The Dangers of Self-Sacrificing in Relationships
Close relationships require sacrifice. Research has shown that couples are happier and more likely to remain in their relationships if …
Relationship Issues
The Shape of Our Identity
Why Our Family of Origin Matters Family dynamics are complex, shaped not only by individual personalities but also by the …
Resentment & Grudges
Their Differences and How to Manage Them “When you own something and really square up to your culpability, I do …
A Picture’s Worth a Thousand Words
Family Fun and Missed Expectations Summertime often includes family beach vacations, road trips, and family reunions. They can be the …
I Get By With a Little Help From My Friends
Do you ever feel so overwhelmed by life tasks that you do not know how you will make it to …
Codependency
(Part 2) What were you taught about your humanity? As we continue the conversation on codependency, I invite you to …
Shifting Focus
Navigating Personal Challenges During the Holidays For many, the holiday season is a magnificent time of wonder and reflection. For …
Navigating Family Stress During the Holidays
The holiday season can be an enjoyable time of togetherness and celebration. Families who have moved away might be able …
Stop Fighting Against Your Spouse
Start Fighting for Them! We all know that marriage is a journey, but sometimes, it feels more like a boxing …
Overcoming Emotional Detachment
What is Emotional Detachment? Emotional Detachment is a state of being unable to fully experience and engage with one’s own …
Forgiveness and Empathy
My job brings me face-to-face with people deeply wounded by those who should have kept them safe. Whether a parent …
When Your Spouse Won’t Get Help
I’m sure that most of us in a committed relationship have thought to ourselves at some point that our spouse …
The Nature of Trauma and How To Heal, Part 2
What is the process of healing from trauma? In this article, I will answer this frequently asked question and provide …
What is Spiritual Bypass?
Spiritual bypass is a way of using spiritual practices and beliefs to avoid dealing with unresolved psychological issues. We often forget …
Mental Health Awareness Month
In 1949 the National Association of Mental Health, now called Mental Health America, declared May Mental Health Awareness Month. It …
Calming to Reconnect
How Calming the Body Reconnects Our Words “Traumatic events are almost impossible to put into words.” – Dr. Bessel van …
Codependency
(Part One) Does healing from codependency really matter? I recently had a conversation with a friend surrounding this topic, and …
Is an ADHD Spouse Challenging Your Marriage?
Part 1 Discovering new things about your spouse is one of the most exciting things about getting married. You learn …
Putting Thoughts on Trial
“Of course that happened! I’m not good enough, remember?!” “I messed this family time up again, like always!” “Don’t answer …
Reparenting Yourself
Healing from Childhood Wounds so you can Parent in a Healthy Way What does reparenting mean? Often a person did …