The Full-Range Marriage

The Full-Range Marriage

A “happy marriage” is a capitalistic concept. It sells expensive engagement rings and throws lavish weddings. But it sets up a bright-eyed couple for a disappointing and harsh fall that many never rebound. Rather, at best, marriage is secure and satisfying. The...
Use Your Words

Use Your Words

“How come we always talk about her frustrations?” he said yesterday in a couple’s session. “Have you told her you were frustrated?” I asked. He looked dumbfounded. I turned to his wife. “When was the last time he came to you and asked if you were available to talk?...
Emotional Party Trick

Emotional Party Trick

Remember, feelings in the moment coexist with a distinct yet chronic emotional state. In plain English, I can feel hate toward my husband or my child in a given moment. [If you are brave enough to admit such is true!] Those are temporary, fleeting feelings that come...
Be a Burden

Be a Burden

“But, I don’t want to be a burden!” Haven’t I heard that too many times from one partner or another. Hell, I’ve even thought it myself. We don’t want to be a negative energy to someone else. We don’t want to overload, overwhelm or cause undue stress on our loved ones....