Couples Counseling

This question comes up constantly in couples therapy. Parents want things to feel fair, balanced, and equal. On paper, 50/50 parenting sounds like the ideal we should all be striving for. But in real life, it's rarely that neat and equal.

Loving someone with bipolar disorder, or living with it yourself, can be deeply rewarding. It can also bring unique challenges. Mood swings, communication breakdowns, and emotional intensity can test even the strongest relationships.

People engage in emotional affairs for a variety of reasons. While there is never an excuse to cheat on a romantic partner, it’s essential to understand that these affairs aren’t always due to relationship issues or some kind of dissatisfaction.

Most people would probably say that infidelity in a relationship is wrong. However, it’s more common than you might think, whether you’re married or not.

There are many factors that contribute to a healthy relationship, and all of them are important. But, at the very core of any strong partnership is an understanding of your own wants and needs.

Couples therapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. In fact, some couples are hesitant to try it for a variety of reasons. They might worry about bias with the therapist. They might fear the therapist only hearing or understanding one side of the conversation.

Attachments are developed very early on in life. The first attachments you form as a child are with your parents or caregivers. Ideally, those are secure attachments that allow you to feel safe, loved, and cared for. 

Gestalt therapy is a collaborative experience designed to help couples focus on awareness within their relationship. In doing so, they can recognize any underlying and unresolved issues that could be causing trouble. 

Having realistic expectations for your relationship is important. You might not end up with the Hallmark-style partnership you see on the screen, but there are things you can do in your everyday behaviors to improve your relationship. 

Breakups can be complicated, messy, and even hurtful for both people involved. No one gets into a relationship expecting it to end. But, if you and your partner have realized it’s time to go your separate ways, you don’t necessarily have to go the traditional route.