Paul and Kim talked about how snarky they were being with each other the last couple of weeks. When I inquired what was going on,...
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.
Turn Here! Slow Down!
Driving is a classic topic in couples therapy since it evokes power and control issues. Commands such as “Turn here,” “Park here,” “Go this way”...
The Tarp
Cynthia was feeling stressed. Between work, kids and maintaining the home, there was never enough time. Her partner Ron sensed her strain and decided to...
The Commander
Justin and Michelle were going away for the weekend. Justin insisted on returning to a particular restaurant, saying “I am going to ….” I pointed...
Starting to Get It
Mary came to the first session by herself questioning whether to continue her relationship with Sean. She checked out of the marriage years ago. Sean...
Precious Moments
Sarah recently buried her husband. David was terminally ill for a number of years and Sarah felt fortunate to prepare for his death. They were...
Just Go On a Date
In my first session with couples, I ask them about their prior experiences with marriage counseling. I want to learn what was previously helpful and...
Give Me A Hug
When Pam and Rick started working with me, they had been separated for several months. Pam wanted support and validation from Rick, but she would...
Critical Feedback
Steve didn’t like how his wife Kate was dealing with their teenage son in the morning. Tommy was reluctant to get up for school in...
Conversation Stoppers
Sam travels a lot. Fortunately he gets paid well for his job, but the three nights a week away, and sometimes stretching to four, puts...
A Vulnerable Moment
Steve was planning on flying to the funeral of a friend’s mother. As a former marine, he was stationed in the South. His closest friend’s...
You’re Staring
Rob and Kaitlyn were pleased they addressed a trust issue since our last meeting. Rob told Kaitlyn that she was staring at one of his...