Date Doctor Kristen Johnson, PhD, has been featured in…

About Date Doctor
Kristen Johnson has a PhD in Premarital Romantic Communication from Northwestern University, and teaches people how to date – how to approach, plan, manage conversations, and behave during ‘Dates 0-3’ (date initiation through about the third date). Along with Date Doctor Associates, Dr. Johnson provides action and behavior techniques around an exclusive 20-behavior index, with recommendations backed by rigorously tested, statistically significant sets of aggregate data from academic studies.

How does the process work?
That depends on you and your individual needs (and client confidentiality is paramount). A ‘typical’ process includes an application submission; an initial consultation; and a set of activities and/or ‘real world’ practice sessions defined to help you achieve your goals.

Activities/sessions could include:

• ‘Mock’ dates with candid post-date feedback
• Shadow double dates
• Evenings out to practice initiation, flirting, etc.
• Dating ‘Bootcamp’ or ’25-Date Week’
• Feedback gathering (contacting recent or former dating partners)
• Dating etiquette, including social media forums and online communication
• Online profile maintenance or online date initiation
• Pre- or post-date debrief sessions
• Date planning
• Grooming, wardrobe, or environment recommendations
• Initiation and/or graceful exit options

Date Doctor clients include anyone who wants to change his or her dating ‘persona’: recently divorced; never married; new to dating; starting online dating for the first time; etc. Dr. Johnson has even helped married couples re-learn how to ‘date’ each other!

Are you a matchmaking service?
Date Doctor is not a matchmaking service – we do not maintain a ‘catalogue’ of potential matches. All clients are asked to register and actively monitor a new or existing profile on one of the many online introduction services OR work with a qualified professional matchmaker.

How is what you do different from coaching, therapy or counseling?
The Date Doctor approach focuses exclusively on surface-level verbal and nonverbal behaviors associated with ‘Dates 0-3,’ along with cause-and-effect patterns. Clients with a need for introspection or help identifying relationship requirements are better served working with a certified Relationship Coach. Clients expressing deep emotional and/or other mental health-related issues are referred to other types of professional support.

How much does it cost?
While the cost depends on the program desired, current packages range from $200-$300 for an hour consult, hour mock date (or other selected ‘real world practice’ activity), and debrief. Additional options range from $150-$1250. Gift certificates are available for friends, family, etc.