Relationships Inside Out

Who's ready to talk about sex therapy and kink?! We are joined by an incredible guest that demystifies all things sex therapy, sexual health, and getting kinky with your partner. We all deserve to have a fulfilling sexual self, as well as the opportunity to play and explore what that means for us. Join us as we welcome another guest, Andrea Caggiano, LCSW, LAC is a sex therapist with nearly 20 years of experience. She's passionate about advocating for sexual wellness and sexual health, and she specializes in working with non-monogamy and kink. Andrea breaks down sex therapy, what kink is, and safe ways to explore your kinky side. Her knowledge and tips are going to blow your mind!Please head on over and check out episode 101, Let's Get Kinky. If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! Also, take a look at our new podcast set via our YouTube channel, https://www.youtube.com/@relationshipsinsideout. We can't wait to hear what you think! Later topics include: sex therapy with chronic illness, craniosacral therapy, trauma, military families, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!  For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook @RelationshipsInsideOutllc or Instagram at relationshipsinsideout! Some resources related to this episode:What Is Kink?A Beginner's Guide to the World of BDSM and Consensual KinkAndrea Caggiano, LCSW, LAC instagram - sxtherapywithandreaAndrea Caggiano LCSW, LAC websiteSexual Health AllianceAASECTAASECT referral directoryStudio FrictionThe Sanctuary

100 episodes! It is hard to believe we are here! Over these past couple of years, we have discussed so many things in regards to relationships, including with friendships, marriages, dating, parenting, family, community, and self. We have unpacked taboo topics, including sex and politics, as well as gave tangible tools to create healthy relationships throughout the lifespan. What a journey it has been! Join us as we look back at the last 100 episodes! We highlight valuable tools we mentioned, revisit healthy relationship dynamics, and look to the future. We are honored to share our knowledge across the world, and we cannot wait to see where the next 100 episodes take us! Also, take a look at our new podcast set coming next episode via our YouTube channel. We can't wait to hear what you think! Please head on over and check out episode 100, Looking Back on 100 Episodes. If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! Later topics include: kin and sex therapy, connection, trauma, military families, sex therapy, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!  For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook @RelationshipsInsideOutllc! 

Our perception colors everything, every emotion, memory, reaction, relationship, and belief. Perception provides us our sense of truth and reality. But what happens when our perceptions are dissimilar than those around us, even drastically different? How do we manage these differences or our reactions to the differences? How do we navigate disagreement in a respectful and compassionate way, even if there is no hope of a shared reality? We are excited to answer all of these questions and more! Join us as we unpack the power of perceptions. We are all in control of our own perceptions and reactions, impacting how we interact and connect with others. When we can understand where our perceptions come from, we give ourselves the power to control them as well as subsequent reactions. We can't wait for you to learn more! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! Later topics include: , sex therapy, connection, trauma, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!  For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:How Your Thinking Creates Your RealityCognitive ReappraisalMeaning Making Following TraumaUnhelpful Thinking Styles

The deep sting of betrayal cuts deeper than most other lived experiences. Betrayal is a rupture of trust and confidence by someone we value and trust. Betrayal has the ability to turn our world upside down in just a moment, leaving us on a course of pain, confusion, anxiety, sadness, anger, and struggle. Join us as we wade through the dark waters of betrayal. Betrayal can occur in any trusted relationship and have a ripple impact to every part of our lives. While betrayal can be devastating, it can be overcome with great beauty, growth, and self-reflection on the other side. You don't want to miss this conversation, whether you have been betrayed, betrayed another, or are the support person in either of those roles! Please head on over and check out episode 98, Betrayal. If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! Later topics include: trauma, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!  For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this topic:Betrayal and Human RelationshipsHow to Rebuild Trust After Betrayal in a RelationshipHow to Deal With Betrayal in a RelationshipHow to Get Over Betrayal in Relationships: 17 Helpful Tips

Can you believe it is already that time again, time to ring in a new year? Welcoming in the new year is an excellent chance to pause, reflect on the previous year, and set intentions for who we want to be going forward. We get to choose how we move forward and who we become with each new day. Come join us on this journey of resetting! Join us as we ring in the new year with personal reflection and intention setting. The new year marks a moment of growth and shifting if you allow it, and we are excited to guide you along the way! Join us for this conversation as we adjust the way you see new year's resolution so that they are intention, authentic, and powerful! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we dive into the dark world of betrayal. Later topics include: trauma, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!  For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!

Have you ever said to yourself, “If only my partner would ______, then I would _____?” Perhaps, this may include: if they helped more than you might too, or if they did a certain thing than you would be happier, or even if they changed then you might change too. This becomes a vicious cycle of complacency. Complacency, or the lack of effort or intention in a relationship, can be highly destructive to a partnerships. You both have a duty to give your partner your best effort, regardless of what your partner is doing or how long you have been together! Join us as we breakdown complacency in relationships, including why it is corrosive to relationship quality and how to shift from this state of inertia. As the years pass, we often put in less effort in our relationships, whether that is from comparison, resentment, greater outside responsibilities, less energy, or simply taking our partner and relationship for granted. Don't let this become you and your partnership; we are here to help! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we welcome in the new year with new year's intentions! Later topics include: trauma, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!  For more updates or helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!

One of the biggest decisions we make as adults is whether or not to have children. How do we come to this decision? What if you disagree about this decision with your partner? What if your desires to have or not to have children change over the course of your relationship? How many children is right for me and my partnership? How does having children align with my other values, family trauma history, finances, religious beliefs, self needs, and personal capabilities? We address these considerations and many more in this episode! Join us as we help partnerships process through this massive decision, to have or not have children. We offer guidance in compassion, listening, and intentional consideration as you and your partner move through this journey. We not only discuss the decision to have a first baby, but also subsequent children. We hope that we help both partners feel heard and seen in making your decision! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we discuss complacency in relationships and how it can erode your partnership. Later topics include: trauma, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!  Resources related to this episode:Should We Have Children?The Decision to Have a Baby or TwoThe Choice Between Parenting and Being ChildfreeWhy Adults Who Don't Want Children Are Just as HappyWhat to Do If You Disagree With Your Partner About Having KidsFor more helpful resources or updates, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!

