Dr. Kipenzi M. Herron — Couples Therapist, Researcher & Speaker

Couples Therapist | Researcher | Speaker | Podcast Host

Advancing Relational Resilience Through Practice, Research, and Education.

About Dr. Kipenzi

I am Dr. Kipenzi M. Herron, LMFT, (#154306) a couples therapist, researcher, speaker, podcast host, and founder of Couples Chat Therapy specializing in relational resilience, step-couple dynamics, attachment, and culturally responsive relationship care.

My work helps couples, step-couples, and consensually non-monogamous partners understand and change the patterns that keep them stuck so they can create relationships that feel safer, more connected, and more resilient.

Beyond the therapy room, my research, speaking, and media work examine the stories, systems, and relational patterns that shape how we connect, cope, and understand one another.

My Approach

Evidence-Based Relationship Therapy

EFT

Emotionally Focused Therapy

A structured approach to couples therapy that helps partners identify and reshape negative interaction cycles, building secure emotional bonds.

Principles

Gottman Method

Research-based interventions that strengthen friendship, manage conflict constructively, and create shared meaning within relationships.

Integrative

EMDR & Solution-Focused

Trauma-informed and goal-oriented modalities woven into therapy to address past wounds and build practical pathways forward.

Areas of Focus

Specialties & Expertise

Couples therapy

Step-couple & blended family dynamics

Consensual non-monogamy (CNM)

Polyamory & alternative relationship structures

Attachment & emotional safety

Relational resilience

Trust repair & conflict resolution

Culturally responsive care

Strong Black Woman schema

Beyond the Therapy Room

Research, Speaking & Conversations That Move the Work Forward

Research

Dissertation research and active studies on step-couple dynamics, relational resilience, and the Strong Black Woman schema.

View Research

Speaking & Media

Conference presentations and community conversations on culturally responsive care, identity, and relational health.

Explore Speaking

Somebody Lied When…

A podcast exploring the stories, myths, and truths that shape how we show up in relationships and in life.

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Services

How We Work Together

For Clinicians

Clinical Consultation

Expert clinical consultation for therapists and mental health professionals seeking guidance on complex relational cases, step-couple dynamics, consensual non-monogamy, and culturally responsive care.

Explore

Individual & Couples

Coaching

Relationship and personal development coaching to help you build clarity, resilience, and intentional connection in your life and partnerships.

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Relational Care

Therapy

Specialized couples and relationship therapy using evidence-based approaches including EFT, Gottman Method, and EMDR — tailored to the unique needs of each relationship.