From professional and personal experience, I know that relationships can be rich and rewarding as well as disappointing and painful -- the best of times and the worst of times!
We hope for “happily ever after," but the reality is that most marriages and long-term intimate relationships encounter times of conflict, loneliness, and disconnection. Multiple demands compete for our attention and energy. We struggle to navigate conflict effectively or to repair disappointments and hurts. Intimacy erodes. And infidelity or other breaches of trust may threaten the viability of the relationship.
I help couples evaluate what is working and what is not working in their relationship and join with them to address their concerns and improve the quality of their connection. We work together to interrupt negative patterns, develop skills to manage reactivity, and communicate with honesty and respect.
I also work with couples who are considering separation or divorce. For most people it’s a heart wrenching decision that is not made easily. Discernment counseling creates space for couples to slow down, make the decision thoughtfully rather than reactively, and lessen the chances for regret.