Just like any team, in our relationships, different people have different roles, ideally playing to each person's strengths. Creating a cohesive team as a couple can be tricky to start, but incredibly fulfilling and effective when done well. Teamwork can be the very thing that gets us through the hardest moments in life, saving us from additional stress, fatigue, anxiety, and overwhelm. Join us as we help you build your relationship teamwork skills, playing to each partner's strengths while encouraging open communication and flexibility. You each deserve support and a teammate by your side!If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we breakdown how to handle differences in wanting children. Later topics include: trauma, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!  For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!

Picture the begin of your romantic relationship. It was probably filled with dates, connection, laughter, thoughts of your partner, and even intimacy. If you have been dating for months or years, it is likely that somewhere along the way, these things began to fade. The relationship may now be boring, mundane, and honestly a low priority compared to the rest of life's demands. It does not have to be this way! No matter how long you have been together, we can still experience a fun, romantic, connective, and intimate relationship with just a little bit of effort!  Join us as we give guidance to couples on how to continue to date your partner and consistently nourish your relationship, regardless of how long you have been together! Your relationship needs to be a top priority, no matter how chaotic and life seems to be. We are here to help you get there! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we talk teamwork in couples! Later topics include: trauma, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!  For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!

The change of the seasons from summer to fall: a beautiful time of year but also the beginning of mental health challenges for many of us. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a common yet inhibiting mental health condition where our mood and energy dip with the change to darker or colder seasons. While this is common, it does not have to be debilitating. We are here to help!Join us as we unpack SAD and tangible tools to overcome these shifts in mood, libido, and energy. The change of the seasons can be beautiful without all of the suffering that has come in years past. You are capable of taking control of these shifts in your body, and we cannot wait to help you get there!If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com!  In two weeks, we give helpful guidance to help you date your partner and nourish your relationship for years to come! Later topics include: trauma, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!  For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Seasonal Affective Disorder: An Overview of Assessment and Treatment Approaches10 Ways to Beat the Winter Blues

Politics can be a taboo topic to discuss, with dissonance in views potentially creating stress, dissonance, relationship discord, and relationship cutoffs. But does it really have to be this way? We don't think so! We are here to shine light on the topic and help you avoid getting swept up in political stress and toxicity.Join us as we offer guidance to buffer your mental health, relationships, and overall well-being from the potential negative impacts of political stress. We all hold deeply seeded values, likely influencing how we vote and the political views we hold. But, we also hold the ability to choose how these things impact us and our relationships. You can overcome differences, and we are here to help!If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we give you tools to tackle the mood shifts and challenges that come with the changes in the seasons! Later topics include: trauma, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!   For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episodeManaging Conversations When You Disagree Politically5 Principles for Talking Politics with Friends and FamilyHow Not to Let Politics Ruin Your Family Dinner

Some resources related to this episode:Don't Stay Together for the Kids3 Problems with a Couple Staying Together for the KidsShould You Stay Together Only for the Kids?Parental Divorce or Separation and Children's Mental HealthChildren and Divorce

Anxiety. Anxiety attacks. Panic attacks. What are these? Do they all mean the same thing? What leads to panic attacks, and what do they feel like? How do you manage anxiety to prevent future panic attacks? How to you cope with a panic attack when it inevitably comes? We answer all of these questions and many more on this episode of Relationships Inside Out!Join us as we differentiate between anxiety, anxiety attacks, and panic attacks. While each of these can be common and happen with any of us, they do not have to take over our lives, specifically panic attacks. We cannot wait for you to join in the conversation, filled with tools for prevention, management, and coping with panic attacks. It's time for you to take back control of your mental health! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we unpack the risks of staying together for the kids! Later topics include: trauma, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!  For more updates or helpful resources, follow us on @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!

Burnout of any type has the ability to impact us physically, mentally, and emotionally. It isn't just our minds that wear out, but also our energy supply, patience, body, and capacity. Parenting has the ability to run us dry with its high level of demands and responsibility. We are hopeful we can help you tackle the stress as it comes so you can avoid parenting burnout! Join us as we unpack parenting burnout. Parenting is exhausting and HARD! Without the proper supportive tools, parenting has the ability to send our stress through the roof, bringing us to the point of burnout. It does not have to be this way! Join us to gain some tools to prevent parent burnout and enjoy your parenting journey! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we breakdown panic attacks and tools to help! Later topics include: trauma, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!  For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Resources related to this episode:What to Know About Parental BurnoutThe Impact of Parental BurnoutExamining the Epidemic of Working Parental Burnout and Strategies to HelpSingle Parenting Stress: How to Beat BurnoutDifferences in Parental Burnout: Influence of Demographic Factors and Personality of Parents and Children

Having a baby has the ability to turn a couple's world upside down. Who we were before having babe, including our routines, sense of connection, priorities, intimate preferences, and so much more, changes in that moment. We are often not prepared for the changes we face, especially within our romantic partnership. We are here to help you and your partner face those challenges head on and remain connected and intimate after baby! Join us as we welcome back Angela Das, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and new parent educator, for the second part of our two-part series with her! For part two, Angela dives into how to keep the relationship connection and intimacy alive after baby is born. Angela offers her expertise in tools to help couples keep expectations realistic and the connection alive. Physical touch, emotional vulnerability, and sex do not need to move to the back-burner with our new little one. Join us to learn more! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we dive into parent burnout! Later topics include: trauma, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!  For more update and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOut!Resources related to this episode:Sex After Pregnancy: Set Your Own TimelineWhen Couples Become Parents: The Impact on Your RelationshipHow Women Recover Their Sexuality After ChildbirthGetting Real With Sex After Pregnancy5 Ways to Keep Your Relationship Strong After Having a BabyAngela Das, IBCLC - Motherhood Untamed Lactation & Education

