How Couples Overcome Issues in Relationships
Solving Relationship Communication Problems: How Couples Overcome Issues in Relationships We all know that feeling when communication in our relationship seems more like a battleground than a bonding experience. It can be tough, but you’re not alone. Many couples face communication issues that leave them feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, and stuck in frustrating patterns. Gottman research […]
Should I Stay or Should I Go? When Is the Right Time to Seek Divorce
Why Do Couples Divorce? Soft vs. Hard Reasons There are several commonly reported contributors to divorce. Research reported in the Journal of Divorce and Remarriage distinguishes between “soft” reasons – not being able to talk to each other, high levels of conflict and arguing, feeling lonely within the relationship – and ‘“hard” reasons such as […]
Why Get Married Today? 8 Reasons to Say ‘I Do’
You know that moment when you’re scrolling through social media and see another engagement announcement, and you find yourself wondering: Is marriage still worth it? Maybe you’re deeply in love with your partner but questioning whether a wedding ring really changes anything. Or perhaps friends and family keep asking when you’re getting married, and you’re […]
Building a Partnership That Lasts
Maybe you’ve been together for months, or even years, but something feels uncertain. You love each other—that much you know—but love alone doesn’t guarantee a successful relationship. The truth is, the strongest partnerships don’t happen by accident. They’re built with intention, care, and yes—a plan. So many couples drift through their relationships hoping things will […]
What to Look for in a Long Term Partner: 12 Must Have Qualities
When you’re ready to find someone to share your life with, the stakes feel incredibly high. After all, choosing a life partner is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make – one that will shape your daily happiness, emotional well-being, and future dreams for decades to come. The person you choose will be […]
Infidelity in Relationships and Recovery in Couples Therapy
Infidelity is probably one of the most painful and destabilizing events that can occur in a romantic relationship. It breaks trust, can lead to psychological trauma, emotional suffering, or even the onset of mental illness, and often raises questions about the future of the relationship. As a couples therapist, I’ve noticed that the meaning of […]
Effective Communication in Romantic Relationships
Disclaimer: If you are currently in a relationship where you feel unsafe, coerced, manipulated, or emotionally or physically harmed, this post is not a substitute for safety planning or professional guidance. Please seek support from a domestic violence hotline or a trusted professional to ensure your well-being. Qualities of effective communication and how it helps […]
How Do Arguments Affect Relationships Over Time?
While conflict is inevitable, frequent arguments will affect a relationship over time. Couples that do not effectively manage conflict will enter a cycle of fighting that is hard to break. When disagreements become more frequent and intense, they can damage the positive aspects of a couple’s connection that brought them together in the first place. […]
Moving Beyond “Right” and “Wrong” in Relationships
Terry Real’s influence in the world of couples therapy is hard to overstate. A bestselling author, renowned social worker, and respected clinician, Real is known for blending emotional depth with clear-eyed pragmatism. He tells the truth, but always with compassion. Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, Real hosted a virtual gathering for fellow therapists. His message—that […]
Therapy Isn’t Something to Be Ashamed Of
As a therapist, as well as someone who goes to therapy, I can speak firsthand about the importance of attending therapy. Think of it this way: you are driving your car and suddenly you hear a funny noise. At first, you ignore it and hope it goes away. But over time, the noise starts to […]