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.
Most of us are not well-trained to be in romantic relationships. Couples therapy is essential for some in bridging the gap to better connect in these critical relationships. And often, this means skill-building in ways…
Heartbreak doesn’t just feel emotional – it can literally affect your physical health. Whether you’re going through a divorce, breakup, or loss of a loved one, the pain can seem unbearable. But what if your…
Let’s be honest—when we think about what motivates people, we tend to focus on things like getting ahead, falling in love, staying healthy, or protecting ourselves. But researchers around the world are discovering something surprising:…
Unraveling the intricacies of human motivation has long been a fascination in the realm of social science research. Surprisingly, recent studies have spotlighted an unexpected primary motivator: family. Across cultures and continents, the bedrock of…
What is Sleep Divorce? A “sleep divorce” is when a couple lives together but does not sleep in the same bed. We have a cultural expectation about the proxemics of sleep in marriage. “Sleeping together”…
If you’re standing at the edge of a relationship wondering whether it’s worth saving, let’s get honest. Sometimes the answer is no. If you already know you don’t want to stay, and you’re child-free and…
Setting boundaries in marriage is important, especially the ones you set for yourself. While you can’t control what your spouse does, you can control how you respond and what you’re willing to accept. These personal…
Let’s discuss something fascinating in relationships—the dance of power and influence between couples. I’ve noticed a pattern repeatedly: wives often step up to have tough conversations, while husbands might try to avoid them. You know…
It’s possible to feel lonely in a relationship that “works.” Real intimacy isn’t automatic—it’s built, moment by moment, in the small choices to show up, listen, and be known. Let’s explore what real intimacy looks…
The landscape of modern marriage is transforming before our eyes, and Millennials are leading this remarkable change. While previous generations often viewed marriage as a natural next step in life’s progression, today’s young couples are…
Dr. John Gottman’s 30+ years of research have consistently focused on what happy couples do differently than couples who unhappily struggle. He used to call these couples the “Masters of Marriage.” Now, (I imagine in…
When couples come to therapy, they often ask if fighting means their marriage is in trouble. The research tells us something surprising: conflict itself isn’t the problem – it’s how we handle it that matters….
Because love isn’t blind—it’s brave enough to look. So you’re thinking about forever. Maybe there’s a ring. Maybe just a shared Netflix account and a lot of hope. Either way, you’re wondering: Is this the…
I have people-centric jobs, yet fight to spend time with people. I am a counselor, pastor, chaplain, and teacher chained to a computer much of the day. And it’s not optional. There are daily, weekly…
Digital micro-cheating can silently erode marriage boundaries. Through five real-world scenarios, discover how seemingly innocent online interactions can damage relationships and learn practical strategies to protect your marriage in the digital age. I want to…
A common question in our field is: “what predicts marital satisfaction?” It has been carefully researched and analyzed. One of the most comprehensive and fruitful longitudinal studies of its kind was conducted by CTI’s own Dr. Scott Wolfe….
If you or your partner were abused as children, you may already be feeling the fallout—but not fully understanding its source. Trauma doesn’t just haunt the past. It walks into the marriage with you, often…
We’ve all been there. Your partner says something simple—maybe even reasonable—and suddenly you’re hot with indignation, ready to defend your honor like a medieval knight. The problem? You’re not under attack. Not really. But defensiveness…
My wife is very critical of my family. She is especially mean to my mother–openly criticizing her to other people and behaving quite rudely when my parents come to visit. I am the first to…
As parents navigate marital challenges, the impact on their children often becomes a pressing concern. Research shows that specific patterns in parental relationships can significantly affect children’s emotional development and future relationships. Understanding these key…
Apologizing to your spouse means admitting your mistakes and understanding how they have affected your partner. A sincere apology must show empathy and compassion and express genuine remorse for hurting their feelings. Avoid justifying or…
Why Couple Time Gets Lost in Parenthood Finding meaningful time with your partner while parenting can feel like chasing a mirage—just when you think you’ve found a moment, someone needs a snack, a ride, or…
Views on conflict typically break down into two distinct attitudes. Termed as “The Two Babies,” these attitudes encapsulate the stark contrast between an approach open to growth and change and another steeped in defensiveness and…
This article explores why family mealtimes matter and how to make them work in today’s busy world. You’ll learn about the proven benefits of eating together, from better grades to stronger family bonds, and get…
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