Let’s face it. Intimacy is hard work. Navigating the complexities of intimate relationships can be challenging under the best of circumstances.

However, when your partner exhibits traits and behaviors characteristic of a personality disorder, these challenges can escalate into a daily battle for emotional and physical safety.

As a couples therapist, I have encountered some folks ensnared in relationships with partners who, beneath a veneer of charm and intelligence, harbor deeply destructive tendencies.

In this post, we’ll consider the nuanced and often hidden dynamics of such relationships, outlining key warning signs and behaviors that can help you identify when to seek help and protect yourself.

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.

Texting can be a wonderful way to stay connected, but when you're dealing with a narcissist, your phone can feel more like a ticking time bomb.

Here’s a guide to seven toxic texting habits of narcissists, complete with explanations and a sprinkle of humor to lighten the load.

Navigating a relationship with a narcissist can feel like being on a rollercoaster designed by someone who hates fun.

One moment, you're on top of the world; the next, you're free-falling into emotional oblivion.

Here’s the 7 notorious ways narcissists discard you, peppered with insights from narcissism experts.

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.

Covert Narcissism is Toxic Narcissism’s smarmy little brother.

Here are 10 signs you’re conversing with a Covert Narcissist. I’ll also discuss how most folks feel afterward.

Let’s jump in!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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…

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.