Differences don’t need to be problematic in relationships, since all relationships have differences. The issue is how couples manage these differences. Ideally, couples have respectful...
Relationship Resources Blog
Each day my life is enriched by listening to and guiding couples as they bring their raw experiences to sessions and we try to make sense of difficult times. Through these blog posts, I hope to give readers a snapshot of our work including examples of the real issues that people bring, and how we can find meaning and a path out together. Their identities are protected, but each experience is real. Because relationships are complex, my role is to help couples share their experiences while providing a conceptual road map to understand their experiences, finding a way out of the woods of painful experiences. This blog shares stories and concepts; I hope it provides hope, insight and richness to each reader’s own journey.
Measured Response
The husband of one of my couples talked about having a measured response. This was a great description of what individuals try to achieve in...
Damaged?
Phil told me that he and Elyse had a damaged relationship. At home, the language was inflammatory, and conversations were futile. In couples counseling, they...
The Best I Can
As Tom and Andrea discussed their struggles, Tom said, “I’m doing the best I can.” I told Tom that the statement suggests he cannot do...
Profound Impact
Avery talked about a turning point in their relationship after she revealed to Dom that she was in a low place in her life. Since...
Tell Me Your Thoughts
“Tell me your thoughts” is a nice statement for couples to add to their repertoire. It represents interest and curiosity in your partner and encourages...
Lack of Execution
In my first meeting with Sherry and Luke, Sherry said she was ready to leave the relationship. She doubted their communication and ability to function...
Translations
In couples counseling, couples primarily talk directly to each other. However, sometimes, an individual wants to express something to their partner but doesn’t know how...
Without Imposing
Derek and Janine were struggling in their relationship. Tension was high, and they were disconnected. We discussed how they could express their opinions without imposing...
I Want to Flee
One of my clients says their partner wants to address issues, and they want to flee. They become overwhelmed and don’t trust that they and...
Wellness Checks
As couples progress in counseling, it’s not unusual for them to have wellness checks. This is when they move from counseling every other week to...
Trickled Truth
Caroline had an encounter with a co-worker and disclosed it to her partner. Weeks later, she shared that it wasn’t an encounter but an ongoing...