Couples

Let’s face it. In some circles, couples counseling has had a bad rap. Some believe that it is not worthwhile and rarely leads to a positive outcome. Others may have heard of someone who didn’t have a good experience. Couples counseling skeptics, who end up giving it a shot anyway, will unfortunately face the cruel […]

Dr. John Gottman, researcher and cofounder of the Gottman Institute, has found through his research that most couples are unhappy for years before addressing their relationship issues. This long delay is not only harmful to the relationship, in many cases it can seriously jeopardize its survival as well. Longstanding problems, mixed with years of resentment,

An interesting study recently conducted by the University of Rochester, and discussed in The New York Times, found that “sappy relationship movies made in Hollywood can actually help strengthen relationships in the real world.” This finding came as a surprise even to the researchers, especially since their intended purpose was to evaluate two different types

The short and fairly obvious answer to this question is: Yes, they can; but there are lots of potential traps and pitfalls. What is a Long Distance Relationship? A long-distance relationship typically means living far enough apart that the couple maintains separate residences. The frequency that long-distance couples are able to see each other can

While the rewards and joys of parenthood can be immensely satisfying and deeply meaningful, those who cling to an unrealistic and romanticized vision of having a child may be set up for a very rude awakening. Having a baby, especially that first baby, not only turns any parent’s world upside down, but it also causes

Unfortunately, depression is very common – ten percent of adults in the United States are struggling with some level of depression at any given time, according to recent statistics. That means even if only one-quarter of depressed adults are in a relationship, a high percentage of people are affected one way or another. Which Came

The very short answer would be to start having lots of sex! It’s not that easy. According to Newsweek magazine, 15 to 20% of all marriages in America are considered “sexless.” What exactly is a sexless marriage? What Is a Sexless Marriage? A sexless marriage may not literally equate to zero sex, but it is

As a marriage counselor, when I see a couples for the first time, I frequently observe how each partner tries to show the other (and me) that they’re in the right on a particular issue and their partner is wrong. When this happens, I am quick to point out that when couples are focused on

Perhaps one of the trickiest challenges to navigate in marriage involves the extended family. Laying the ground work for good relationship foundations should ideally begin even before a couple announces their engagement and intention to live happily ever after. Starting off on the right foot with the in-laws, from the first introduction, can help prevent

Before you send that “we’re history” text or click “send” on that equally short blunt email, stop and think again. (Assuming you gave it any thought in the first place.) Even if you never want to see or have anything to do with this person again, remember that he or she is not only a