Summer can be a joyful time. The pool is open, the days are long, and the sunshine makes it easier to spend time outside and soak up the season. But summer can also bring a quiet kind of discomfort. It can shine a light on what feels missing. I often hear a version of this … Read more
If you’ve been following along in this series, you already understand how Gottman’s Four Horsemen—criticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling—show up in adult relationships and how damaging they can be over time. But there’s an important piece many couples overlook: these patterns didn’t appear out of nowhere. In most cases, the way you handle conflict today … Read more
Conflict is a natural part of any close relationship. However, how couples navigate these conflicts often determines the health and longevity of their bond. Dr. John Gottman, a leading researcher and therapist in the field of relationships, identified four particularly destructive communication patterns that predict relationship breakdown with startling accuracy. He named these the “Four … Read more
You might not be shouting it from the rooftops. But maybe you’ve whispered it in the quiet of your mind. “I don’t want to lose my marriage.” Maybe you’ve felt the drift for a while. The conversations that feel more like transactions. The silence after an argument that stretches for hours—or days. The heaviness of … Read more
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
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
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
“My partner and I have a conflict on the timeline of pregnancy.” When you and your partner face a disagreement about the timing of pregnancy—or any other major life milestone—it can feel overwhelming. These conversations often touch on deeply personal values, dreams, and fears, making them complex and emotionally charged. If you’re navigating this type … Read more
The holiday season isn’t just about decking the halls and wrapping gifts—it kicks off well before Christmas, starting with Halloween’s spooky fun and rolling into Thanksgiving’s feast. And let’s not forget, in a city like St. Louis, there are plenty of local events and traditions to consider, from Boo at the Zoo to the Polar … Read more
Infidelity can shatter the foundation of trust and intimacy in a relationship, leaving both partners grappling with a whirlwind of emotions and psychological challenges. As a St. Louis couples therapist serving the communities of West County, including Ballwin, Chesterfield, and Frontenac, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact infidelity can have on mental health. This betrayal … Read more