It's that exciting moment when a couple announces that they are soon having a baby. As a couple, the focus immediately goes to baby showers, picking the baby's name, choosing their birthing plan and space, and selecting those cute first outfits for baby and mom. Rarely do we think about how to prepare our marriage for postpartum or prepare our mental health for the challenges that lie ahead after birth, including breastfeeding barriers, exhaustion, navigating parental roles, shifts in our marriage, and much more. Join us as we welcome a very special guest for a two-part series, Angela Das, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and new parent educator. For part one, Angela shares her in-depth knowledge of challenges and potential tools for feeding baby and creating a team mentality in couples in postpartum. Angela also dives into maternal gatekeeping and how to avoid this common, yet potentially maritally devasting, pattern post-birth. You do not want to miss this one! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we are ecstatic to welcome Angela Das, IBCLC back for part 2 in our series with her, this time focusing on intimacy and sexuality in postpartum! Later topics include: trauma, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!  For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:Maternal Gatekeeping: What It Is, Examples, & How to Stop3 Reasons Behind ' Maternal Gatekeeping,' According To A PsychologistWho are the Gatekeepers? Predictors of Maternal GatekeepingAngela Das, IBCLC - Motherhood UntamedMotherhood Untamed Virtual Class (Breastfeeding + Baby Care Basics + Preparing for Parenthood)

Imagine running into a wall made of thick steel. It is likely that the wall would not budge and you might feel pain and helpless at breaking it down. Rigid boundaries are akin to that steel wall: firm, immoveable, and unforgiving. While rigid boundaries are often born out of self-protection, people with these boundaries may reinforce the very things they fear: rejection, isolation, loneliness, and emotional pain. Join us as we explore the second part of our boundaries series, rigidity. In opposition to last week's episode focusing on enmeshment, this week we unpack rigid boundaries, boundaries that are firm, inflexible, and often inconsiderate of other's desires. If you or someone you know leads with these impenetrable boundaries, you don't want to miss this episode! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we welcome another guest, Angele Das, IBCLC, for part one of our two-part series with her. This episode discuss all things breastfeeding and maternal gate keeping after birth! Part two will focus on intimacy and sexuality in postpartum. We are honored to share her expertise! Later topics include: trauma, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more! For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllcSome resources related to this episode:What are Personal Boundaries? (PDF)Are Your Boundaries Too Weak or Too Rigid?Families and Groups with Rigid Boundaries

Boundaries are at the core of any healthy relationship. Boundaries dictate how close or distant we are from another person, including physically, mentally, and emotionally. When those boundaries become weak and permeable, we have now entered into the territory of enmeshment. Enmeshment is born out of a desire for love and closeness, but potentially breeds the risk of loss of self, diminished confidence, and volatile relationship patterns.Join us as we define enmeshment, identify the risks of this boundary level, and ways to strengthen boundaries for your own health, as well as others. Boundaries can be very difficult to navigate, especially when there has been a consistent pattern of a lack of boundaries before. Let us help you identify if this is something you may be facing and ways to hold loving yet confident boundaries!If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we dive into part two of our two-part series on boundaries, rigidity! Later topics include: trauma, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more! For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:The Enmeshed Family System: What It Is and How to Break FreeHow to Set Healthy Boundaries With AnyoneHow to Set Boundaries with Toxic People

Sex and intimacy, both holding the potential for so much pleasure but also so much pain. Sex therapy, a specialized type of therapy that focuses on strengthening our intimate and sexual selves, helps with understand any barriers or fears that inhibit our most intimate experiences, as well as provide tools to live a fully satisfying sexual life. We are eager for you to tune into this episode and hear from a certified sex therapist about how sex therapy could be in incredible resource for you or someone you love! Join us as we welcome our next guest, Abby Neuberg, MA, LMFT, LPC, Certified Sex Therapist, to talk about sex therapy! Abby explains what to expect in sex therapy, common concerns that sex therapists can help individuals and couple address, and some tools to improve intimacy and sex. We are all prone facing challenges with our intimate and sexual selves at various points in our lives, but we don't have to struggle alone! Que: sex therapy! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we define what it means to feel triggered and how to work through it! Later topics include: trauma, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!

“I am a failure.” “I hate my body. Why would anyone find me attractive?”“I am a disappointment.”“Why can't I do anything right?”“I don't deserve love or connection.”“Everyone is better than me. I will never be good enough or worthy.”Have you ever said any of these phrases, or something similar, to yourself? These are all evidence of negative self-talk, a common yet still unhealthy pattern of thinking. We want you to consider: if a friend talked to you the way you talk to you, would you still be friends with them? If the answer is “no,” it is time for a change!Join us as we shine a light on negative self-talk. At its worst, negative self-talk has the ability to devastate our mental health, relationships, parenting, career, and friendships. We are all subject to negative self-talk from time to time, but when it takes over how we feel, talk, and value ourselves, it is officially unhealthy and worthy of your attention to change. Let us help you start the journey towards self-compassion, self-worth, and positive self-talk!If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com!In two weeks, we dive into the world of sex therapy! Later topics include: trauma, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!

Have you ever felt like you were walking on eggshells with a partner, friend, family member, coworker, or child? Do you worry about his or her reaction to your feedback or emotions, limiting who you are and how you behave around them? This pattern is far too common, and deeply unhealthy. Join us as we unpack what it means to be walking on eggshells and steps to break this toxic cycle. Join us as we breakdown the experience of walking on eggshells, including warning signs that this is happening, the other person's role, your role, and next steps to overcome this cycle. You deserve to be your whole and authentic self in all of your relationships, free from fear, manipulation, reactivity, and gaslighting. Let's tackle this together and help you both feel healthier in your relationship!  If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com!  In two weeks, we ask the hard questions to help you examine what you are doing with your life! Later topics include: sex therapy, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!

