Three Practical Steps to Reconnect and Realign In Part 1 of this series, we explored what can happen when one partner has gone through a season of personal growth — and the other hasn’t. It’s more common than you might think, especially in long-term...
Navigating the Emotional Gap with Curiosity and Compassion It’s a situation I see often in couples counseling: one partner embarks on a journey of personal growth — through therapy, spiritual practice, a career shift, or a big life transition — and the other...
Summer has a way of getting away from us, doesn’t it? One minute we’re talking about warmer weather, and the next thing we know, school is starting again and the chaos of fall is creeping in. That’s why now is the perfect time to plan — not just for vacations...
In the first post of this series, we explored the importance of accepting influence in relationships. Now let’s look at how this principle can completely shift the way we experience conflict with our partner. When couples seek out couples counseling,...
In my work with couples, one theme that comes up again and again is the importance of accepting influence from one another. This idea, drawn from the Gottman Institute’s extensive research on what makes relationships thrive, is one of the strongest...
Spring often brings a sense of renewal — but when you’re facing economic stress, it can also cast a heavy shadow. Groceries cost more, gas strains the budget, and planning a summer getaway might feel out of reach. Still, even in financially uncertain...
As the days get longer and the sun starts peeking out more often, many of us find ourselves dreaming of summer. Vacations, weekends at the coast, backyard BBQs — it’s a season that holds so much potential for joy, rest, and reconnection. But here’s the...
I’m back this week with the third and final installment of our series on EMDR. If this form of therapy is new to you, start here. Last week, we explored what EMDR looks like in a session. Today, we’re talking about what it could mean for you and your partner if...
Last week, we kicked off a three-part series on a form of therapy called EMDR (read more about that here), and you might have some questions. If EMDR sounds a little mysterious, you’re not alone! Many clients come to me curious — and maybe even a bit...
If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in a painful pattern or reacting to current situations in ways that feel bigger than the moment calls for, you’re not alone. For many people, these patterns are the echoes of past trauma that never got the chance...
Recovering from an affair is one of the most challenging journeys a couple can face. Over the past few weeks, we’ve explored the key stages of affair recovery using The Gottman Institute’s Trust Revival Method: Atonement, Attunement, and Attachment. Each step...
Today, we’re wrapping up a four-part series on affair recovery. We’ve discussed the first two stages of The Gottman’s Trust Revival Method: Atonement and Attunement. The final stage, Attachment, is just as critical as the first two. Let’s jump in. The...
Over the last couple of weeks, we’ve been tackling a difficult subject: affair recovery. We learned how betrayal shakes the foundation of a relationship, but healing is possible. Last week, we explored what the Gottmans say is the essential starting point for...
In my last blog post, we dove into a tough subject: affair recovery. We learned how betrayal shakes the foundation of a relationship, but healing is possible. Today, we’re taking a closer look at what the Gottmans say is the essential starting point for...
Infidelity is one of the most painful breaches of trust in a relationship. Whether it’s a physical affair, an emotional connection with someone outside the partnership, or even financial secrecy, betrayal shakes the foundation of what you once believed to be...
As we look ahead to March, we’re met with contrasting symbols: the ominous Ides of March and the hopeful charm of St. Patrick’s Day. In a time when our nation feels so divided, it’s easy to focus on the gloom. However, shifting our perspective...
Valentine’s Day is often loaded with high expectations — grand gestures, romantic moments, and picture-perfect celebrations. But what happens when things don’t go as planned? Maybe you forgot to make a reservation, got the wrong gift, or simply missed the mark...
Valentine’s Day is often framed as a holiday for couples, but love isn’t just about romance. It exists in so many forms — in friendships, family bonds, and the deep connections that bring meaning to our lives. If you’re feeling disconnected from the traditional...
Valentine’s Day is one of those holidays that can feel wonderful for a select few — and really complicated for everyone else. If you’re in the early, blissful stages of love, it’s magical. If you and your partner have a solid understanding of how to celebrate,...
Valentine’s Day can be a source of joy — or stress — for couples. Over the years, Eric and I have experienced both. We’ve had our share of Valentine’s Days where mismatched expectations or a lack of planning led to disappointment. If you want to make this...
