Welcome to my Blog

Most people don’t arrive here because something dramatic has happened.

They arrive because something feels… different.

The relationship still works. Conversations still happen. Life continues.

But something important is no longer organizing it the way it used to.

This space is where I write about that shift.

Not just what breaks relationships—but what quietly changes them:

  • how desire adapts.

  • how attention moves.

  • how meaning erodes or deepens over time.

These patterns are not random.
They tend to unfold in a predictable sequence.

If you’re here, you’re likely in one of those moments:

  • trying to understand what changed.

  • trying to decide whether it matters.

  • trying to figure out what to do next.

Start anywhere.

But if something here feels familiar, don’t treat it as abstract.

It usually isn’t.

Where to Begin

If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, these are a few good entry points:

If You’re Looking for More Than Insight

Understanding is useful.

But at a certain point, most couples realize they can explain their relationship clearly—and still not change it.

That’s where focused work becomes effective.

I offer structured, high-impact couples intensives designed to produce meaningful movement in a compressed period of time.

Before We Decide Anything

A brief consultation helps determine:

  • whether this is what you’re dealing with.

  • whether this format fits.

  • and whether we should move forward.

Get a Clear Read on Your Relationship

Take your time reading.

But if something here lands in a way that feels specific—pay attention to that.

That’s usually where this work begins.

Continue Exploring

If you prefer to browse more broadly, you can explore posts by topic below.

But most people don’t find what they need by browsing.

They find it when something they read feels uncomfortably accurate.

Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.
~ Daniel

 

Signs of Trouble Daniel Dashnaw Signs of Trouble Daniel Dashnaw

Can talk therapies relieve Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, affects over three million Americans and 500,000 folks in the UK.

Symptoms like stomach pain, diarrhea, bleeding, anemia, and fatigue not only impact physical health but also significantly affect mental health and quality of life.

A recent review of research suggests that psychosocial interventions can play a crucial role in managing IBD.

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7 More things Narcissists do when they are alone (And 10 Things That Crush Their Ego)

Being alone can be a challenging experience for many, but for narcissists, it’s particularly complex.

Narcissistic folks thrive on attention, admiration, and validation from others – what’s commonly referred to as narcissistic supply.

Without this supply, they can feel empty and unfulfilled.

As a couples therapist, I've seen how these tendencies manifest, even in solitude. Here are seven things narcissists often do when they are alone, followed by ten things that can crush their ego.

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What Narcissists Do When No One Is Watching

Narcissism often manifests in grandiose behavior, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. But what happens when the spotlight fades, and the narcissist is left alone?

As a couples therapist, I've seen how these moments of solitude can be particularly challenging for individuals with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD).

Let's explore 8 behaviors narcissists typically engage in when they're by themselves, shedding light on their need for narcissistic supply and the struggles they face in isolation.

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Cognitive biases in relationships

During an age of profound self-absorption, cognitive biases play an enormous role in relationship dynamics, often leading to miscommunication, conflict, and resentment.

When these biases are amplified by cultural narcissism, particularly prevalent in American society, the effects can be even more pronounced.

Let’s consider a few of cognitive biases, how they manifest in relationships, and how Cultural Narcissism emerges as a force multiplier.

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Not all couples thrive on compassion: Study reveals some partners prefer selfishness

While conventional wisdom has long touted compassion as the secret sauce for relationship success, this study flips the script.

The traditional narrative tells us that couples who shower each other with compassion are happier, more caring, and more committed.

They're the ones who cancel plans to be with their partner, write love notes on the bathroom mirror, and remember to pick up their partner's favorite snacks.

But hold onto your hats, folks, because this study suggests that not everyone is on board with this lovey-dovey approach.

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What is Benign Narcissism?

One phenomenon that continues to captivate my interest is the notion of Benign Narcissism.

This term, which used to describe the ability to straddle the line between healthy self-regard and destructive self-obsession, is particularly relevant in the context of American culture.

Let’s consider some of the dynamics of Benign Narcissism and its cultural manifestations and implications for individuals and society.

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How to Divorce a Psychopath

Divorce is rarely easy, but when your partner is a psychopath, the process can become exponentially more challenging.

Psychopaths, with their lack of empathy, manipulative tendencies, and propensity for causing emotional havoc, present unique hurdles that require strategic planning and a strong support system.

Let’s consider how to go about divorcing a psychopath. Yeah, I’ll discuss the narcissists too…

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Unpacking the addiction to Online Shopping

Welcome to the 21st century, where your smartphone is your new best friend, and your digital cart is always ready for some action.

As a marriage and family therapist, I've seen the strains that shopping addiction can place on relationships.

So today, let's focus on the folks who can't resist the siren call of a good deal.

Online shopping addiction isn't just about the thrill of the purchase; it's a complex dance with dopamine, the brain's feel-good chemical.

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Unmasking the Malignant Narcissist: Overt vs. Covert

Narcissism is a term often tossed around casually, but when it comes to Malignant Narcissism, we're delving into a much darker and more complex territory.

In the realm of Malignant Narcissists, there are two primary types: Overt and Covert.

Each type presents its own unique challenges and requires different strategies for coping and understanding.

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