A trauma-informed therapist explains the 13 signs of a high-quality therapist, what excellent therapy looks like, and how the therapeutic relationship rewires the brain for healing.

Couples today are navigating expectations no previous generation had: two-working-parent households, emotional labor, trauma awareness, shifting gender roles, and attachment needs. No one taught us how to do this. But you can learn.

Every relationship moves through seasons. Some are full of light and effortless connection; others feel heavier, confusing, or even lonely. Understanding these four core relationship phases—Honeymoon, Realization, Tension, and Acceptance—helps couples normalize the ups and downs and intentionally move toward a deeper, more grounded love.

According to Drs. John and Julie Gottman, the “Masters of Relationships” aren’t conflict-free. They simply make repair attempts early and often—sometimes dozens within a single conversation.