The Counseling Journal
Cultivating awareness, encouraging healthy behaviors, and the use of tools and skills for daily living.
Testing Your Compatibility - Living Together Before Marriage
When a couple decides to move in together some believe it is an opportunity to get to know the other person and stave off divorce by testing their compatibility. Can you get to know someone if they hide from you?
Who Would Use Sex to Reward or Punish Their Partner
Early in relationships, sex can be a measure of performance. As the relationship grows, sex can be used as a reward or punishment.
Happily Married Couples Change with the Seasons
The process of replacing the old with the new, or the hesitancy to fully embrace your current situation is similar to relationships. How can you renew your relationship?
Setting Goals is My Self-Care
It's time for a check-up. Seasons are changing and it is time to re-evaluate and refocus. Take some time to reflect on what went well and areas for improvement.
Happily Married Couples Don't Live on Autopilot
Do you or your partner function on autopilot? You have invested years into building a life with your spouse don't allow your relational muscle to atrophy. Read more about being intentional in your engagement.
Paint Me a Picasso
Take a self-care break and paint a picture of yourself. Amateur painters only!
Happily Married Couples Live with Boundaries
If your partner’s cell phone was left on the counter, what would you do? Would you see what you can see?
We Don’t Talk Anymore - Growing Apart
In the beginning, you talked all the time. What happened? When did you stop talking?
Let the Music Play
Do you have a song that you play to start your day? Which songs make get you in the mood? What are the songs that move you?
Painting Self-care
Finding new activities you enjoy is key to self-care. Today, let’s paint!
Depression Resource
There are numerous resources online with information on depression. NIMH is one.
Journaling Helps with Self-Awareness
Learn the reasons some people give as reasons why they don’t journal.
When Couples Stop Having Sex
In different phases of a relationship, couples can sacrifice sexual intimacy for children, work, or other responsibilities. Over time, neglecting this area breeds resentment and erodes your emotional connection.
Pausing to Observe the Beauty
We are surrounded by beauty. Go for a walk and take note of your surroundings.
What’s One Thing You do on Every Vacation?
What is something you try to do on any trip you take?
What Item do You Take on Most Vacations?
What is one item you almost always take on vacation?
Happily Married Couples Listen Intently
Yes, you’ve had a long day and you care about your partner. Engage and connect with them and discuss the highs and lows of the 9-15 hours spent away from you. Just sit and intently listen.