Lawrence Stoyanowski

I have been practicing Marriage and Family Therapy since 1991 after earning my Master’s Degree from Loma Linda University, one of the top five Marriage and Family Therapy programs in the world. I am a Certified Gottman Therapist and have specialized in the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy since 2004.

As co-owner of Best Marriages and Affinity Counselling Services, and co-founder of Lighthouse Counselling, I bring over three decades of experience helping couples and families build stronger, more connected relationships. I have also worked in counselling centers and family clinics across California, Alberta, and British Columbia.

My passion lies in helping couples repair, rebuild, and thrive using research-based methods that create lasting change. The Gottman Method provides a clear and practical framework for improving communication, managing conflict, and deepening emotional connection. My clients describe me as energetic, compassionate, and action-oriented. Sessions are positive, supportive, and often humour-filled—creating a safe space where learning and growth come naturally. I focus on solutions, not problems, helping partners move from blame toward acceptance, understanding, and change.

In addition to my clinical practice, I train and mentor therapists internationally as an Advanced Gottman Clinical Trainer for The Gottman Institute. I teach Levels 1, 2, and 3 Clinical Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and present The Art and Science of Love Couples Workshop annually in Vancouver, BC.  I have also presented at the Annual Gottman Conference and serve on the Gottman Institute Speakers Bureau.

My therapeutic approach combines Structural-Strategic and Solution-Focused Therapy, guiding clients to gain clarity about what they want, why it matters, and how to achieve it. I believe people thrive when they are clear on their goals and supported in taking meaningful action. My role is to help clients reconnect the dots between where they are and where they want to be.

Beyond clinical work, I have served my community as Chair and Vice Chair of the Community Health and Education Committee at Langley Hospital, Director at Large for Aldergrove Neighbourhood Services, and Steering Committee Member for the Aldergrove Computer Training School (A.C.T.S.).

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time and traveling with my wife and two daughters and playing golf with friends.

Helping People Help Themselves.