In many relationships, there are individuals who naturally take on the role of pursuers. These individuals have a deep yearning for emotional connection and closeness with their partners. Unlike withdrawers who tend to suppress their needs and emotions, pursuing partners are driven to address relationship issues. They are driven by an internal belief system…
Several years ago, a prominent politician made the comment that he would not eat alone with a woman other than his wife. Some people were offended–claiming that statement and behavior degraded women. Others stated his behavior was archaic. As a marriage therapist, it was curious for me to watch this national conversation unfold. Perhaps I…
Every week I receive several emails asking if I provide online therapy. There are many reasons why online therapy is a good idea. Online therapy allows people who live in small communities to reach specialists who may not live near them. Online therapy allows people the opportunity to work with therapists who specialize in a specific…
It can be scary to come to therapy for the first time. Many people are unsure of what to expect and even how the process of therapy works. In this quick video, I’ll give you some basics of what to expect in therapy for the first time.
Every time we have moved, I have had to go through the process of finding new doctors, new music teachers, new babysitters, and new sports teams. Each one is a stressful and time-consuming process. I don’t want to invest money and time into something I’m not going to be pleased with. The first thing…
When couples start exploring the option of therapy, they are often unaware of the different approaches therapists may use to help them. It’s important to understand that not all couples therapy is created equal. You are looking for deep and lasting change that will help you feel safe and secure in your relationship again. It…
A few years ago, my hip was causing me a lot of pain. I couldn’t identify having specifically done something to initiate the pain, and I couldn’t seem to fix it on my own. I tried stretching, ice, rest, Motrin, but nothing seemed to help. I realized I had exhausted what I could try on…
Marriage experts used to assume that couples fought mostly over what I call “content issues“–the things a couple discusses during a fight, such as money, in-laws, sex, and parenting styles. They believed that if they addressed each individual content issue, they could help the couple improve their relationship. But addressing the content of the fights often didn’t do much…
Marriage therapy, like any form of therapy, may not be an appropriate option in certain situations. While it can be highly beneficial for many couples, there are some instances where it may not be the best course of action. This is specifically true for intensive couples therapy. Here are a few situations where marriage therapy…
Have you read Dr. Sue Johnson’s books Love Sense and Hold Me Tight, but are still looking for a clear and simple understanding of what emotionally focused therapy is about? Then this book is for you! Drs. Brent Bradley and Jim Furrow do an excellent job describing what connection and security in relationships looks…
As the wife of a cancer surgeon, I hear about cancer cases every day. The young father who found colon cancer early and is expected to make a full recovery or the grandmother who is being treated for a tiny lump found during a routine mammogram. I also hear about the patient who has a tumor…
Confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of therapy and is crucial for the client to feel safe in therapy and trust the therapist with intimate details of their lives. When you engage in therapy, it is important to understand that the information you share is generally treated as confidential, and professional and ethical guidelines bind therapists…