat.

Driving Time to/from the Lehigh Valley:

New York City (NYC) – 1.5 hours
Philadelphia, PA – 1.5 hours
Wilmington, DE – 1.5 hours
Newark, NJ – 1.5 hours
Trenton, NJ – 1.5 hours
New Haven, CT – 1.5 hours
Hershey, PA – 1.5 hours
Baltimore, MD – 2.5 hours
Ithaca, NY – 3 hours
Washington D.C. – 3.5 hours
Albany, NY – 3.5 hours
Hartford, CT – 3.5 hours
Pittsburgh, PA – 4.5 hours

Airports

The closest airport is the Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE). It is a smaller airport which is wonderful to fly in and out of. If you can find a reasonably priced flight, I encourage you to use this airport. It is only about 15 minutes from my office.

You can find non-stop flights into ABE from Detroit, Chicago, Charlotte, Atlanta, Myrtle Beach, Tampa, Orlando, and Fort Myers. The Newark, New Jersey (EWR), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (PHL), and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania (MDT) airports are also conveniently within an hour and a half of my office.

Do you offer online retreats?

I am licensed as a marriage and family therapist in Pennsylvania, New York, Florida, North Carolina, and Idaho, allowing me to offer online retreats to couples in those states. During our consultation, we can discuss whether this option is the right fit for your situation.

Are there hotels and dining nearby?

Hotels

There are two hotels within walking distance of my office. The Historic Hotel Bethlehem is a beautiful and iconic hotel in the heart of “Christmas City.” It is a local favorite and a charming change of pace from the traditional chain hotel.

The Hyatt Place Bethlehem is a good option if you don’t want to stay at Hotel Bethlehem but still want to stay in the heart of Historic Downtown. It is clean, comfortable, and reasonably priced.

Resort/Spa

Wind Creek Bethlehem is a new luxury hotel and spa about 1.8 miles from my office. If you are looking for a resort-style retreat for your intensive, this venue provides a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence. The spa spans an expansive 14,000 square feet, offering a comprehensive salon experience. Its premium amenities include features like a cryotherapy chamber, serene relaxation pools, chairs suspended over a shallow pool, infrared sauna facilities, aromatic steam rooms, and stunning views overlooking Bethlehem.

Dining

There are many excellent restaurants within walking distance of my office and the above three hotels. I will provide you with suggestions for nearby restaurants and local favorites. If there is a specific cuisine you would like, let me know, and I will make sure and include it in your packet.

If I'm local, can I just fit this intensive into my daily life?

While it’s tempting to fit the intensive into your daily routine if you’re local, I strongly recommend treating it as a retreat from everyday life. The power of intensive therapy comes from fully stepping away from distractions—work, kids, and other responsibilities—so you can focus entirely on your relationship. Immersing yourself in this process without the usual interruptions allows for deeper breakthroughs and a more transformative experience. Treat this time as an essential investment in your relationship.

After the marriage intensive will we need additional counseling?

Many couples find that the intensive alone gives them the tools and clarity they need to move forward with a stronger relationship. Others may benefit from additional counseling to continue building on the progress made during the retreat. While the intensive provides a strong foundation for healing and reconnection, follow-up sessions can help reinforce new patterns, address any lingering issues, and ensure lasting change.

Ultimately, the decision for further counseling depends on your specific needs and goals, and together, we will create a personalized plan for moving forward before you leave my office.

Is Intensive Marriage Therapy Worth it?

Intensive marriage therapy is a powerful investment in the future of your relationship. Your relationship is too important to wait for slow progress. When you’re in crisis or feeling stuck, traditional therapy may not deliver the quick, deep results you need.

Intensive therapy provides the focused time and space to break through long-standing issues, heal emotional wounds, and create lasting change—all within a few days. If you’re ready for real, lasting change, intensive marriage therapy offers an unparalleled opportunity to transform your relationship and your life.

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