So, you’re in a relationship. Congrats! But, if you’re like most couples, at some point, you’ve probably noticed this weird back-and-forth dynamic. You want to connect, but your partner is hiding in the other room. Or maybe you’re the one making excuses to avoid the third “let’s talk” of the week. This, my friends, is […]

Emotional immaturity can manifest in various ways, making relationships challenging and draining. From the narcissist to the victim, emotionally immature individuals can exhibit toxic behaviors that can be detrimental to your well-being. In this blog we will explore the signs of emotional immaturity, the different types of emotionally immature people, and most importantly, how to […]

Emotional intimacy is the glue that keeps relationships solid, but honestly, it can feel like a total mystery sometimes. Whether you’re in a long-term relationship or just getting started, it’s common to hit roadblocks when trying to connect emotionally. Some folks even try to fill the emotional gap with physical intimacy—because, hey, sex is easier to […]

When we talk about couples therapy, the word “communication” comes up a lot. With that in mind, I want to talk about one specific model of communication styles, Virginia Satir’s Model of Communication. This model introduces four distinct communication stress styles: Placater, Blamer, Computer, and Distracter. Communication stress styles refer to the different ways in […]

Family plays a crucial role in shaping individuals’ identities and relationships. I want to explore the significance of family roles, and how they impact individuals. Each family member often assumes a specific role within their family dynamic, and often that can inform how they show up in relationships. We will delve into how these roles […]

Why is Anger the Most Acceptable Male Emotion? Ever wonder why anger seems to be the go-to emotion for men? As a a therapist in Hermosa Beach working with both couples and individuals, I hear this question all the time. Whether it’s in the therapy room or even in casual conversations, people often ask why […]

Are Feelings Real? Understanding Emotions from a Therapist’s Perspective “Are feelings real? Are we actually feeling reality?” As a therapist, working with both couples and individuals in Hermosa Beach and the South Bay area (and virtually for all you California folks), I hear these questions all the time. Feelings are a central part of being […]

Ever catch yourself asking, “Am I being too sensitive or just a little too dramatic right now?” If so, you’re definitely not alone. A lot of us have those moments where we question our reactions and wonder if we’re over the top or simply overthinking. Spoiler alert: overthinking has a way of turning the volume […]

In relationships, effective communication stands as the cornerstone, and at its heart lies the often overlooked art of listening. As a couples therapist, who works with clients in person in Hermosa Beach and virtually in California, I’ve witnessed how genuine listening can deepen connections, foster understanding, and ultimately strengthen the bond between partners. The Power […]