One of the most transformative approaches to conflict is leading with compassion. Compassion doesn’t mean avoiding hard conversations or minimizing pain. Instead, it means staying connected to empathy, respect, and curiosity—even when things get messy.

Spring is often seen as a time of joy—buds on branches, longer days, and the promise of warmth returning. But if we look closer, spring isn’t just cheerful renewal. It’s also about struggle, transition, and slow emergence. It’s about things coming back to life—but not without effort.

Trust is the invisible architecture that supports every relationship. When divorce dismantles this structure, many find themselves standing in the rubble, unsure how to begin rebuilding. If you're navigating this challenging terrain, know that you're not alone, and there is a path forward.

Disagreement itself isn't harmful to relationships. In fact, the absence of conflict often signals disengagement or suppressed feelings. The real danger lies in how we express our differences. After helping couples transform destructive patterns into constructive conversations, I've identified key practices that allow partners to disagree without doing damage.

When your partner is grieving, it can be challenging to know how to offer support while navigating your own emotions. With patience, empathy, and open communication, couples can strengthen their bond and maintain connection during such a difficult time.

Social and political disruptions create what we call "collective trauma" — a shared experience of distress that ripples through entire communities. The first step toward healing is recognizing that these emotions are normal and universally experienced.

As we step into this new year, I invite you to experiment with setting intentions rather than resolutions. Consider what qualities you want to cultivate, what energy you want to bring to your relationships, and how you want to show up for yourself and others.

Remember, your relationship is the true gift—more valuable than any wrapped present under the tree. By prioritizing connection, practicing empathy, and approaching the season as a team, couples can transform potential stress into an opportunity for deeper understanding and intimacy.

Thanksgiving, a time traditionally marked by gratitude, family, and feasting, can be a bittersweet experience for those mourning a loss. The juxtaposition of joy and sorrow can be overwhelming, making it difficult to navigate the emotional landscape of the holiday season.

While relationship therapy is often thought of as a space for couples, its benefits for individuals who are single and searching are profound. By understanding yourself more deeply, healing past wounds, building essential relationship skills, and growing your self-worth, you equip yourself for a healthy, fulfilling partnership when the time is right.

In a polarized society, people find themselves on edge, whether because of societal issues, politics, or personal values. In this blog post, I’d like to share some strategies to manage stress, stay grounded, and find a path forward without losing personal peace or connection with others.

Communication is the foundation of any relationship, but it’s not just about what we say. How we listen, and how we respond, matters just as much. In fact, finding the right balance between talking and listening can be the key to deepening intimacy and building lasting trust.

Many people feel like they’re falling behind if they take too long to mourn, or worse, that they’re being a burden if they don’t quickly put on a brave face and soldier on. But the truth is, grief is not a task you can “complete.” It’s a process. A slow, often messy process, that demands we give it space and not rush through it.

Political events, particularly during divisive times like election seasons, can trigger feelings of mourning and anxiety that ripple across communities. This type of grief is often layered with fear for the future and a sense of powerlessness in the face of societal changes. In moments of collective grief, finding ways to heal and rebuild trust in both ourselves and our communities is crucial.

Communication is often called the foundation of a healthy relationship, but effective communication goes beyond simply talking. It’s about being able to listen—really listen—to your partner. When both partners practice active listening, it can lead to greater understanding, fewer misunderstandings, and stronger emotional intimacy.

Political beliefs are deeply personal, shaped by our values, experiences, and identities, which can lead to intense emotions when those beliefs are challenged. Here are some strategies to help you navigate family tensions during an election year while preserving your mental well-being and maintaining healthy relationships.

Money is a common source of conflict in relationships. It’s not just about the amount of money a couple has, but how they manage it together. An issue is whether to have joint or separate bank accounts. This decision can significantly impact the dynamics of a relationship, influencing trust, communication, and financial goals.

Living in Seattle, we’re fortunate to have a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. Embracing these outdoor activities can significantly strengthen relationships. Here’s how you can make the most of Seattle’s great outdoors to enhance your bond with your partner.

The talks of global war and the resulting collective trauma highlight the interconnected nature of our world. By acknowledging the psychological impact of these events and implementing strategies to support mental well-being, we can build a foundation of resilience that will help us weather the storms ahead.

Financial intimacy is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of relationships. It refers to the sharing of financial details, goals, and responsibilities between partners.