Communication

My Partner Says I Need To Tell Her Every Little thing

By Mary Ellen Goggin / October 29, 2017

What is your advice? Every night when Julie gets home from the office, Dan questions her about her day. He expects to hear about the morning commute, project meeting, lunch, phone calls and e-mails with friends. Julie has no interest in reliving her day and usually wants to cuddle and watch a funny show or…

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Marriage Money Talks, So Nobody Walks

By Jerry / March 7, 2013

Problems occur in a relationship when the partners have conflicting styles and perspectives about money. Even though money is a leading cause of divorce, couples rarely explore their individual money-selves before tying the knot. Often a money conflict sparks the discussion and sheds light on areas of incompatibility. Handled well (with awareness, understanding, and objectivity) different perspectives are not necessarily unworkable. In fact, many couples create financial plans that account for their individual money needs and wants, and find a complementary balance. The grinch curbs the spendthrift who loosens up the grinch to enjoy a moderate taste of the good life.

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Relationship Politics: Right and Left

By Jerry / October 30, 2012

Politics + Relationship: Red State Husband-Blue State Wife Don’t Let Political Arguments Threaten Your Marriage When I was growing up my parents had opposing views on politics. My mother grew up during the depression, loved FDR and was committed to the Democratic Party. My father was a WWII veteran who liked Ike. They rarely talked…

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Relationship Transformation Blog-Tom + Katie: The Conundrum of of Interfaith Relationships

By Jerry / July 10, 2012

The Conundrum of Interfaith Relationships A client’s quandary A client whom I’ll call Sandra recently confided in me. “I’m so conflicted. I don’t know what to do. I really love Jason, but I just don’t think we have a future together.” “Why not?” I asked. “He’s Jewish. He doesn’t practice or anything, but his family…

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I Feel Guily When I Fantasize About My Ex During Sex

By Jerry / May 28, 2012

 Ken was stooped over in his chair with his head cradled in his hands.  “Doc, I’ve got a confession to make. You know I love my wife and would never consider cheating on her.  But lately I find myself fantasizing about other women while we’re having sex― my neighbor, my hot sister-in-law, and celebrities like…

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The Five Stages of Relationship

By Jerry / March 27, 2012

Nature evolves in predetermined patterns: day follows night, winter spring, and adulthood follows childhood and infancy. This is also true of romantic relationships. Although each couple is unique, relationships tend to evolve in patterns or stages. Each stage provides a set of challenges that result either in personal growth and expansion or getting stuck in…

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