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 […]
The importance of sibling relationships
Siblings….your relationship with them is one of the most important ones in your childhood and into adulthood. Parents want to help their kids get along. More than 80% of kids in the U.S. grow up with one or more siblings (more than grow up with fathers!) yet the importance of these relationships is not always […]
Why Are You Still Single?
Understanding why you are still single requires looking at how you approach relationships and what kind of partner you are. This type of self awareness and Emotional intelligence is not necessarily innate especially if you did not have a healthy relationship modeled for you growing up. Many singles need help learning the skills that are […]
How To Develop Your EQ
What is Emotional intelligence in the first place? Emotional intelligence (EQ) in relationships is being able to recognize, understand, and manage your own emotions, and to attune to your partner’s emotions. It’s not just about staying calm or being a “good communicator.” This is about noticing what you’re feeling, making space for your partner’s experience, […]
Is Climate Change Hurting Our Relationships?
Residents of Asheville, North Carolina, and Lahaina, Maui, are still trying to rebuild their lives after their cities were decimated by extreme weather—a tropical storm in Asheville and a wildfire in Lahaina—in 2023. Meanwhile, residents of Los Angeles County have barely begun rebuilding, after numerous fires in January forced tens of thousands to evacuate and […]
Toxic Relationships: What Are The Signs?
Toxic relationships are characterized by harmful behaviors like lack of support, toxic communication, jealousy, control, dishonesty, and betrayal, which can take a toll on Mental health, causing stress, anxiety, and isolation. While toxic dynamics erode emotional well-being, they differ from abusive relationships, which involve more severe harm. Recognizing red flags, such as manipulation or constant […]