David Penner

Web_Headshots_0043_Dave 1Dave Penner is a licensed clinical psychologist and is the Clinical Director of The Gottman Institute. He is the author of the Leader’s Guide for Teaching the Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work, which is based on years of experience teaching John Gottman’s Seven Principles book. He has trained therapists in the Gottman Method in North America, Asia and Europe and is the co-developer of the Gottman Seven Principles Program.

In his previous role as the Clinical Director, Dr. Penner oversaw clinical aspects of Institute, including providing consultation to Certified Gottman Therapists and clinicians in training; selecting and training consultants for clinicians pursuing certification; training and supervising video reviewers who certify therapists in the Gottman Method; overseeing quality control of new programs and products; training and supervising roving therapists at couples workshops; responding to quality concerns about therapists and consultants; and answering clinical questions.

Dave practiced for over 30 years as an individual and couples therapist, working in private practice, university, mental health and hospital settings.


Laura Heck

laura heck lmftLaura Heck is a licensed marriage and family therapist with a private practice in Salt Lake City, UT and Bend, OR. She received her M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Seattle and has completed advanced clinical training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy. Her work includes couples therapy, online counseling, workshops, speaking engagements, and teaching for The Gottman Institute.

While serving as Director of Professional Development at the Gottman Institute, Laura co-developed The Gottman Seven Principles Program together with the Clinical Director at the time, Dr. David Penner, and authored The Seven Principles Companion Workbook. She continues as a Trainer for the program which has trained thousands of people to offer the Seven Principles Program in their communities, across six continents.

Laura is a charismatic and energetic speaker who’s love of life shines through her quirky and quick-witted presentations. Her transparency and authenticity is evident through her use of storytelling and examples of her own struggles in relationship with others. Laura is able to connect with audiences large and small, whether speaking to intimate groups or an audience of 900. Laura lives with her beloved and patient husband and their young son. She is honored to share the power of the Gottmans’ research with audiences around the world.