Let’s be honest—life can throw some serious curveballs. Whether it’s an unexpected loss, a stressful job, or the 57th time you’ve had to reset a forgotten password (why isn’t “password123” good enough?!), we all face challenges that can shake us up. But here’s the good news: while we can’t always control what happens to us, we can strengthen the things within us and around us that help us stay steady through it all. 

These things are called protective factors

After betrayal, silence can feel like safety — but it only feeds doubt. When you offer up information before your partner has to ask, you show accountability, awareness and transparency.

This small act can slow down the spiral of suspicion and start rebuilding trust. Healing takes consistency, honesty, and compassion — not perfection.

In this month's Therapy Moment, Robyn Ashbaugh, LMFT explains the importance of sharing as much helpful information with your partner regarding the betrayal at once rather than holding back and waiting for them to find out over time.

When my mom passed away in October, years ago, I was legally an adult, emotionally raw and completely unprepared. Until then, I thought “heartbreak” was something that only came from romantic loss — crying in your car to sad music over a crush who didn’t text back. But losing my mom taught me that heartbreak can also come from something much deeper: the absence of someone who helped shape your entire world.

That loss was my first crash course in grief

Wellness isn’t just about the body — it’s about the spirit too. When your faith and heart align, healing begins within.

When clients come into my office, one of the most common themes I hear is: “I just don’t feel good enough.”

It doesn’t matter if they’re high achievers, parents, students, or high-level executives; the underlying struggle is the same. Low self-esteem doesn’t discriminate, and it often shows up in very subtle ways.

Relationships are beautiful, but they can also bring unique challenges when you and your partner come from different cultural backgrounds. Embracing those differences with curiosity and respect can strengthen your bond and open new doors of understanding.

When someone we care about is hurting, our instinct is often to do something — offer solutions, cheer them up, or try to help them “move past” what’s wrong. While these intentions usually come from a place of love, they can sometimes backfire. The way we listen can either deepen connection and emotional safety, or it can unintentionally make someone feel unheard and alone.

Two common styles of responding — empathetic listening and dismissive listening

Feeling stretched thin between work and life? You’re not alone — and you don’t have to choose one over the other. In this video, we’re sharing practical, real-life tips to help you create a healthier balance without burning out.

In my work as a couples therapist, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside a variety of partners as they navigate the intricacies of love, commitment, and communication. For couples where neurodivergence plays a role—whether through ADHD, autism, or other neurological variations—the journey often can include unique challenges, but also incredible strengths. With patience, openness, and understanding, couples can build deeply fulfilling relationships that honor both individuality and connection.

Understanding Neurodivergence vs. Personality Differences