How to Address Relationship Issues and Build Emotional Safety

Blog post cover with text "How to Address Relationship Issues and Build Emotional Safety" with a St. Louis area couples therapist.

Relationships thrive on emotional security, trust, and open communication. Yet even the strongest couples face moments of tension, unspoken concerns, or recurring disagreements. These challenges often stem from deeper, unresolved issues—patterns that, if left unchecked, can further harm the foundation of a relationship. Addressing these underlying problems with intention and care creates stronger relationships and … Read more

Premarital Counseling Isn’t Just for Engagements—It’s for Anyone Choosing Commitment

Premarital Counesling Isn’t Just for Engagements—It’s for Anyone Choosing Commitment

There’s a quiet misconception floating around: That premarital counseling is only for couples who are officially engaged. You know—the ones with the ring, the date, the Pinterest board. #engagementera But here’s the truth:  You don’t need to be wedding planning to benefit from premarital counseling.In fact, you don’t need to be planning a wedding at … Read more

What Actually Happens in Pre-Marital Therapy? Here’s What to Expect in Your Engagement Era

Couple in Premarital Counseling with text "What Actually Happens in Pre-Marital Therapy Here’s What to Expect" in your Engagement Era.

You’ve said yes. Or maybe you’re thinking about saying yes.You’re planning a wedding—or maybe just planning a life together. You love each other. You communicate pretty well. You’ve had a few fights, sure, but nothing alarming. You want to go into marriage with intention—and someone mentioned pre-marital therapy. You’re intrigued. But if you’re honest… you’re … Read more

I Choose You: Sex When Desire Isn’t Equal

Couple embracing with text "I Choose You Sex When Desire Isn't Equal" from a Couples Therapist in West County, MO. Get help for mismatched desire from a St. Charles, MO marriage counselor.

Sexual desire in long-term relationships often fluctuates and sometimes, it feels like you and your partner are simply not on the same page. One of you may want sex more frequently while the other’s interest wanes. This mismatch can create tension, confusion, and even feelings of rejection or guilt. But desire discrepancy doesn’t have to … Read more

Compulsive Spending: The Individual and Relationship Costs

Woman looking into her wallet with text overlay "Compulsive Spending The Individual and Relationship Costs". Couples therapy and marriage counseling in Ballwin, MO and Lake St. Louis, MO.

Compulsive spending, often referred to as compulsive buying disorder or shopping addiction, is a complex behavioral issue that can deeply affect not only the individual but also their closest relationships-especially marriage. When a loved one struggles with uncontrollable urges to spend, the consequences ripple through financial stability, emotional trust, and overall relational health. This blog … Read more

Navigating Religious and Cultural Beliefs in Multicultural Couples: How Therapy Can Help Ballwin, MO Couples Thrive

Multicultural couple with multi-racial kids with text "Navigating Religious and Cultural Beliefs in Multicultural Couples" from a Ballwin, MO therapist for couples and marriages here.

Multicultural couples–partners from different cultural, ethnic, or religious backgrounds—are becoming increasingly common in today’s interconnected world. Multicultural relationships offer a rich tapestry of traditions, values, and perspectives. However, they can also present unique challenges, especially when it comes to navigating religious and cultural beliefs. If you’re part of a multicultural couple living in Ballwin, MO, … Read more

Parenting Young Kids: Unique Marriage Stressors

Mom with kids at a table with text "Parenting Young Kids: Unique Marriage Stressors". Therapy for parents, moms, and families is available in St. Louis and St. Charles County, MO.

Parenting young children is a beautiful, rewarding journey filled with joy, discovery, and love. But it’s also one of the most challenging phases for any couple’s relationship. If you’ve found yourself thinking, “We have young kids and I’m sure a lot of this has to do with that,” you’re not alone. Many parents in Ballwin, … Read more

When Loneliness Strikes in a Relationship: How Couples Can Reconnect and Heal

Couple sitting apart with text "When Loneliness Strikes in a Relationship How Couples Can Reconnect and Heal". Consider couples therapy in St. Louis, MO with a Ballwin marriage counselor or Wentzville couples therapist.

Loneliness is absolutely something to be concerned about right now. Both for people who are single, and also for people in relationships. One experience I’ve heard shared similarly by different people is this feeling of being surrounded by friends, family, & loved ones but still feeling isolated or alone. Specifically when there might be a … Read more

Blending Finances as a Couple: A Real-Life Look at the Emotional Side

Couple discussing finances with text: "Blending Finances as a Couple" from a St. Louis area couples therapist near Wentzville, MO.

If you’ve been running your finances on your own for years, teaming up with your partner and combining finances can feel like a pretty big deal. It’s not just about the money.  It’s about trust, giving up a little independence, and figuring out how to work as a team in a whole new way. This … Read more