Key Takeaways

• Dr. John Gottman’s research identifies four critical predictors of divorce: criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling
• Safety must come first – marriages involving abuse cannot and should not be repaired until the abusive partner commits to change
• Many seemingly hopeless marriages can be saved through emotion-focused therapy when both partners show willingness to reconnect
• The presence of...

Key Takeaways

• Pornography withdrawal can cause both psychological symptoms (anxiety, depression, irritability) and physical symptoms (insomnia, fatigue, headaches), commonly referred to as porn addiction withdrawal symptoms (PAWS).
• The most common porn withdrawal symptoms include intense cravings, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disturbances that typically peak within the first week. Additionally, inc...

If you’re struggling with pornography addiction, you’re not alone in wondering how long the road to recovery might be. The journey to break free from compulsive pornography use is deeply personal, but understanding what to expect can provide hope and direction during what may feel like an overwhelming time.

Recovery from porn addiction is absolutely possible with proper commitment, support, and professiona...

What if I told you that the people who seem the most controlling are often the ones who feel the most out of control on the inside? This paradox is a profound truth frequently encountered in couple’s counseling. That constant need your spouse might have to check who you’re texting, manage your schedule, or question your spending—it’s almost never really about you. Instead, it’s a coping mechanism, a flawed attempt to manage a storm...

Disclosing an affair is one of the most critical and challenging conversations a husband can have with his wife. When mishandled, this revelation will certainly extend the healing process and possibly could mean the end of the marriage. However, for those who genuinely want to save their relationship and show as much care to their betrayed partner as possible, there are ways to approach this conversation with clarity, care, and res...

For centuries, female sexuality has been misunderstood, wrapped in myths that have been presented as truth. From assumptions that a woman’s sex drive diminishes after kids or is inherently lower than a man’s, to beliefs about what visually stimulates women, or that a “perfect body” is essential for great sex, these ideas often create unnecessary challenges in relationships. As licensed counselors, we’r...

Cultural scripts and traditional myths often oversimplify male desire, shrinking it into a single, physical dimension. But the reality is far more complex and beautiful. What if your understanding of male desire is only part of the picture?

Consider these real-life scenarios:

• A paramedic is drawn to a nurse, not because of her looks, but her strength and compassion under pressure.
• A husband of...

If you’ve ever found yourself caught in a frustrating cycle of trying to quit pornography—which can take many forms, including images, videos, and artwork—only to relapse days or weeks later, you’re not alone. Many people experience this pattern, often feeling like it’s a lack of willpower. In fact, many individuals are actually addicted and recognizing it as such is crucial for effective porn addiction recovery and relapse prevent...

What if the struggles you face today are actually signs of childhood trauma you never knew you had? When we think of trauma, we often picture extreme events. But it’s possible that the persistent big emotions, the relentless perfectionism, or the constant people-pleasing you’ve experienced for years are actually signs of something deeper rooted in your past.

Do you find yourself repeatedly involved with people who leave you feeling drained, confused, or questioning yourself? Have you ever wondered, “Why do I keep attracting toxic people?” If so, you’re not alone.

This question often places the blame squarely on your shoulders, leading to significant self-blame and shame, especially if y...

The discovery of a partner’s betrayal can instantly shatter your world, leaving you reeling with shock, disbelief, and profound pain. This isn’t an exaggeration; it’s a deep psychological impact that can trigger an “existential crisis,” questioning trust, shared reality, and even your own self-worth. This guide offers immediate, trauma-informed “lifelines” to help you navigate these overwhe...

Infidelity vs. Sex Addiction: Navigating Betrayal and Paths to Healing