Anxiety spraying: the act of casting your anxiety on those around you. We all get anxious, but do you or someone you love sometimes become so anxious, that others around cannot help but pick up those emotions? We have all been there! Emotions are contagious, often leading to others being affected by our emotional state without even intending it. It is time we all come to understand our emotions and how our emotions impact others, we well as how to take control of them!Join us as we dive into anxiety spraying, and other forms of emotional contagion. We explain what it is, why it matters, and how to prevent it. We also explain emotional reciprocity and why this is key for emotionally safe, balanced relationships with those we love. You are responsible for your emotions, and we are here to help you take ownership of them!If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we dive into walking on eggshells with those you love! Later topics include: sex therapy, military families, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, and so much more!For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this topic:How to Create Emotional Boundaries in Your Relationship8 Ways to Provide Emotional Support for Your Partner...and what to avoidGrounding Techniques for Trauma and Anxiety11 Tips for Coping With an Anxiety Disorder

Privacy and secrecy in relationships can be a hot button topic. How much is too much or too little? When are privacy and secrecy okay or not okay? How can I trust my partner if they keep secrets? Aren't we supposed to be an open book with our partner? We are here to help answer all of these questions and more! Join us as we discuss privacy and secrecy in romantic partnerships, including what healthy privacy and secrecy look like and how to avoid common pitfalls. Healthy relationships include maintaining a personal identity and things that are just our own, including secrets. In healthy relationships, privacy and secrecy are not only important in protecting space to be our individual selves, but also in building trust and safety in the relationship. Let us explain how!  If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com!  In two weeks, we explore anxiety spraying in relationships! Later topics include: sex therapy, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:Why We Keep So Many SecretsHow Much Relationship Privacy Do You Need?The Secrets That You Keep: Secrets and Relationship QualityWhen Do Your Secrets Hurt Your Well-Being

“My child is constantly melting down.”“My child seems so anxious. I don't know how to help them.”“Why is my kiddo struggling so much at school, including with making friends?”“I am worried about my child with our divorce. I don't want to hurt her/him.”Have you said any of these phrases, or similar phases, when talking about your child? Do you worry about your child's mental health, social skills, reactivity, behaviors, or mood? You are not alone, but you and your child do not have to continue to struggle. There are therapists specifically for children here to help! Join us as we welcome another guest, Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist, Tracy Main! Tracy is a highly trained child therapist, specializing in the mental health care of our smallest family members, our children. She unpacks what play therapy is, when parents might consider adding this support to their family, and how play therapy can dramatically improve your child's life (and your's)! You do not want to miss this one! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we unpack privacy in relationships! Later topics include: sex therapy, secret keeping, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:What Is Play Therapy?Association for Play Therapy - find a play therapistAssociation for Play Therapy Research ResourcesAn Overview of Play TherapyPlay Therapy: Considerations and Applications for the Practitioner

We all have experienced past wounds from those around us, including friends, family, partners, coworkers, and our community. Those wounds often follow us for far longer than we recognize, shaping our future relationships, reactivity, thought patterns, trust, and much more. It is time to identify your relationship baggage and officially leave it behind! Join us as we talk about past baggage and how to let it go for good. Whether you have experienced trauma, rejection, betrayal, abandonment, hurt feelings, or simply failed expectations, chances are that these experiences alter how you enter into any new relationship or friendship. This does not have to be the case, and we are here to show you how!If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com!In two weeks, we welcome another guest, Tracy Main, to discuss play therapy for our little family members! Later topics include: sex therapy, secret keeping, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:What Does the Term 'Emotional Baggage' Mean?Everyone Has Baggage, Including YouFive Ways Our Relationship Baggage Can Be BeneficialHow to Let Go of the Past

Valentine's Day, the ultimate Hallmark holiday. We often use this day to go on a fancy date and say all the things we should have over the past year. We use it as a time to reconnect with our partner for a day, but then the holiday passes, and we are right back to where we started. Not this year! It is time to shake up this pattern and keep that spark alive long past February!  Join us we help you keep your relationship connected, romantic, fun, and fulfilling beyond the Valentine's Day bliss. Join us as we give tangible tools to reignite the spark in your relationship and give your relationship the focus it needs to keep it healthy and strong. If you are in a relationship, you need and deserve to hear this one! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we dive into past baggage and how it could be weighing you down in more ways than you recognize! Later topics include: sex therapy, secret keeping, gender roles, parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!

Life is hard, leading to hard conversations. While it is not an experience any of us hope for, we may find ourselves serving as the deliverer of hard, traumatic, or critical information to another. To know how to have these conversations if often a skill we are not taught, but we are here to help, including with our children!Join us as we breakdown the “how to” for having difficult conversations and breaking painful news to those we love. The challenges we may have to discuss can include death of a loved one, divorce, moving, medical crises, marital challenges, car accidents, and more. There is no right way to discuss these, but we are here to give you tools to approach conversations with intentionality, respect, and compassion.  If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com!  In two weeks, we offer guidance and tips to reignite the spark in your relationship! Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more! For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:How to Have Difficult Talks About Your MarriageStrategies to Make Tough Conversations More Effective7 Tips for Getting Through Difficult ConversationsHow to Handle Difficult Conversations Gracefully

Helicopter parenting: a buzz phrase with potentially serious implications on families. Helicopter parenting, or the choice to be high in control and surveillance as a parent, is often in reflection of love but risks the healthy development of children. Parents often fear for their children, including their safety and emotional well-being. When we take the desire for protection to a high level, we wade into the waters of helicopter parenting.Join my colleague, Dr. Greg Seibert, LMFT, and I as we unpack helicopter parenting, including what it is, the risks of this parenting style, and ways to avoid leaning in this direction as a parent. We all love our children and want them to be safe and successful, but we must also allow them room to make mistakes, experience distress, and lead in their own autonomy. If you are a parent, you do not want to miss this one!  If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com!  In two weeks, we will walk you through how to have tough conversations with those we love. Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more! For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:What Is Helicopter Parenting?What is Helicopter Parenting? Signs, Effects & ImpactsWhy Helicopter Parenting Fosters FailureNo, Don't Be a Helicopter Parent. But Be InvolvedWhy Perfectionists May Become Helicopter ParentsHow Not to Raise a Narcissist

