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.
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…
I’ve seen my fair share of heated arguments and emotional meltdowns. They seem impossible to slow down or stop. But what if I told you that the key to calming down after a marital spat might be…
Last week in my office, a client broke down while describing the emotional neglect in her marriage. “Everything looks perfect on paper,” she said. “We don’t fight, we share the chores, we parent well together….
The Sleep-Relationship Connection In my years as a relationship counselor, I’ve witnessed many couples grappling with problems seemingly unconnected to their sleep habits. Yet, one of several recent studies has pointed to an intriguing link…
As a clinical psychologist specializing in couples therapy, I often see partners struggling with the balance between intimacy and independence. A fascinating new study by Hughes et al. (2024) sheds light on how our attachment…
Dear Dr. K, We are 3 months before the wedding. How do I deal with a soon to be spouse who can’t make marriage decisions before and has no excitement because he is super emotionally…
by Sierra Kehoe Are you struggling with parenting conflicts in your relationship? You’re not alone. Many couples find that raising children together can strain their partnership. Approaches to discipline can vary, as can parenting priorities….
For generations, masculinity was measured by distance: stoicism, strength, silence. A “good man” was one who worked hard, didn’t complain, and provided—often at the cost of emotional presence. But something is shifting. And if you’re…
Dr. Doug Burford examines the balance for healthy relationships, building on Abraham Maslow’s view that “self-transcendence” eclipses self-actualization. Burford argues marriages thrive through mutual sacrifice and other-centered love, avoiding selfishness and enmeshment. The optimal relationship…
In the flurry of Mother’s Day celebrations, it’s easy to lose sight of the deeper meaning behind honoring motherhood. Beyond the flowers, cards, and breakfast in bed lies a complex web of expectations, responsibilities, and…
Conflict is inevitable in any relationship, and how couples handle it can make or break their marriage. While it may seem counterintuitive, research by psychologist John Gottman suggests that avoiding conflict and maintaining a constantly…
“People can help you in many ways throughout life, but there are two things nobody can give you: curiosity and drive. They must be self-supplied. If you are not interested and curious, all the information…
When it comes to sustaining a happy, long-term romantic relationship, many factors come into play—mutual respect, shared values, open communication, and, of course, love and attraction. But one area that often gets overlooked, despite being…
In the midst of life’s daily stresses and challenges, it’s easy for romantic partners to forget the power of laughter, especially within their intimate relationship. Humor, when shared between partners, can be a transformative force,…
When it comes to age gaps in marriage, love may be blind to birthdays, but relationships with substantial age differences face unique challenges. As a clinical psychologist, I’ve seen firsthand how these couples must navigate…
Every relationship has its ups and downs, but one key factor that can make or break a partnership is communication. And while we often focus on what we say and how we say it, the…
As a clinical psychologist, I often work with couples navigating the complexities of in-law relationships. It can be tough but important to set boundaries with in-laws to keep a good relationship with your partner. By…
Empathy, the ability to understand and share another’s feelings, is a crucial skill in any relationship, especially in marriage. As a clinical psychologist, I have witnessed firsthand how empathy can make or break a couple’s…
Picture Nancy, a woman in her 60s who has spent her life putting others first. As a wife, mother, and grandmother, she’s always been the caregiver everyone turns to for help. However, as much as…
Stress is an inevitable part of life, and it can significantly affect our relationships. Whether it’s financial strain, health issues, or parenting challenges, stress can lead to tension, conflict, and emotional distress in couples and…
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