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Therapists often use the term "family of origin" to describe the people and environment that shaped you while you were growing up. Talking about them may feel like an unnecessary step that brings up old issues that are no longer pertinent. Or it may even feel like you’re blaming your early family for why you are struggling now. The purpose is not to place blame or label your childhood as “bad,” or the people who raised you as “bad.” Exploring your upbringing can help you un

If you've been thinking about therapy, you may also be wondering whether it's worth the time, money, and emotional energy. You might think that talking to someone won’t make life better and will only dredge up old problems and raise more issues. I’m not going to sugarcoat it: Therapy may be difficult and challenging temporarily, but the right therapist will help you work through the heavy topics in a supportive and productive manner. Over time, you will feel relief from lett

One of the biggest reasons couples delay therapy is because one partner is ready to try it while the other isn't on board. If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. It's common for one person to be hopeful about counseling while the other feels skeptical, nervous, or resistant. Many couples—even those with different levels of enthusiasm about therapy—find that counseling helps them communicate more effectively, understand each other's perspectives, and strengthen their relat

Most of us learned to say "I'm sorry" as children. But many of us were never taught what makes an apology meaningful—or why some apologies help repair relationships while others leave us feeling even more hurt. But have you ever thought about what makes a good apology, or how your apology is received by the other person? You may have received an apology from your partner, friend, and/or family member that sounds like: “I’m sorry you feel that way, but…” and these apologies d