Therapy: a potentially scary or overwhelming concept for many people. Did you know that each therapist offers their own unique style and set of skills, providing a wide variety of types of therapy? Further, did you know that some types of therapy can create significant lasting change, with hardly any talking or deep diving into the past at all? That is where neurofeedback comes in! Join us as we welcome our next guest, Tanja Gorenc, MA, LMFT, BCN, the owner of NeuroBloom Counseling and Neurofeedback, PLLC! Tanja shares her extensive insights into neurofeedback, an evidence based and cutting-edge therapy technique. She shares about how neurofeedback can help just about anyone, ages 6 and up, facing mental health challenges to create lasting positive change! We cannot wait for you to listen in! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we will deep dive into helicopter parenting. Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more! For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Resources related to this episode:What Is Neurofeedback Therapy?International Society for Neuroregulation & ResearchThe Evidence-Base for Neurofeedback...Neurobloom Counseling and Neurofeedback, LLCFinding a Biofeedback Certification International Alliance certified practitioner

We all engage in many relationships, whether it is with friends, family, coworkers or our children. While each relationship is unique, each has the potential for conflict or discord because, let's face it, we are all fallible and all make mistakes. So, the question is not about if ruptures will happen, but rather once they do happen, how do we repair? Join us as we give step by step guidance, including what to say, to create repair after a rupture in any relationship, even with our kids! Repairing is an essential skill in any healthy relationship, preventing resentment, cutoffs, and future pain. Join us as we walk you through the repair process, including what to do and what not to do, appropriate timing, accountability, and exactly what to say! We all can use these skills in every relationship we have!  If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com!  In two weeks, we will deep dive into neurofeedback with our next special guest, Tanja Gorenc! Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more! For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!

New Year resolution time is upon us! As we approach the end of the year, we often feel motivation to set fresh goals for ourselves in the new year, becoming a version of ourselves we have dreamed of becoming. We may set lofty goals with aggressive timelines or shoot to achieve a change in ourselves incongruent with our current lives, leading us to “fail” year after year. This year does not have to be the same! Join us as we dive into new year resolutions, including the common types, do's and don'ts, and tips for success! Let us help you finally stick to that new mindset, health plan, intention, or financial goal you are eager to achieve. Let's ring in 2024 with high hopes followed by consistent, well-deserved growth and accomplishment!If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we deep dive into neurofeedback with our next special guest, including what it is and how it can help! Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more updates and helpful resources, follow up on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:Make New Year's Resolutions That Last with SMART Goals10 Great Tips to Keep Your New Year's ResolutionsFor a Happier New Year, Consider the Way You ThinkNew Year's Resolutions That Actually Help You

Do you ever wish you had a checklist of things to do, to ask, to explore before moving in with, committing to, or marrying a partner? Are there times you say to yourself, “I wish I knew back then what I know now about my partner/relationship. Maybe I would have done things differently.” We are here to help guide any relationship, even those that are years deep, in discussing all of the important topics that can make or break a relationship!Join us as we provide tangible tips and topics to consider when entering a relationship, deepening a relationship, or maintaining a relationship for the long haul. It is easy to get swept away in the infatuation and attraction, but we are here to encourage you to pause and dig deep. We hope to help you and your current, or future partner, build a strong base to build a lasting relationship upon! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we dive into New Year resolutions and how to actually make them stick this year! Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:Dating Tips If You Want a Relationship7 Tips for Building a Happy Relationship2 Ways to Succeed in a New RelationshipDestigmatizing Premarital CounselingPremarital Counseling: Is It Right for You?

Someone wise once said: “We repeat what we don't repair.”We all have parts of us that originate from our families, caregivers, or growing up experiences. We experience modeling from those who raise us, guiding us as adults in the way we communicate, argue, cope, love, connect, and grow. Some of these traits can be good, while others may be toxic and unhealthy. Now think about yourself. What are some of the traits that you are grateful for that your loved ones bestowed upon you? What about the unhealthy ones? Do you even know what the unhealthy ones are? Or how to overcome them? That is where we can help!Join us as we guide you through identifying, correcting, and avoiding future unhealthy behaviors and traits given to us by our families. Let us help you begin your journey of repairing, so you do not repeat the unhealthy family patterns that lurk within you. Let's break the generational patterns and choose healthy connection, conflict, love, and coping together!If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we will offer guidance to premarital couples to have long-term relationship health and success. Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more helpful resources and updates, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:Why Do We Repeat the Same Dysfunctional Relationship Patterns Over and Over?How Your Childhood Can Affect Your MarriageAre You Repeating Your Childhood Dynamics in Romance?

Holidays have the potential to bring great joy and celebration, but they also can bring family tension, loneliness, anxiety, debt, loss of self-care, pressure, and much more. What if this holiday season, you only did the things you wanted to? What if you made choices based on your needs and desires, not the hopes and pressures of others? What if you really lived out the holiday season you have hoped for all of these years? Imagine the joy, relaxation, and connection you could experience! Join us as we shatter the expectations and pressures of the holiday season, offering tangible tips to experience the holidays as you truly want them to be. We help you set a goal for your holiday season, walk you through setting boundaries, offer tips to protecting your self-care and mental health, and help you make intentional choices to really enjoy the magic of the holidays! We cannot wait for you to check this episode out and bring yourself peace and confidence in your holiday plans! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we will offer insight to help you avoid repeating toxic family patterns. Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:1. 5 Ways to Manage Your Mental Health During the Holidays, According to a Therapist2. Managing the Seemingly Inevitable Holiday Season Stress3. What Are the Holiday Blues?4. Tips for Managing the Holiday Blues - National Alliance on Mental Illness

