Why has it become such a buzz phrase? Are there really that many undiagnosed narcissists today? Narcissistic Personality Disorder or NPD is a one of several types of personality disorders. It is a mental condition in which people have an inflated sense of self, of their own importance; they have a deep need for excessive attention and admiration and they …
3 Tips on Supporting Partner with Anxiety/Depression
Ah, it seems you have fallen in love. Everything is wonderful and right with the world. The beginning of your relationship was fun and exciting, but now you’re getting to really know each other and that comes with some challenges. You realize your partner is anxious, maybe even depressed. If you have never experienced this yourself, dealing with a loved …
Social Media and Relationships
With the news of Gabby Petito’s death, it has become notorious the impact of social media on couples. We often see couples come into our office with idealistic visions of what their relationship should look like. For example, newlyweds sometimes seek counseling sessions fearing that their relationship is doomed, problematic, and unfixable with very solvable marital matters, such as repeated …
How to Compromise in Relationships
Have you ever been stuck between two different decisions or two different opinions between you and your partner? Can you recall debating over date night in or date night out? Dinner or a Movie? In self-help books, magazines, and blogs online, the main rule of thumb for relationships appears always to be “compromise.” We are taught that happiness in a …
Knowing the VALUE of RESPECT in every relationship
“Without respect, relationships are lost, and if someone can’t value your difference, and respect your values and beliefs, then they don’t deserve a front-row seat in your life.” – Riya Raj People have a different opinions about what the word “R_E_S_P_E_C_T” means. Often, it is referred to as the difference between the level of authority, such as with our parents, …
A Relationship is not just about SEX.
“Couples who schedule a time to connect with each other have healthier, happier relationships.” – Chris Kraft, Ph.D. Sex is an integral part of life and overall well-being. Aside from reproduction, sex can be about intimacy and pleasure. It has many health benefits and strengthens the bond between couples. Sex helps initiate a romantic relationship but it is not everything to …
What is the most Toxic Communication Pattern?
Toxic communication patterns have the capacity to cause tremendous damage to our relationships — whether they be with our families, partners, friends, or co-workers — to the point where they can even end the relationship altogether. Collectively studied and labeled as “The Four Horsemen”, by Dr. John Gottman, these negative communication patterns consist of criticism, defensiveness, contempt and stonewalling, and …
Apologizing in a Relationship: Why is it important and how do I do it?
Apologizing isn’t just saying “I’m sorry” it’s also feeling, emotion, and action. Here are some expert tips to keep in your back pocket for the next time you’re apologizing to your partner. Apologizing can be a difficult thing for many people to do; often times it takes setting your pride to the side to admit you were at fault. With …
15 Warning Signs your Marriage is Failing
A marriage usually comes with its challenge, and almost every couple will confess that they have had a share of their problems at one point in their union. The most common arguments among couples are money, neglect by one of the partners, parenting, relationship with in-laws, and sometimes infidelity. When the satisfaction of the relationship is declining, it is common …
Political Debates & Marriages: How to do it right
And here we are again! Political campaigns are invading our news feeds, as well as ads on television. 2020 has come with a swing, and I dare to say that this election is a very heated one that is impacting everyone individually, but couples as well. In the past few elections, divorces around political differences have spiked, and this election …