Couples
Practical, professional guidance for married and committed couples working through the everyday friction, distance, and repair that come with sharing a life.
Why Does My Spouse Act Differently When Their Parents Are Around?
The Short Answer A spouse who changes around their parents is usually reverting, often unconsciously, to an old…
Why Does My Spouse’s Family Playing Favorites Strain Our Marriage?
The Short Answer Favoritism from extended family strains a marriage because it forces your spouse to choose, again…
Why Do I Feel Jealous When My Spouse Talks to Their Ex Online?
The Short Answer Jealousy over a spouse’s contact with an ex is usually less about the ex themselves…
Why Do I Feel Distant From My Spouse Since They Lost Their Job?
The Short Answer Distance after a job loss usually comes from the sudden disruption to identity, routine, and…
Why Do My Spouse and I Disagree About How Many Kids to Have?
The Short Answer Disagreeing on family size is difficult precisely because it cannot be compromised the way most…
Why Do I Feel Anxious About Spending My Spouse Hides From Me?
The Short Answer Anxiety about hidden spending is usually a trust problem wearing a money costume. The dollar…
Why Does It Hurt So Much When My Spouse Never Says Thank You?
The Short Answer The sting of an absent thank you is rarely about the words themselves. It is…
Why Do I Feel Like My Spouse Chose Screen Time Over Me?
The Short Answer Feeling chosen against by a screen is usually less about the device itself and more…
Why Does It Bother Me When My Spouse Spends Money on Their Hobby?
The Short Answer Irritation about a spouse’s hobby spending is rarely just about the dollar amount. It usually…
Why Do I Feel Disconnected From My Spouse Over Our Political Differences?
The Short Answer Political disagreement itself rarely destroys a marriage. What damages it is when those disagreements start…
Why Do I Feel Like My Marriage Peaked Early and Has Been Declining Since?
The Short Answer Feeling like your marriage peaked early usually reflects comparing an easier, less burdened season of…
Why Do I Feel Guilty for Needing Alone Time After a Fight?
The Short Answer Feeling guilty for needing alone time after a fight usually comes from confusing a genuine,…