Most people feel hurt when they experience criticism or rejection. That response is human and expected. After all, we are wired to care about connection and belonging. Yet, for some people, the emotional impact of rejection feels even more intense. For example, a small piece of feedback, a delayed response, or a subtle shift in […]
At the core of every healthy relationship lies connection, honesty, and repair. It sounds easier than it is sometimes. When we’re stressed or triggered, even the most loving couples can fall into old patterns of criticizing, shutting down, clinging, or pulling away. Relational Life Therapy (RLT), developed by psychotherapist and author Terry Real, is a […]
Couples therapy is an evolving field. While there are several popular models and methods therapists use to help partners move beyond conflict into deeper connection, a few years ago, Nashville Psych’s Dr. Mark Simpson was drawn to a newer approach called Relational Life Therapy. Historically, in couples work, Dr. Simpson has drawn on multiple modalities, […]
The holidays bring a wide range of feelings, many of which are positive. Yet, for many of us, this season can bring up emotional fatigue, social burnout, and guilt. Between family obligations, travel, work parties, and in many cases, unrealistic expectations to stay cheerful, our emotional energy can quickly drain. Emotional exhaustion is what happens […]
Many couples come into therapy feeling stuck in repetitive, painful cycles. Perhaps one partner pursues while the other withdraws, blame flies, defenses rise, and both individuals feel misunderstood and lonely. Relational Life Therapy (RLT), developed by Terry Real, offers couples a powerful roadmap to break free from these patterns. Rather than tiptoeing around conflict, RLT […]
The transition to the empty nest phase, when children leave home for college, careers, or independent living, is one of the most profound life changes many parents face. While this stage can bring excitement and pride, it also often stirs up complex emotions such as grief, loneliness, loss of identity, and anxiety about the future. […]