Every relationship is built on something. In this section, we explore what creates long-term strength: shared values, friendship, trust, rituals of connection, and emotional repair. Whether you’re early in marriage or long into partnership, these insights help you revisit — and reinforce — what matters most.
Have you ever noticed how we only call plumbers when there’s a crisis? The toilet is overflowing, the shower won’t drain, or worse—sewage is backing up into your beautiful home. By that point, it’s too…
When you thought it couldn’t get this bad… 1. You Deserve to Be Happy When people are in individual therapy, and they share their marital unhappiness, they are sometimes told: “You deserve to be happy…”…
When we deal with betrayal, couples often want to know, “Which gender is more loyal in a relationship?” I understand the desire for a simple answer—we all want predictability in matters of the heart. But…
You want to connect with your wife, but the words feel stuck somewhere between your heart and your mouth. As a clinical psychologist, I’ve sat with countless men who share this exact struggle. Let’s talk…
Originally published November 14, 2017. Re-written February 7, 2025 Becoming a parent is one of life’s most profound transformations – a journey that reshapes not just your daily routines but the very foundation of your…
Everyone experiences anger, but how you express it can make or break your relationship. Research by relationship expert Dr. John Gottman reveals that anger itself isn’t what predicts relationship failure—it’s how couples handle their angry…
Money is often called the leading cause of divorce, but that’s not entirely accurate. It’s not just about the dollars and cents – it’s about what money represents in our relationships: trust, security, power, and…
Interested in this new-fangled AI technology, I thought I’d ask ChatGPT a (very loaded) question: “What are dumb cultural messages that contribute to unrealistic expectations of marriage?” I was surprised by how spot on it…
Every family has their holiday battles. Here’s how I learned to survive them – and eventually understand what they really mean. The Great Temperature Wars Let me tell you about the Christmas that ended my…
Originally published Dec 8, 2020. Updated Dec 21, 2025 Ah, the holidays – that magical time of year filled with twinkling lights, festive cheer…and the potential for relationship disaster if your marriage is on the…
As a couples therapist and dog owner, I often hear this question from clients. Those cute faces, cuddles, and adorable yawns – I mean, your spouse may be pretty cute, but how can they compete…
Originally published Jan 13, 2017Updated Dec 23, 2024 The holiday season brings twinkling lights, festive music, and cherished traditions – but for many couples, it also ushers in a unique set of challenges that can…
Dear Dr. K, I really like the idea of working intensively, but my partner has ADHD; I’m concerned that he wouldn’t be able to stay focused for an entire weekend and that shorter, weekly sessions…
Last week, Stephanie sat in my office during her intensive individual meeting, tears streaming down her face as she described her husband’s reaction to her recent promotion opportunity. “He didn’t say ‘don’t take it,’” she…
Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of blended families, spotlighting stepmothers. We’re about to challenge some long-held myths and explore eye-opening research. The Stepmother Stereotype: Time for a Reality Check Let’s face it: stepmothers…
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