One way to understand relationships in couple therapy is through the idea of “marital interaction,” a concept described by Stanley Ruszczynski. He encourages us to look beyond what is said on the surface in a relationship, and to pay attention … Continue reading
Intimacy is the sense of closeness that develops and deepens within a relationship. It includes several interconnected layers—emotional intimacy (sharing feelings and vulnerabilities), experiential intimacy (spending meaningful time together), and physical intimacy (including affectionate touch and sexual connection). Each of … Continue reading
Exploring the different ways we communicate can shed light on why we sometimes struggle to express ourselves or connect with others. Our patterns of communication are often learned very early, shaped by family environments where feelings may not have been … Continue reading
One of the central ideas I work with in therapy is the concept of “differentiation.” At its heart, differentiation is about holding onto your own sense of self, even while staying emotionally close to those you care about. It means … Continue reading
This pattern often originates from early life experiences. When a person grows up feeling judged, criticised, or like they do not belong, they can develop powerful coping mechanisms to protect themselves from further emotional pain, such as shame or humiliation. … Continue reading
The idea of the “creative couple” is one I find meaningful in my work with partners. Mary Morgan, a Tavistock relationship therapist, describes a creative couple as two people who see their relationship as something that can grow, adapt, and … Continue reading
We use the term repairs to talk about attempts to restore harmony and connection in a relationship when their has been some kind of rupture. Repairs include apologies and other gestures which indicate the attempt to move out of and … Continue reading
In this audiobook, Loch Kelly offers very clear instructions for taking your mindfulness practice deeper. He emphasizes that he’s not referring to instant mindfulness when he uses the term effortless mindfulness but rather a practice that can bring you into … Continue reading
I have recently listened to the audiobook version of Esther Perel’s ‘The state of affairs’. I found it offers a compassionate, insightful, and balanced look at this all too painful situation that affects many couples. Her concern for helping all … Continue reading
Besides projecting things onto other people, we can be on the receiving end of their projections. When we take time to stop and reflect on our responses to other people’s projections, it can be illuminating. For example, you say something … Continue reading
