As a marriage and family therapist with a deep interest in how life transitions impact family dynamics, I find the recent research on motherhood and brain changes particularly fascinating.

The breaking study published in Scientific Reports by Rotondi et al. (2024) adds a compelling layer to our understanding of how the experience of motherhood goes beyond emotional shifts, actually transforming the brain in ways that could protect against age-related decline.

Sexual performance anxiety is like that uninvited guest who shows up at the worst possible time.

It’s something many of us have faced, yet its impact on relationships often remains unspoken.

But here’s the thing: sexual performance anxiety isn’t just a “men’s issue,” and it’s not something we should sweep under the rug.

So, let’s explore what sexual performance anxiety really means, how it plays out differently for men and women, and most importantly, what we can do to keep it from hijacking our love lives.

Attachment plays a fundamental role in our emotional well-being, influencing how we navigate relationships and cope with life’s ups and downs.

When it comes to the bond between fathers and their children, especially during those crucial adolescent years, the quality of that connection can have lasting effects on mental health.

In the chaotic world of parenting, we often focus on showing appreciation—whether it’s thanking your spouse for doing the dishes or giving your kids a high five for not turning the living room into a disaster zone.

But have you ever stopped to think about how much being appreciated in return matters?

A new study published in The Journal of Positive Psychology suggests that feeling valued by your family isn’t just a nice bonus—it’s a game changer for your mental health and overall family happiness.

Taylor Swift, one of the most influential figures in contemporary music, has emerged not just as a pop sensation but also as a powerful voice in the ongoing conversation about body image and disordered eating.

Her openness about these struggles is influencing millions of fans, particularly young women, in ways that are both inspiring and complex.

In the field of couples therapy, resilience is often the cornerstone of a thriving relationship. It’s the ability to navigate conflicts, adapt to changes, and support one another through life’s inevitable challenges.

Recent research from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) has illuminated a fascinating and previously underexplored aspect of resilience: the gut-brain connection.

This emerging body of research suggests that our gut health not only influences our physical well-being but also plays a critical role in our psychological resilience—a key factor in the success and longevity of relationships.

The article “Symbiosexuality: New Study Validates Attraction to Established Couples as a Real Phenomenon” by Eric W. Dolan presents the findings of a study conducted by Sally W. Johnston, which explores a concept referred to as “symbiosexuality.”

The study proposes that some folks experience attraction not just to individuals, but to the dynamic energy between people in a relationship.

While the research claims to break new ground in understanding human desire, a closer examination reveals several weaknesses in its conceptual framework, methodology, and broader implications.

Divorce is rarely straightforward, but when it involves a covert narcissist, the emotional fallout can be especially disorienting.

Covert narcissists are adept at subtle manipulation, often leaving their partners questioning their own reality long after the relationship has ended.

In this post, we explore a fictional therapy journey with John, a husband who was abruptly discarded by his covert narcissist wife, Emily.

Through their sessions, we’ll uncover the unspoken apologies John craves but will likely never receive, and how understanding this reality can aid in his healing process.

The question of whether a family member deserves to know the truth about a terminal prognosis, especially when the remaining time is expected to be of low quality, presents a profound ethical and emotional dilemma.

This issue is particularly complex within the context of couples therapy, where the relational dynamics between partners can deeply influence the decision to disclose or withhold such information.

The debate over bed-sharing with infants is as old as parenting itself. Should you let your baby sleep in your bed, or is it better to keep them in their crib?

Concerns range from safety issues like Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) to fears about long-term emotional and behavioral problems.

But what does the research actually say? Is bed-sharing a nurturing practice, or are you setting your baby up for emotional turmoil?

Let’s explore the science behind bed-sharing and its impact on your child’s development.

Ever wondered what makes some kids the talk of the playground while others blend into the background?

Is it their trendy sneakers, impressive jungle gym skills, or perhaps their uncanny ability to memorize every dinosaur name?

According to recent research, the real magic ingredient is much simpler and way more enjoyable—being fun!

In the digital age, the accessibility of pornography has skyrocketed, making it essential for mental health professionals to understand its potential impact on individuals and relationships.

While some people use pornography without adverse effects, others may develop problematic patterns that can disrupt their daily lives, relationships, and mental health.

To help identify when pornography consumption becomes problematic, researchers have developed the Problematic Pornography Consumption Scale (PPCS).