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How Can We Make Rational Decisions In Uncertain Times?

November 27, 2020
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In today’s world, the level of uncertainty seems higher than ever. With the ongoing global pandemic, wildfires, hurricanes, an unstable economy and a pivotal upcoming election, it can be hard to focus on the mundane tasks of our everyday lives. Despite the world feeling upside down, we’re still expected to continue working, cultivating healthy lifestyles and engaging with family and friends. A question coming up more and more frequently, both personally and professionally, is “is it possible…

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How Do We Use Pity Against Ourselves?

November 24, 2020
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Steven Topper LCPC When we’re young, we learn how to gain attention. It is the currency of childhood. Vying for the affection and care of our parents, our peers, our teachers, is not only normal, but it’s also necessary. Through this, we learn connection, communication, and compassion. And often this doesn’t stop after high school. We may often see loved ones working really hard to gain the attention of the people in their world, to mixed results.…

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After the Affair: Rebuilding Trust

June 22, 2020
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Hannah Hopper, LPC How do you rebuild trust after an affair takes place? Is it even possible? Is it right to stay in a relationship after there’s been an affair? There are so many questions in the wake of unfaithfulness, and not all of the answers will come at once. But one thing is for sure; if both partners decide to stay in the relationship, rebuilding trust and learning to love again is a very slow process.…

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Divided Americans and Couples Therapy: Reducing Conflict within Relationships, Pt. 1

June 18, 2020
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Bridgette W. Gottwald, LPC, NCC When it comes to politics, friends, relatives and strangers are consistently shouting at each other as opposed to engaging in discussions. Emotionally charged exchanges seem to be more of the norm these days “in venues ranging from local governments to national ruling bodies across the world.” Sometimes you may be reminded of a struggling marriage when you witness these shout-fests. Couples therapists would agree and utilize many interventions that have scientifically proven…

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The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse: A Lesson in Unhealthy Communication Styles

June 8, 2020
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Kyle Lawell, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) It’s safe to say that nearly all couples have arguments at some point in their relationship. We may argue about whose in-laws we’re going to see for the holidays, who took out the garbage last week, or what color we should paint the kitchen. In the best-case scenario, these arguments are resolved in an adaptive, healthy, and respectful manner between the two partners. Other times, however, these arguments are filled with…

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It’s Us and We, Not You and Me

June 6, 2020
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Kyle Lawell, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Relationships, even the best ones, can be difficult. We often make sacrifices in our lives to make our partners happy. We might change our work schedule so we can pick up the kids after school or agree to take on more responsibility with the newborn so that our spouse can go back to work. In these times of need, it is crucial that people within a relationship remember that they are…

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Why You Should Cook with Your Partner

May 30, 2020
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The heart of a relationship is often found in the small, everyday choices. Some couples schedule date nights or weekend getaways, but a real connection can also grow in the kitchen. Cooking together may not sound as exciting as a vacation or a night out, yet it can create laughter, spark attraction, and bring partners closer in unexpected ways. Exploring the benefits of cooking with your partner can reveal how simple routines can become powerful opportunities to…

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Trust and Commitment Within a Relationship

May 18, 2020
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John and Julie Gottman, known somewhat as the leaders in the couples’ therapy world, created a book consisting of eight dates essential for every couple to have. Each date is a different topic consisting of varying questions for both self-exploration and conversation starters. Each topic of conversation is crucial for the continued development of a healthy relationship. Regardless of what stage of a relationship you’re in, whether you’ve been married for 30 years or recently began dating,…

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What To Do If You Think Your Partner Is Cheating

April 6, 2020
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It is often a terrible gut-wrenching feeling when you start suspecting your significant other might be cheating on you. Maybe there was an unexplained situation that put you on high alert or possibly a comment from him/her/them or a friend that made you start suspecting. Whatever the situation might be, it is often discouraging, saddening, and isolating. Here are some suggestions to try and navigate the situation.  Consider what you are feeling.  You are the expert of…

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Healthy Ways to Move Forward While Going Through a Breakup

March 23, 2020
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It’s no secret that going through a breakup feels terrible no matter which side you’re on. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most universal experiences humans encounter throughout their lifespan. If going through a breakup seems inevitable at some point, it’s important to understand the healthiest ways to begin to move forward when this stressful time occurs. Transitioning from being in a relationship to being single can be an uncomfortable change as individuals in your life will…

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