communication

One of my favorite primary care physicians offered all of her patients a hug at each visit. When asked why she said, “Every person deserves a hug each day. They need to know someone cares.” While her method of creating a therapeutic…

Family therapy works to target change within the system that is often the closest to us. While it is helpful across a multitude of presenting concerns, one in particular is families navigating chronic or significant illness. Oftentimes following a life changing diagnosis…

In the journey of healing and personal growth, forgiveness and reconciliation emerge as two intersecting yet distinct paths. Both involve navigating through hurt, betrayal, and conflict, but understanding the nuances between them is crucial.  Forgiveness entails releasing oneself from resentment and anger,…

When you think of abuse in relationships, what comes to mind? For many of us, the first thoughts that show up depict loud, violent, and aggressive words or actions.  Emotional abuse is often a quieter form of abuse that involves tactics such…

“If you’re early, you’re on time. If you’re on time, you’re late. If you’re late, you might as well not even show up.” Most of us have had a statement that we heard from someone growing up that’s stuck with us. Even…

When you were a child, were you enlisted into adult conversations?  When the joys of youth could have been your top concern, were parents or guardians seeking your emotional and intellectual support? Were they involving you in complex discussions of divorce, financial…

We all have those moments when it becomes very difficult to communicate with a loved one. Maybe we’ve had a bad day and are in a terrible mood, maybe it’s a really sensitive subject, or maybe the other person just cannot see…

To the general population, a compliment is recognition of something that we view as positive. However, to individuals with eating disorders (EDs) compliments are much more complicated. Unsolicited compliments are a regular topic of conversation in my sessions with individuals with EDs….

Social distancing creates interesting dilemmas for maintaining healthy relationships.  During this unprecedented time it is important to remain open with your partner as you navigate boundaries around social distancing.  Below are some tips to keep your relationship strong both now and beyond…

You just found out your partner has been having an affair.  You feel hurt, betrayed, angry and several other emotions that you can’t necessarily process at the moment.  You don’t want to end the relationship, but you’re not sure where to begin…