What is the single most impactful event on a marriage, creating the largest decline in marital satisfaction and quality? Answer: the birth of our first child. Pregnancy gives us a runway for this transition, ideally giving us time to plan and prepare for this daunting relational challenge. Join us as we give tips to tackle the challenges and reduce the potential negative impact on our relationship. Join us as we discuss pregnancy, including ways to set our relationship set up for success when our child is born. Pregnancy can be an incredibly beautiful, yet deeply challenging, journey for many mothers and their partners. The journey of pregnancy is unique to each mother and partnership, requiring equally unique support. We are eager to share our insights into this complex journey and ways to strengthen your relationship along the way! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we will give tips and tricks to protect your mental health this holiday season. Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more! For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:The Baby Effect: Are You Ready?Mentally Preparing for PregnancyPartners in Pregnancy: Preparing for a Baby TogetherResearch Shows That These Two Things Keep New Parents HappyCouples Communication Skills and Anxiety of Pregnancy: A Narrative ReviewWhen Couples Become Parents: The Impact on Your Relationship (Part I)Communication and Intimacy Tools for New Parents (Part II)Having a Baby: When You Don't AgreePostpartum Support International

Enabling: allowing or encouraging someone to continue potentially unhealthy behaviors or thought patterns in an effort to show love and support. When we hear the word “enabling,” we most often tend to think about addiction, but this relationship pattern shows up in many more contexts and relationship types. In any case, this pattern derived from love and support can be toxic and unhealthy for all involved. Join us as we unpack enabling. Enabling goes beyond just parents and children facing addiction, to include giving into children during a temper tantrum, accommodating another person's desire for complete control at the expense of our own needs or advocacy, accommodating behavioral patterns that worsen mental health, and much more. It can be incredibly difficult to identify, especially when we are a part of the cycle, making it even more difficult to overcome. Join us for tangible ways to notice this pattern and nip it in the bud before destruction sets in! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we dive into the journey of pregnancy and its impact on partnerships. Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:How to Recognize (and Correct) Enabling BehaviorAre You a Helper or an Enabler? How To Tell If You Are Enabling Your Adult ChildSupporting vs Enabling

Many of us have great hopes of becoming a parent one day, often with the hopes of having our own biological child. But for about 20% of us, this journey is difficult, or even impossible. Infertility can be unimaginably painful for both partners and their families. The journey of infertility is complex, fraught with hope and disappointment, bravery and fear, trust and isolation. We are here to offer support to those who may be facing infertility, as well as those witnessing the journey of someone else. Join us as we welcome another guest, Dr. Randi Smith, to discuss infertility. Dr. Smith is a Licensed Psychologist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and Professor at Metropolitan State University of Denver. She specializes in supporting women and couples facing the deep challenges of infertility, assisting them in navigating the emotional, mental, and physical aspects of this excruciating journey.  She guides us through the ins and outs of infertility and shares her wisdom in supporting those facing this journey.If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we define enabling, signs enabling is taking over, and ways to overcome it. Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more helpful resources and updates, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:What is Infertility?Infertility and Couples8 Ways Infertility Impacts Your Relationship and Ways to CopeInfertility and Fertility Resources10 Great Online Resources for FertilityAmerican Society for Reproductive MedicineOur GuestDr. Randi Smith 

Think about the last time you went to a restaurant or sat with your partner on the couch. What do these two have in common? Phones! Phubbing, or phone snubbing, is a growing phenomenon where we spend more time on our phones or electronic devices than we do actually connecting with those around us. Eye contact, verbal communication, attunement to emotions, and physical contact are essential for true, deep connection. Phubbing can leave the other person feeling alone, disconnected, devalued, and unimportant, including with our partner. Join us as we explore phubbing. In our desire to stay ever connected with the outside world or “check out” for a bit, we lose depth and quality in our relationships nearest to us. By staring at our phones constantly, even while eating or having a conversation, we are communicating to the other person that we do not prioritize them or value what they have to say. In this episode, we offer insights into the true impact phones are having on our relationships, as well as tips to notice and correct our phubbing behaviors. You and your partner deserve better! Please head on over and check out episode 63, Phubbing Your Partner. If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we will discuss infertility with Dr. Randi Smith. Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more! For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:Introducing 'Phubbing''Phubbing' Is Hurting Your Relationships. Here's What It IsPhubbing - The #1 Phone Habit to Drop for Better RelationshipsWhy the Phenomenon of "Phubbing Is Like Relationship MoldWhy Too Much Cell Phone Usage Can Hurt Your Family RelationshipsSmartphones, Social Media Use and Youth Mental Health

Ask yourself, have you ever wanted to win an argument with your partner/spouse? Have you thought of yourself as completely right and your partner as fully wrong? Have you sought to prove your point, no matter the toll it took on your partner or relationship? If we are honest, just about all of us have done these things, and as a result, all of our relationships have suffered from it. It is time to shift our thinking from winning to collaborating!Join us as we breakdown collaboration vs. competition in romantic relationships. When we are competitive in getting our needs met within our relationship, we actually push our partner away and reduce our chances of getting our needs met. Instead, we invite you to learn with us how to shift to a mindset of collaboration, ensuring both of you feel heard, seen, and cared for. Let's improve your relationship together!   If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we unpack phubbing your partner! Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this topic:20 Signs You Are in a Competitive RelationshipMarriage Is a Team SportThe Victim Competition in Intimate Relationships

Welcoming home baby and raising children comes with countless challenges, but one that is often not discussed is the tricky dynamic between new parents and their parents. For many parents, grandparents can be a blessing to new parents, offering additional support and wisdom. But for others, grandparents can add a challenging dynamic that may be hard to navigate, leaving both parents and grandparents in discord and the children stuck in the middle. Join us as we unravel the tangled tapestry of grandparents' involvement in new families. We discuss both sides of the potential conflict, illuminating stress points for both the parents and the grandparents. We offer considerations for both sides to reflect on, as well as possible solutions to overcome the barriers that arise and truly enjoy the incorporation of extended family while raising children.   If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we breakdown collaboration vs. competition in romantic relationships! Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:How Adult Children Can Set Boundaries with Their ParentsResources For Grandparents13 Tactics Families Use to Alienate GrandparentsHow to Navigate Difficult Relationships with Your FamilySetting Boundaries with Addicted Grandparents

