Note: All names and the characters are fictitious but resemble similar interactions that real couples have. During Breakfast JORDAN (frustrated), “When my father passed away, you hugged me once and then never discussed his passing again. Every Time I brought it up, you changed the topic. You don’t care.” TAYLOR reacts (dismissive and defensive), “What […]
One Core Tenant of Secure Relationships: A Safe Haven Read More »
Embracing a peaceful coexistence is the heart of a relationship where partners are inclined to navigate challenging or distressing situations through avoidance, withdrawing from each other, physically and/or emotionally. Meet Olivia and Owen, a same-sex couple of mixed cultural backgrounds in their thirties. Olivia works as a freelance artist, while Owen is a writer known
The Avoid-Avoid Dance in Relationships: Closing the Distance Read More »
Meet Sarah and Alex – a young, multicultural couple in their late twenties who recently moved to Seattle, WA seeking new opportunities. Sarah, a software engineer, and Alex, a marketing specialist, were excited about this fresh chapter in their lives. Today, they were planning a weekend getaway to celebrate their anniversary. However, when they started
Cracking the Negative Protest-Withdraw Pattern: A Journey to Deeper Connection Read More »
Escalating conflict involves partners who tend to seek connection and validation with strategies that are challenging and confrontational, rather than vulnerable. Why do we do this? Because our attachment system adapts to use the best strategies, (we know of), to get our needs met. Early in life, we learned that vulnerability or directly asking for
Connecting Through Confrontation: Fighting to Be Heard Pattern Read More »
Emotional security is at the heart of every thriving relationship. However, it is not something that comes naturally or effortlessly. Building emotional security requires conscious effort and intentionality from both partners. When one turns to their significant other seeking comfort and support, but finds them unresponsive, feelings of loneliness, fear, hurt, or anger can emerge.
Understanding Attachment Distress: Nurturing Emotional Security in Relationships Read More »
Understanding your partner’s dreams is a powerful way to make them feel known and seen. Note: All names and the characters are fictitious but resemble similar interactions that real couples have. In the 1-minute clip above, Dr. John Gottman shares advice he gave to a romantic partner to improve their marriage in just 30 seconds.
The Secure Base: Empowering Growth in Your Relationship & Nurturing Dreams Read More »
I want to explore a topic that holds deep significance in our hearts—the two essential attachment questions that shape the essence of our relationship. “Am I enough?” “Can I depend on my partner when I need them?” Doubts regarding our own lovability and worthiness are painful, just as uncertainty about the dependability and responsiveness of
2 Essential Questions We Ask In Our Romantic Relationships Read More »
Couples therapy can be a transformative experience, providing an opportunity for partners to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their bond. But participating in couples therapy is more than just physically showing up to the session. Success is significantly influenced by the effort and commitment of each partner. To make the most out of your
11 Tips to Make Couples Therapy Effective Read More »
Researchers in the field of romantic relationships know that the best intervention is prevention. This means that the earlier you get support, the better. Research indicates that couples wait on average 2.5 years to get help with relationship challenges. [1] Every couple goes through ups and downs. It’s normal to experience conflict and disagreements, but
Is it Time to Talk? Seven Clear Signs Your Relationship Needs Couples Therapy in Seattle Read More »
Folks who have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) often have issues around: Obesity Hair growth on face, chest Acne Infertility Irregular menstrual cycles Male pattern baldness and more… These issues can be difficult to manage. Many folks with PCOS tell me that they eat correctly and work out but always struggle with weight. Folks also have shared with
Coping with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Read More »
