Welcome to my Blog

Thank you for stopping by. This space is where I share research, reflections, and practical tools drawn from my experience as a marriage and family therapist.

Are you a couple looking for clarity? A professional curious about the science of relationships? Or simply someone interested in how love and resilience work? I’m glad you’ve found your way here. I can help with that.

Each post is written with one goal in mind: to help you better understand yourself, your partner, and the hidden dynamics that shape human connection.

Grab a coffee (or a notebook), explore what speaks to you, and take what’s useful back into your life and relationships. And if a post sparks a question, or makes you realize you could use more support, I’d love to hear from you.

Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.
~Daniel

P.S.

Feel free to explore the categories below to find past blog posts on the topics that matter most to you. If you’re curious about attachment, navigating conflict, or strengthening intimacy, these archives are a great way to dive deeper into the research and insights that I’ve been sharing for years.

 

What Happy Couples Know Daniel Dashnaw What Happy Couples Know Daniel Dashnaw

Do people really learn from their mistakes?

The Common Belief in Learning from Mistakes

There is a pervasive belief in the power of failure to teach valuable lessons. Business leaders often promote this notion, which is echoed in popular media.

It is a robust American trope.

The idea is that while failure is challenging, it ultimately fuels success.

However, recent research paints a different picture: people generally struggle to learn from their mistakes.

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Extramarital Affairs Daniel Dashnaw Extramarital Affairs Daniel Dashnaw

Micro-Cheating: understanding and navigating the modern infidelity

In the age of social media and constant digital connectivity, the landscape of romantic relationships has evolved, giving rise to a new form of infidelity known as "micro-cheating."

This term refers to seemingly minor actions that suggest a person is emotionally or physically focused on someone outside their relationship.

While these actions may not constitute outright cheating, they can still damage trust and intimacy between partners.

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What does it mean to be Boysober?

"Boysober" is not just a trend; it might be a cultural shift.

Originating from the witty brain of Brooklyn-based comedian Hope Woodard, the term refers to a self-imposed hiatus from romantic and sexual relationships.

This break allows folks to detox from the emotional and psychological hangovers caused by toxic dating patterns and to re-center themselves.

Think of it as a romantic reset button, a chance to turn off the notifications from dating apps and tune into the rhythm of your own life.

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Extramarital Affairs Daniel Dashnaw Extramarital Affairs Daniel Dashnaw

Rebuilding trust after infidelity

Infidelity is one of the most damaging events that can affect a relationship.

Rebuilding trust after infidelity is 3 part process that requires time, effort, and understanding from both parties.

Let’s explore research on this topic, noticing cultural differences and focusing on effective strategies for restoring trust.

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What Happy Couples Know Daniel Dashnaw What Happy Couples Know Daniel Dashnaw

How to talk to your spouse about money without fighting

Money, they say, makes the world go round. But when it comes to discussing finances with your spouse, it can feel more like you’re spinning in circles—or worse, gearing up for a boxing match.

Fear not, gentle reader, for I, your trusty couples therapist, am here to guide you through the treacherous terrain of marital money talks.

With a pinch of humor and a dollop of research-backed advice, you'll be able to navigate these conversations without turning them into arguments. Let's dive in.

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Extramarital Affairs Daniel Dashnaw Extramarital Affairs Daniel Dashnaw

10 Questions to ask your unfaithful spouse

Infidelity can shatter the foundation of a relationship, leaving partners grappling with intense emotions and deep-seated questions.

In this post, we explore ten profound questions to ask your unfaithful spouse, drawing from the wisdom of renowned relationship expert Esther Perel.

These questions are designed to help you understand the betrayal and foster healing, growth, and a renewed connection.

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Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw

High Functioning Autism in Females

High-functioning autism (HFA), often referred to as Asperger's Syndrome, is characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors.

While autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is more commonly diagnosed in males, recent research has highlighted that high-functioning autism in females presents unique symptoms that often go unrecognized, leading to underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis.

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Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw

High-Functioning Autism and Defiance

High-functioning autism (HFA), also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Level 1, encompasses folks with average to above-average intelligence but who face significant challenges in social interactions, communication, and behavior.

Defiance in folks with HFA is a complex issue, influenced by a variety of factors.

Let’s ponder the intricacies of high-functioning autism and defiance, exploring research findings and practical strategies for managing these behaviors.

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