Prioritizing your relationship is more vital than you might realize to maintain a long-lasting, healthy, and fulling relationship! Our partner needs to feel valued and important in our lives each and every day. So, how do we do that? We are here to offer our insights on 4 simple things to keep at the center of your relationship, leading to you truly prioritizing your relationship! Join us as we unpack the four C's of prioritizing your relationship. As marriage therapists with over two decades of combined experience and two doctorates in marriage and family therapy, we know what it takes to foster healthy and strong relationships. We are eager to share our knowledge and for you to find out what the 4 C's are (with a bonus one!), helping you prioritize your relationship! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we will discuss grandparent relationships, including potential challenges and ways to navigate this dynamic! Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more! For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:How to Set Relationship Goals With Your Partner9 Ways to Prioritize Your Relationship When Life Gets BusyWhy Compassion Is So Important for a Romantic RelationshipCompassion for Couples How to Improve Your Communication In Relationships10 Ways to Connect With Your Partner Daily

“I don't feel like doing that.”“Why even try? I just know I am going to fail.”“I don't have enough time to do it.”“I feel stuck but don't know how to make a change.”Have you ever said any of these to yourself? Us too. At the heart of each of these could be a lack of motivation, the central driving force we use to accomplish the things we desire. Motivation helps us get up in the morning, do the things we don't want to do, and reach for our biggest dreams. If you are struggling with motivation, or have in the past, you do not want to miss this episode!Join us as we unpack motivation, including what to do when motivation seems out of reach. Motivation drives just about all that we do, and when we are struggling with it, it can feel like we are swimming through mud. Lack of motivation is a common experience but it can feel debilitating. No need to continue to struggle with lack of motivation! We are here to help!  If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we share the four C's to prioritizing you relationship! Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:Motivation: The Driving Force Behind Our ActionsHow to Increase Self-MotivationSMART Goals7 Best Goal Tracker Apps for 2023

Compassion fatigue is emotional and physical exhaustion as a result of giving compassion to others who are experiencing stress or trauma. While giving compassion and support to others, it can be tricky to manage our own needs and boundaries. Compassion fatigue can sneak up on people, leading to exhaustion, irritability, blunting of empathy or other emotions, detachment, self-blame, cynicism, or rumination. If you are someone who finds themselves in the position of caring for another and are experiencing any of these symptoms, tune in and join us for this important conversation. Join us as we illuminate this often-unrecognized condition of compassion fatigue. We not only provide understanding of what this means, but also ways to improve symptoms and prevent compassion fatigue in the future. When we care for some in need, we are at risk of forgetting about or neglecting our own needs. This puts not only our physical health at risk, but also our mental health. Let us give guidance to prevent you from falling into the trap of compassion fatigue! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we aim to improve your motivation! Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more helpful resources and updates, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllcSome resources related to this topic:Compassion Fatigue: The Toll of Caring Too MuchBurnout Vs. Compassion FatigueCompassion Fatigue among Healthcare, Emergency, and Community Service Workers: A systematic ReviewCompassion Fatigue in Adult Daughter Caregivers of a Parent with DementiaCaring for Aging Populations: Examining Compassion Fatigue and Satisfaction

When you think about therapy, including what it may look like and what purpose it serves, what do you imagine? Perhaps it is the Hollywood depiction of someone laying down on a couch with the therapist sitting in judgement behind a desk? Or maybe you imagine a venting session, where all you do it talk? In any case, these myths, as well as others, may prevent some from seeking therapy. We are here to shed light on what therapy actually looks like and what it can be like as we debunk many common therapy myths in our culture! Join my colleague, Dr. Greg Seibert, LMFT, and I as we breakdown common therapy myths, providing accurate information about therapy and some helpful guidance to find your best fit in a therapist! Therapy is much more than just talking! Therapists offer guided support to assist people in expanding their personal insights, finding solutions to personal challenges, and living the life they desire. If you have any questions or worries about what therapy would be like for you, you do not want to miss this episode! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we offer understanding and support for compassion fatigue. Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more! For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:10 Common Myths About TherapyCommon Misconceptions About Psychotherapy

Trauma. A complex interplay within the systems of the body following an event that led to us feeling out of control, a loss of autonomy, fear for our safety, or an intense unwanted emotional response. You may be asking:  What makes something traumatic for one person but not for another person? What happens in the brain and body when we experience trauma? Can anyone ever actually move past their trauma to true healing? What does the treatment of trauma look like? Will treatment even work for me or my loved one? We answer these questions, as well as many more, with our next guest, Andrew Kuchnick!Join us as we welcome another guest, Andrew Kuchnick. Andrew Kushnick is an experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an EMDR Certified Therapist. As a former attorney, Andrew utilizes science-based and evidence-based approaches with individuals and couples, to alleviate trauma, anxiety, work stress, burnout, relationship problems and depression. Andrew joins us in a deep dive exploring what trauma is, symptoms of trauma, and a variety of support tools and treatments for trauma. Andrew demystifies EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), the leading treatment for trauma. You do not want to miss out on his wealth of knowledge! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we debunk many common myths of therapy. Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more! For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:Andrew Kushnick PsychotherapyWhat is Trauma? How Trauma and PTSD Impact the BrainUnderstanding the Trauma BrainBooks Bouncing Back: Rewiring Your Brain for Maximum Resilience and Well-Being, by Linda GrahamTapping In, by Laurel Parnell The Body Keeps the Score, by Bessel van der Kolk The Complex PTSD Workbook: A Mind-Body Approach to Regaining Emotional Control and Becoming Whole, by Arielle Schwartz

