BLOG
- Attachment Issues
- Coronavirus
- Couples Therapy
- Extramarital Affairs
- Family Life and Parenting
- How to Fight Fair
- Inlaws and Extended Families
- Intercultural Relationships
- Marriage and Mental Health
- Married Life & Intimate Relationships
- Neurodiverse Couples
- Separation & Divorce
- Signs of Trouble
- Social Media and Relationships
- What Happy Couples Know
Why Healthy Disagreements Matter
Couples that argue but don't break up often evoke clinical curiosity.
Contrary to the myth of the perfect relationship, where harmony is constant, healthy disagreements can strengthen bonds.
This post explores the importance of conflict in relationships, how to argue constructively, and the role of repair attempts in maintaining a strong, resilient partnership.
We will consider the mechanics of relationship conflict, constructive arguing, repair attempts, relationship resilience, and best practices for communication in relationships.
A Surprising emotion to quell bad habits
As a couples therapist, I often explore the dynamics of emotions and how they impact our behaviors and relationships.
Interestingly, recent research has unveiled a potent emotional tool for beating bad habits: gratitude.
This finding, while initially surprising, offers valuable insights into how we can approach addiction and habit formation from a fresh perspective.
The Role of Technology in Work-Life Balance
In our fast-paced, digitally connected world, technology has seamlessly woven itself into every aspect of our lives.
Smartphones, emails, and other digital tools have revolutionized how we work and communicate.
While this connectivity brings numerous benefits, it also blurs the lines between work and personal time, creating a significant challenge for couples striving to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
As a science-based couples therapist, I’ve observed how this digital intrusion can strain relationships and undermine quality time together.
Let's explore the impact of technology on work-life balance and suggest ways couples can establish tech-free zones to enhance their connection.
Working Mothers vs. Stay-at-Home Moms
The debate between working mothers and stay-at-home moms is a complex and enduring one, shaped by personal choices, societal norms, and economic realities.
This post discusses various aspects such as the impact on child development, work-life balance, evolving gender roles, economic implications, and differing parenting styles.
By exploring the latest social science research, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the implications for both mothers and their families.
This post will also offer my opinions on the nuanced nature of this debate. I’m advocating for support systems that benefit all mothers regardless of their employment status.
4 Apocalypse-Tested Stop Doomscrolling Apps
In our hyperconnected world, staying informed is important, but it can easily spiral into doomscrolling—an endless consumption of negative news that leaves you feeling anxious and overwhelmed.
Breaking this cycle is essential for mental well-being. \
Here are 4 curated apps, backed by research and user feedback, that can help you curb doomscrolling and reclaim your peace of mind.
Doomscrolling with the Anti-Christ
Ah, doomscrolling. If you've ever found yourself lying in bed, glued to your phone, mindlessly scrolling through an endless stream of bad news, congratulations!
You’re part of a growing club of doomscrollers.
But here’s the kicker: it's not just your sleep that's taking a hit. Your relationship might be suffering too. Let’s dive into the grim world of doomscrolling and explore how it's quietly sabotaging your love life.
Navigating Relationship Anxiety: Insights from Reddit
Relationship anxiety can feel like a relentless cloud casting shadows over even the sunniest moments in a relationship.
From the persistent fear of abandonment to the incessant need for reassurance, it affects countless folks striving for connection and intimacy.
To understand the nuances of this common issue, we’ll turn to Reddit, a platform where many share their raw, unfiltered experiences and advice.
Here, we’ll delve into the insights and contributions of Reddit users to shed light on relationship anxiety and offer practical solutions.
Am I the narcissist, or is he?
Daniel: Good afternoon, BetteSue. How are you feeling today?
BetteSue: (sighs) Confused, Daniel. I’ve been thinking a lot about our last session, and I'm starting to wonder, am I the narcissist, or is he?
Daniel: That's a profound question, BetteSue. What experiences have led you to ask that?
BetteSue: (sips her coffee) Well, let me start with last week. We were supposed to have dinner with my sister and her new fiancé. I was running late because of a hair appointment. Henry, my husband, waited for me, but when we finally arrived, he was sulking. He barely spoke during dinner and made these passive-aggressive comments about my lateness.
Am I the Narcissist? How to assess your own self-absorbed behavior
In an era where self-reflection and mental health awareness are increasingly prominent, many people find themselves questioning their own behaviors and motivations.
One of the most common yet complex relational questions that arise is, "Am I the narcissist?"
This inquiry often stems from introspection or feedback from others.
To address this question, it's essential to understand the characteristics of narcissism, how they manifest in one's behavior, and the modern context of living as a narcissism-informed narcissist.
Am I in a Situationship Quiz
Welcome to my little "Am I in a Situationship Quiz"!
We’re here to help you decode your relationship status with a sprinkle of humor and a dose of honesty.
Grab a pen, get comfy, and let's find out where you and your "almost partner" stand!
Quiz Time!
Situationship vs. Relationship: navigating the transition
In today's fast-paced dating world, the term "situationship" has become a popular buzzword.
But what exactly is a situationship, and how does it differ from a traditional relationship?
This article dives deep into the nuances of both, exploring how individuals transition from one to the other, with insights from real people on Reddit.
We'll look at the green go factors that encourage moving forward and the red stop factors that often halt progress.
Situationship vs. Friends with Benefits: navigating modern relationship labels
In today's ever-evolving dating landscape, labels can be more confusing than assembling IKEA furniture without instructions.
Among the trendy terms are "situationship" and "friends with benefits" (FWB).
While both concepts can appear similar, there are some notable differences. Let's explore these with a touch of humor, a dash of compassion, and some authentic online quotes to spice things up.