Escalation is a core problem in many relationships. If a person starts a conversation with a negative comment, the likelihood of a partner responding negatively...
Archive for category: Relationship Counseling
Home » Relationship Counseling » Page 21
15.032016January 3, 2016
We Need to Talk
By Dr. Richard ReinIn Couples Therapy, Relationship CounselingTags Criticism, Escalation, Processing
Robert dreaded when Diane said, “We need to talk.” He knew the conversation was likely to escalate. She criticized him, he then defended himself, and...
16.022016January 3, 2016
Listen, Support, and Validate
Sue was emotional these days. Her father’s memory was beginning to fail him and she was feeling distressed. When she began to share her upset...
09.022016January 3, 2016
Liberace Glasses
By Dr. Richard ReinIn Couples Therapy, Relationship CounselingTags Communication, Curious, Escalation, Self-Conscious
Bruce and Cindy were vacationing in Palm Springs and walked into an eyeglass store. Bruce saw a pair of Maybach glasses for $14,000. He called...
05.012016January 3, 2016
Artillery and Bombs
Relationships can become battlefields. Criticism is launched horizontally. A partner intentionally or unintentionally attacks. When one is attacked, the recipient defends him or herself, and...
15.122015May 31, 2016
What Can I Do?
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,...
08.122015December 22, 2016
Turn Here! Slow Down!
By Dr. Richard ReinIn Couples Therapy, Relationship CounselingTags Control, Driving, Fear, Power, Respect
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”...
01.122015January 3, 2016
The Tarp
By Dr. Richard ReinIn Couples Therapy, Relationship CounselingTags Defensiveness, Escalation, Judgement
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...
17.112015January 3, 2016
Starting to Get It
By Dr. Richard ReinIn Marriage Counseling, Relationship CounselingTags Listening, Present Tense, Responsiveness
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...
10.112015January 3, 2016
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...