When we fall in love with our spouses or partners, we never imagine that someday the honeymoon phase might end. We want to believe those Hollywood romantic comedies that make us believe we will “live happily ever after.” The truth is, all couples have their fair share of ups and downs. That’s natural. Healthy relationships […]

One of the biggest myths about couples counseling is that it’s only for relationships that are on the brink of breaking up and is considered a last resort. Some couples feel like it spells doom for the relationship if they are at the point where they are even considering counseling. However, couples counseling actually works […]

The holidays are a time of year when our focus shifts to showing love to the important people in our lives. However, this gift-giving time of year can be fraught with anxiety, often because of the high expectations around finding the “perfect gift” for our loved ones. Dr. Gary Chapman’s theory of “The Five Love […]

We are all dealing with unexpected and emotionally draining challenges as we learn to cope with the changes that COVID-19 has brought into our lives. In many ways, crisis brings us together and forces us to rely on one another in new ways. However, conflict and frustration are also to be expected as we try […]

Have Yourself a Mindful Holiday Season Emily Short Steiner, LMFT Once the calendar flips to November and December, we are told over and over again that it is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year. However, work stress, busy social schedules, financial strain, and longer hours of darkness are a combination that […]

By Emily Short Steiner, LMFT Scheduling and attending your first couples therapy appointment creates a high level of anxiety for many people. Couples often feel a deep sense of shame surrounding their challenges. Many people I work with fear that the therapist will declare them the “bad guy” of the relationship. Many people also worry […]