Relationships Archives
We often hear that you should never discuss money or religion in conversation. It is too personal and feelings can easily become hurt. When you and your partner are planning to get married, however, these are just a few of the difficult conversations you absolutely must have. Couples often dismiss or avoid discussing important topics, only to have them appear within their marriage in ways that can erode positivity and invite conflict, anger, and resentment. The conversations…
Are you being smart in your relationship? A successful romantic relationship does not just happen by chance, and happy couples are not just lucky people. A successful relationship is built when a couple approaches their partnership in an intelligent way. Below are 14 things that smart couples do. How does your relationship measure up? 1. They communicate well. Smart couples talk openly and with respect and listen actively and with real interest. 2. They are intentional. Smart…
Originally published, by request, for the membership dating website razzou.com. Dr. Anne Malec is a contributing writer for Razzou, her articles focus on romantic relationships, dating guidance and resolving conflict between couples. This submission was requested to focus on the dynamic of a female/male dating relationship, however the context holds true for various types of romantic relationships. How do you know that you want to be exclusive with the guy you have been dating? Is it just…
Deciding to go to couples therapy can feel like a big decision. Oftentimes, what keeps people from entering couples therapy are their preconceived notions of what it will be like. You may fear that you will be told you are the cause of your relationship problems. Perhaps you worry that you will have to commit to years of therapy for it to work. Of course, therapy is different for everyone, and there are many kinds of couples…
What comes to mind when you hear the word “rich”? Do you picture stacks of money, sparkling jewelry, and fast cars? Are you envisioning lavish vacations and expensive meals? Of course, being financially wealthy is one way that someone can be rich, but there is also the richness that exists in our every day life and in the joy of a meaningful relationship. In couples therapy, you and your partner can begin to build skills and explore…
What does a strong, healthy relationship look like? For many of us, the fantasy is that a strong relationship means that there is absolutely no conflict; that the partners agree with and are satisfied about every part of the other person. In reality, of course, conflict between partners is a normal and inevitable component of a healthy relationship. Never discussing the issues in your relationship can actually serve to intensify your problems rather than make them go…
Are you listening? A frequent common denominator among my clients is partners being surprised by the depth of the other’s unhappiness. I often here the following exchange from clients: “Why didn’t you tell me how unhappy you were”? “I did, I told you repeatedly, and also suggested that we go to couples counseling”. A partner’s request to go to couples counseling should be seen and heard as a warning sign, an emergency about the health of the…
If your partner….. Mentions that they never see you anymore Tries to engage you in conversation more frequently than normal Suggests a weekend getaway Tells you they feel like you never talk anymore Plans new and adventurous activities for the two of you Complains that you are “always” working, reading, or on your computer …..They may be feeling emotionally disconnected. Don’t miss the signals. Most relationships have their inherent challenges. We all bring different expectations, values, perspectives,…
The process of divorce is emotionally and financially draining, often taking years to reach resolution. There is a better way: mediation allows the formers partners to control the process and the outcome.
For many couples, the decision to seek couples counseling is a tough one. Too often one spouse is resistant to bring their problems to a professional. Sometimes, if the marriage is highly strained and conflict-ridden a sense of hopelessness and resentment can run deep, causing partners to feel as though nothing or no one will be able to help them. If a couple is experiencing any of these thoughts or feelings, the time is right to seek…