Communication

Can You Be as Considerate as a Rattlesnake?

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Imagine you are leisurely walking through the woods thoroughly enjoying the perfect weather and the serenity of nature. Then you are jolted into a salvo of fear – by

What Really Drives Connection?

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We often say that healthy communication is the cornerstone of a great relationship, but is it? Neuroscience has helped us evaluate what really drives connection in relationship.

Relief or Happiness – What Do You Choose?

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I work with a lot of couples where one partner takes great pride in being a problem solver. I, too, am a big believer in solving problems.

Surprising marriage lesson from a palm tree climber – it’s not pruning

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I am writing from Hawaii, Ellyn’s and my favorite place to reorganize, reprioritize, and regenerate. I was walking back to our unit and stopped to watch a

What Is Your Love Language?

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Has it ever dawned on you that your partner may not experience love the same way you do? If you have been together a while, you may

Hello Undifferentiated Self

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In the Bader-Pearson Developmental Model of Couples therapy, you may hear about differentiation. But what is it? This blog post includes the poem, “Undifferentiated Self,” which touches

Pete’s Interview – Stages of Relationships – Triggers

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Thanks for your interest in my recent interview on NPR. I hope you get some valuable insights for your relationship regarding: The stages of a relationship or

The Cookie Jar Marriage

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The cookie jar is an interesting concept. It’s so much more than a storage container! It’s where kids head for an immediate snack when feeling down or