Do you ever say yes when you really want to say no? Do you feel responsible for other people’s emotions, even at the expense of your own well-being?

The truth is, when it comes to love, conflict, and connection, objective reality doesn’t matter nearly as much as how each person experiences the situation.

Have you ever felt like you’re in a relationship with someone who shuts down, lashes out, or avoids difficult conversations? Or maybe you’ve noticed these patterns in yourself.

Have you ever felt like your relationship is stuck on repeat—having the same argument over and over with no resolution? It’s like your own version of Groundhog Day.

The new year often brings with it a mix of emotions—hope for a fresh start, pressure to set resolutions, and for many couples, an unwelcome sense of strain in their relationship.

The holiday season carries a promise of joy and togetherness, yet for many couples, it can be a time of heightened tension and disconnection.

As a couples therapist, I’m often asked to help individuals and couples understand whether staying in a relationship is right for them, and it’s a question that carries immense emotional weight.

This month, let’s go a step further into the heart of the question by reflecting on some core insights that can help clarify your path forward.

Deciding to leave a relationship can be one of the most heart-wrenching decisions you’ll ever face. It often involves conflicting feelings, hopes for change, and the fear of the unknown.

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to hear our partners without truly listening to them. But active listening is more than just letting words wash over us—it’s a powerful tool that can deepen connection and strengthen relationships.

In the rollercoaster of relationships, emotions can sometimes get the best of us. A small misunderstanding can trigger a big reaction, leaving both partners feeling hurt and confused.

Becoming parents is a monumental milestone, one that brings immense joy and fulfillment. However, this transition can also challenge the dynamics of your relationship.

As a relationship therapist, I've seen countless couples struggle with a communication pattern known as "kitchen sinking." This term describes the tendency for partners to bring up a litany of past grievances and unrelated issues during an argument.

Have you ever wondered why you react a certain way in relationships? Or why some interactions with partners or even dates seem loaded with more emotion than you'd expect?

Ever heard a friend say, "My partner could have sex every day—it’s just too much for me"? Or maybe you've felt something like, "Why don't I ever feel like having sex? Is something wrong with me?" You’re not alone.

In the fast-paced rhythm of life, we often focus on external achievements and relationships. Yet, one of the most profound journeys you can embark on is the journey within—through self-reflection.

Have you ever heard the phrase "just speak your mind"? In our journey through relationships, we're often told that honesty is the best policy.

In the world of couples' therapy, especially within the framework of Relational Life Therapy, there's a common misconception that floats around: "If you're thinking it, you should be saying it."

In this blog post, I’ll explore what it means to be caught in the 'Being Right' cycle and how it can damage your connection with your partner.

Terry Real, the founder of Relational Life Therapy, offers five winning relationship strategies and highlights a crucial shift: moving from complaint to request.