More about Gal...

In his work with hundreds of couples, Gal Szekely has observed that most relationship issues stem from one well-intentioned but misguided thought: “It should come naturally!” In reality, strong partnerships don’t just happen—they require tools and resources most of us weren’t given and don’t even realize we need.

As the director of The Couples Center and Love Made Simple, Gal is dedicated to the vision of helping all couples create a Love that Lasts. His warm, practical approach—combining psychotherapy, coaching, and spiritual guidance—recognizes and honors the very best in every person, and makes him a sought-after coach, therapist, and workshop leader.

Gal’s transformative experience in his own relationship compelled him to leave a successful career in high-tech marketing and management consulting in favor of pursuing a master’s degree in Integral Counseling Psychology at San Francisco’s California Institute of Integral Studies, a school blending Eastern and Western healing philosophies. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Gal’s relationship with his wife is the source of inspiration for his commitment to helping couples create thriving relationships.

Gal has a lifelong dedication to learning and growth and is trained in a range of effective couples counseling methods. He is an instructor in the Hakomi experiential therapy method and is part of the Hakomi California teaching staff. He is also and adjunct faculty at CIIS University and JFK University where he teaches couples counseling. He has studied EFT (Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy) extensively and often incorporates EFT into his therapy work. Additionally, Gal utilizes a powerful approach to therapy called PACT (Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy) which utilizes cutting edge neuroscience and attachment theory. His work draws on years of meditation practice and a deep understanding of the body-mind connection. Gal also holds a master’s in Social Psychology from Tel-Aviv University in Israel, and conducts marriage counseling in Hebrew as well as English.

An experienced speaker and workshop leader, Gal has led dynamic, highly rated events at local tech companies, nonprofits, and universities. Gal has been interviewed for J. Weekly, I Do Podcast, and SFGate and is an expert contributor at YourTango. His articles have been featured on Prevention.com, PsychCentral, Momtastic, and The Huffington Post.