Emotion regulation: the ability to notice, identify, and manage our emotions before they escalate. Emotion regulation is a skill, one we must intentionally learn and practice to use effectively. While we expect everyone to possess this skill, we rarely are given the opportunity to see it modeled and thus learn its intricacies. Failure to regulate our emotions not only impacts us individually, but also our partners, family, children, friends, coworkers and much more. Join us as we unpack emotion regulation and tools for success, both individually and in our partnerships!Join us as we discuss emotion regulation in couples. Couples are expected to have disagreements, but with proper tools, those disagreements should be brief, productive, and eventually resolved. If you notice that you and you partner tend to escalate or even shut down during disagreements, this episode is for you! We must gain the tools to soothe our own bodies while also supporting our partner in soothing their body and regulate the dyadic dynamic together. Let's break the cycle of fighting together through some of our tangible tools and move towards a more regulated self and partnership!If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we will lift the veil on trauma therapy. Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:What is Emotion Regulation? How Emotion Regulation Skills Promote Stability9 Science-Based Emotion Regulation Skills3 Proven Techniques to Regulate Your EmotionsDyadic Coping: A Systemic-Transactional View of Stress and Coping Among Couples: Theory and Empirical FindingsThe Relationships Between Dyadic Coping and Marital Quality: A 2-Year Longitudinal StudyStress, Dyadic Coping, and Relationship Satisfaction:

Breaking up is hard to do. Breakups do not just happen in romantic partnerships, but also in friendships, family relationships, and with employment. Breaking up can be incredibly challenging, eliciting a wide range of emotions including anger, grief, confusion, relief, fear, and much more.  So, what do we do if we are faced with breaking up, either by our choice or someone else's choice? How do we not only conquer the hard emotions but grow from the experience? Join us as we wade through the waters of breaking up. We unpack breaking up, including emotions that may arise, how to break up well, and ways to recover and grow post-breakup. We also provide helpful guidance about how to heal and prepare for our next relationship, including tangible tools to move forward intentionally and effectively. Don't let yourself fall into the trap of total self-blame or hiding away from the potential of new, healthy relationships. You can and will get through any breakups you face, no matter who it is with! If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we will lift the veil on trauma therapy. Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more updates and helpful resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:24 Signs That a Relationship May Be Coming to an EndWhy Some People Can't Let Go of Past RelationshipsWhen Is It Time to Leave a Relationship? How to Break Up8 Ways to Feel Better After a BreakupFamily EstrangementHow to Know When to End a Relationship With Family

Defensiveness: defending ourselves when we feel vulnerable, often in the face of criticism. Defensiveness can take on many masks, including yelling, shutting down, deflection, putting another person down, diffusing responsibility, over-explaining, and much more. In any case, defensiveness blocks us from healthy conversation, effective resolution, and getting our needs met. So, what do we do if we notice that we feel defensive or often witness our partner feeling defensive? Let us give you some guidance! Join us as we breakdown defensiveness. Defensiveness is all too common in modern day relationships, including with romantic partners, friends, and family. Defensiveness protects us from experiencing hurt or feeling vulnerable or judged. While it can feel protective in the moment, defensiveness blocks you from the healthy relationships and effective communication you deserve! Join us as we explore each type of defensiveness, how to identify defensiveness in real time, and tools to overcome these toxic patterns in relationships. While disagreement is expected, defensiveness does not have to be!  If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we explore breaking up, including with romantic partners, friends, and family members. Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more important updates and resources, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:What Is Defensiveness?How to Stop Being DefensiveWhy Some People Can Get So DefensiveDefensiveness: An Enemy of Growth and Good Relationships

Friendships: an incredibly important but perhaps rather difficult facet of our lives, especially as adults. Friendships are crucial for giving and receiving support, boosting our mood and overall well-being, offloading our partner from needing to be our everything, and keeping our heads above water in the hardest of moments. But you may be asking yourself: How do I find new friends? How do I pick the right ones for me, rather than just settling for any friendship? How to I build friendships that can stand the test of time? What really matters when it comes to healthy, enduring friendships? We are here to answer all of these questions and more! Join us as we explore friendship! The meaning of friendship and how friendship evolves changes drastically from childhood/adolescence into adulthood. It can feel tricky, or even impossible, to find new and quality friendships. We are here to offer some suggestions to not only find friends, but also a gameplan to confidently identify who is the best fit for your inner circle and ways to fortify your friendships for long term. We all deserve supportive, loving friends, including you!If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com!In two weeks, we dive into defensiveness. Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!For more updates and resources, follow us on Facebook at RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episode:Friends6 Friendship Benefits: Why It's Important to Stay Close to Your Friends6 Ways to Set Boundaries Without GuiltFitting in Versus Belonging9 Signs It's Time to End a Friendship

Tit for tat: keeping score in a relationship. Tit for tat can be engrained in our mind and our interactions with our partner. Tit for tat holds the risk of building resentment, fostering defensiveness, and harboring anger for our partner. It does not allow for the natural ebb and flow of the give and take in relationships, stifling growth in relationships and preventing compassion and validation for one another. Join us as we illuminate how tit for tat can show up in our relationship, as well as why it is an important pattern to eliminate and how to do this. When we can eradicate tit for tat in our relationships, we learn how to work as a team and lead with compassion and emotional attunement over judgment, criticism, and contempt. You don't want to miss this one!    If you find this episode, or any of our other episodes, helpful to you, please share with those that you love! Let us know what you think about what you want us to talk about next by emailing us at RelationshipsInsideOut@gmail.com! In two weeks, we explore the world of friendships and what makes some better for us than others. Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more! For more helpful resources and updates, follow us on Facebook at @RelationshipsInsideOutllc!Some resources related to this episodeTit for Tat!Why Your Relationship May Be Stuck in a Frustrating Tit-for-Tat PatternBeware the Tit for Tat Trap