Posts by Admin User
Discernment Counseling
Studies have shown that around 30% of couples who are attending couples therapy are what therapists call “mixed agenda couples”, or a couple who is unsure whether or not they want to stay together. One partner may be interested in fixing or maintaining the relationship while the other partner may be ready to leave the…
Read MoreHonesty, it is ALWAYS the Best Policy with Finances
“No your butt doesn’t look big in those pants.” “Your jokes are really funny.” “That dinner was so delicious.” “Of course you could take him in a fight, I would put my money on you.” “These clothes are old; I have had them for months.” “I have no idea where the two hundred dollars went.”…
Read MoreNeeds Versus Wants
Want: to have a desire to possess something or wish for; to lack or be short of something desirable. Need: to require something because it is essential; expressing necessity. These two words are very different to the extent in which something is viewed as necessary or optional. However, in my work as a Certified Financial…
Read MoreManaging Different Communication Styles in Relationships
We all process information differently. Some of us need to talk it out as soon as issues arise, while some of us need a couple of hours or even a couple of days to gather our thoughts before discussing it. A common communication dynamic that I see as a couples therapist are two individuals who…
Read MoreAll We Have is Now
What were you thinking about just now? I would bet that it didn’t have anything to do with what is going on with you right at this moment. I would also bet that it was probably about what you have to do or get done for the day, planning or figuring out something for the…
Read MoreLoving in the Technological Age: Do’s and Don’ts of Happy Relationships
Technology affects romantic connections in ways that feel exciting and stressful at the same time. Digital communication moves fast and often influences emotions before couples realize it. Our daily habits around technology and relationships guide how we stay close, communicate, and support each other. Hence, a thoughtful approach can help couples stay connected with more…
Read MoreMindfulness for Couples
We live in an age of technological distraction, where the primary modes of relaxation and diversion involve staring at a screen. For many, technology serves as an escape from the present, whether through procrastination, avoidance, or denial. This can dramatically limit our time to be present with others and negatively impact our interpersonal relationships. Sure, we…
Read MoreWhen to Start Couples Therapy
A question I will often get is, “When should a couple begin couples therapy?” or, “How do you know when it’s time to get outside help?” While every couple and every relationship is different, getting an expert’s point of view and feedback is always valuable for a relationship. My honest answer is that it is…
Read MoreIt’s Okay to Be Selfish
I feel so selfish if I take time or do something for me. That’s time I should be ____ “ (insert with my children/husband/wife/partner/friends or working/cleaning/running errands, or anything or anyone besides the person themselves). This statement, or something similar, is something that I hear frequently from my clients. There appears to be this negative…
Read MoreCompulsive Buying
Add to cart, add to cart, add to cart, buy, buy, buy, feel a high or sense of relief, go into or deeper into debt, possibly hide the evidence, experience feelings of shame, anxiety, and/or depression, repeat the process over and over and over again. Compulsive buying is characterized by a repetitive need to make…
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