The world of family therapy has gotten a serious upgrade—or maybe a download—thanks to the rise of online communication tools.

Now, instead of gathering in a cozy office, families can hash out their issues in the comfort of their own homes, possibly still in their pajamas.

But making the switch from face-to-face sessions to virtual therapy isn’t just a matter of logging on and hoping for the best.

It takes a bit of finesse (and maybe a sense of humor) to keep things running smoothly.

Let’s dive into the best practices for online family therapy, with a few laughs along the way, and some real-deal social science research to back it all up.

Family therapy has long been an evolving field, shaped by the need to address the complex dynamics that exist within family systems.

As therapists grappled with the challenge of facilitating meaningful change, it became increasingly clear that traditional talk therapy, while valuable, often fell short of addressing the multifaceted interactions within a family.

The incorporation of family therapy activities marked a significant turning point in the field, offering a more holistic approach to healing and transformation.

High school: a time for acne, awkward dances, and, of course, that one relationship you’re sure will last forever.

But let's face it—between math tests and proposals, high school relationships can be as fleeting as a Snapchat streak.

So, what percentage of high school relationships actually make it past graduation?

Buckle up for some surprising stats and solid social science research as we delve into the reality of young love.

Long-distance relationships (LDRs) present a unique set of challenges that can test even the strongest bonds.

However, the notion that distance is inherently detrimental to a relationship is increasingly being challenged by social science research.

In this deep dive, we'll explore the critical factors that make long-distance relationships not just viable but potentially even stronger than geographically close relationships.

Let’s examine the underlying psychological and relational dynamics in play that inform how couples can develop strategies that turn distance into an advantage.

In a world where our attention spans rival those of goldfish, cultivating mindfulness in relationships is not just a good idea—it’s essential.

Mindfulness, the practice of being present and fully engaged in the moment, can profoundly impact the quality of our relationships.

By intentionally applying mindfulness to our interactions, we can foster deeper connections, reduce conflicts, and create a stronger foundation for long-term satisfaction.

The concept of a "soft start-up" has become essential for fostering positive interactions and preventing conflicts from spiraling out of control.

Popularized by Dr. John Gottman, a soft start-up involves initiating a conversation in a non-confrontational, gentle manner, which sets the stage for a constructive dialogue.

Despite its well-documented benefits, many folks tell science-based couples therapists that they find it difficult to consistently use a soft start-up, particularly with their life partners.

Why is a soft start-up so hard?

To answer this question, we need to explore the psychological dynamics at play in close relationships, the role of stress, and the importance of emotional regulation and mindfulness.

The comfort zone paradox: why do we save our worst for our best?

Welcome to the future, where your biggest relationship threat might not be another person but an AI that knows your partner's favorite song, their grocery list, and—let’s be honest—more about your partner’s mood swings than you do.

Yes, I’m talking about the subtle yet sneaky influence of AI on emotional intimacy in relationships.

As a science-based couples therapist, I’ve seen it all, but the idea of AI becoming a side chick in relationships? Now that’s something new.

If you’ve ever found yourself in a family dynamic where one parent seems to command all the attention, praise, and emotional energy—often at the expense of everyone else—you might be living in a Golden Parent and Inverted Family Pyramid situation.

Imagine a circus act where the spotlight shines on one performer, while the rest of the family strains under the weight of holding them up, with their own needs and identities crushed beneath the pressure.

Spoiler alert: this show doesn’t end well for anyone involved.

One of the most intense and challenging experiences I’ve seen is what’s known as narcissistic collapse.

This term describes a severe emotional breakdown that can occur when a narcissist’s grandiose self-image is shattered.

The concept of narcissistic collapse is crucial for understanding the emotional turmoil that follows when the carefully constructed façade of a narcissist begins to crumble.

In the realm of couples therapy, empathy is often touted as a cornerstone of healthy relationships.

The ability to understand and share the feelings of another is crucial for intimacy, communication, and conflict resolution.

However, when empathy is taken to the extreme—when it becomes boundless—it can lead to self-destruction.

Empathy Without Boundaries is Self-Destruction.

This phenomenon, often termed "empathic overextension," is not just a theoretical concept but a real and pressing issue that can undermine both individual well-being and relational health.

Middle adulthood, often referred to as the "Sandwich Generation," describes a period in life where folks are simultaneously caring for their aging parents while supporting their own children.

This dual responsibility can create significant stress and strain, as these adults are metaphorically "sandwiched" between the needs of two generations.

This phase typically occurs during the ages of 40 to 65, a time when many people are at the peak of their careers and are dealing with the challenges of maintaining their own health and well-being.

Many Hollywood women have debunked the myth that being alone equates to loneliness through their lives and public statements.

These women have embraced solitude as a time for self-discovery, empowerment, and fulfillment, showing that independence can be a source of strength rather than a sign of deficiency.

Why is human intimacy so profoundly disappointing?