In Part 4 of Building Bridges, Not Walls: Navigating Conflict in Relationships, we’ll explore how couples can replace detrimental communication patterns with deep, meaningful connections. Read more
Part 1 of this series explored common conflict patterns in relationships, particularly the “attack-withdraw” cycle. In this pattern, one partner confronts an issue while the other withdraws or placates to get the heat off. Vulnerability is needed to break down emotional walls and build stronger connections. In Part 2 here, you’ll discover why you get so upset during conflicts. You’ll learn strategies to re-center and connect with your Authentic Wise Self. Using Internal Family Systems, you’ll increase your ability to communicate adeptly because you’ll be more self-aware. These are the first steps in effective conflict management.
A Virtual Communication Skills for Couples Workshop Read more
Learning how to foster a fulfilling relationship is important whether you are married or single. The information I am going to share can be applied to any relationship: marriage, dating, cohabitating, friendship, siblings, parent-child, or a work relationship. Read more
I’m writing to men here. But if you are a woman who is married, dating or engaged, you’ll probably want to read this, too. Give him a gentle nudge to read it. Read more
Whether it’s with your spouse or your mother, if you don’t already experience an emotionally secure connection, even little conflicts can damage the relationship. Read more
That’s one of the first questions people ask me when they call about marriage counseling.
The answer is: It depends. Can you both answer ‘yes’ to these questions? Read more
Most people don’t realize that Couples Counseling is one of the most challenging specialties in our counseling industry. That’s why many therapists don’t offer it.
Let’s consider this analogy. If you developed a heart condition, you would begin with a visit to your primary care physician who is a generalist. But you would not receive all the help you need there. You would need to see a cardiologist who has years of advanced training in heart conditions. Read more
Key Concept: Vulnerability + Authenticity => Safety + Intimacy
Introduction
Many of us feel uncomfortable with conflict. In fact, some of us hate conflict. We try to avoid it and hope it goes away. We’re like an ostrich sticking our head in the sand. We like to think “time heals” but more often than not, emotions intensify, and then there’s one incident that breaks the camel’s back. We distance from the one we love most, or we get critical, defensive or contemptuous. Either way (distancing or attacking) hurts. Read more
Q: What’s the success rate of your Couples Counseling programs?
I use two proven research-based Couple Therapy programs: Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Couple Therapy Method. Research proves these approaches help couples build (or rebuild) the bonds of love and connection. 70-75% of couples move from distress to recovery and approximately 90% show significant improvements. Read more
