Our current reality is undoubtedly challenging in one way or another. Thank you, 2020 for pushing our limits... and our buttons. It can be mentally and emotionally exhausting to read or listen to the news on a regular basis, and more so if you tend to obsess. With so many news outlets at our fingertips, it’s easy to spend hours on end in the rabbit hole. That’s why we talk about limiting your news intake – to help protect your mental and emotional health. Find out what you need to know, but don’t bury yourself in it.

The Four Horsemen in Communication Explained

he Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse is a metaphor describing the end of times in the New Testament. Relationship experts, Drs. John and Julie Gottman, use this metaphor to describe communication styles that often predict the end of a relationship. Through four decades of research, working with more than 3,000 couples, the Gottmans have also created a series of antidotes to battle the four horsemen.

If Your Wedding is Postponed Due to COVID, then Consider Couples Counseling

I have given 2020 many names, but my latest is “a year of reflection.” We have found ways to navigate what originally seemed like impossible circumstances. We have dealt with overwhelming emotions and goals that were not forecasted in our New Year’s resolutions. While it is important to grieve the loss of so many experiences that were unable to continue, it is also helpful to use this time as an opportunity to reflect and grow.

Mom, I Think I’m Gay… Sexual Identity Development for LGBTQ Teens and How Parents Can Help

When you look back on your teenage years, do you have memories of confidence, fun, happiness, and connection? Yes? Well lucky you! For most, the teenage years are a pretty rough time riddled with conflict and shame. There is always conflict with parents who are trying to do their best, with friends who are doing whatever it takes to survive, and within our inner selves as we begin the journey of figuring out who we are and what this life is really all about.

Play Therapy and Child Mental Health

Has your child ever sat down on the couch to discuss their feelings and concerns with you? Most likely, the answer is no. Many children do not have the verbal capability to do so, however, children can communicate their concerns and feelings through play. Play is a child’s language. Children can learn and develop through play, but children can express themselves and relieve anxiety and stress as well.

Is it the COVID Blues or Depression? Signs you May Need Depression Treatment

There’s a funny quote going around social media that states something like: “We are all doing the best we can'“ is my response to just about everything these day... Whether you told me you chugged a bottle of wine, had cereal for dinner, robbed a bank, or skipped a shower…” I

August Position of the Month: Steamy Stretch: From Our Certified Sex Therapist

With COVID-19 cases still surging in several states and the Houston area, you and your partner are likely still spending a great deal of one on one time together! Here’s to trying out our highlighted position of the month, in order to help ease the stress of quarantine. The two of you might feel more comfortable following the recommendations that have been posted for Sex and the Coronavirus Pandemic (found here). If you or your partner are not feeling well, you might consider delaying sexually engagement.

Life S.A.V.E.R.S.

Hal Elrod is the creator of the Miracle Morning, a practice he developed to take control of his life one day at a time. Elrod is no stranger to struggle. He has survived a near-fatal auto accident complete with a year-long recovery and crippling financial loss, twice. To rebound from the devastating impact of his life experiences and course correct, he began studying the habits of successful people and created a morning regimen that touches several facets of physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

Can Abuse Happen to Me?

People often think of abusive relationships as violent, horrendous, and bloody, like something you would see on some sensational television drama. While that is the experience of many, other survivors may not relate. In fact, more often than not, domestic violence does not involve the use of physical abuse. Non-physical forms of abuse can be just as if not even more painful and harmful to survivors’ wellbeing.

Covid Tension? It Might be Time for Couples Counseling

Many couples become gridlocked on issues. This means they have the same perpetual fight and cannot reach a conclusion or compromise. This is how many couples find themselves on my couch… Well, I guess on my computer screen these days. Many couples are now becoming gridlocked on issues surrounding the pandemic. I find these fights carry even more tension, as what one partner does can impact the other, as well as the entire family.

Why You Need to Prioritize Your Marriage After Baby

The steps seem so easy in this all too familiar playground song. We were taught at a young age that after you fall in love, you get married, then you have children… And then everyone lives happily ever after. We now know that relationships and love can come in many different forms and don’t always follow this simple childhood song; however, many still continue to believe in the fairytale of what we think life will look like after having a baby. For many, they believe their relationship will grow stronger, they will feel more in love, and live blissfully ever after when starting a family.

Let’s Talk About Sex After an Affair

Let’s talk about sex…Now that I have everyone’s attention, let’s really talk about sex. When a marriage is going through a dip, I often hear from my clients that their sexual intimacy also suffers. It makes sense because sex requires vulnerability with our partner.

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