Relationships

Robert Clarke MFT

When in doubt, don't text!

You can try using emoticons, but more than anything else, your mood when you read a text changes how you interpret it.

Robert Clarke MFT

Is it us or is it COVID?

This is a good time to have some conversations about external pressures that are affecting you and your partner.

Robert Clarke MFT

That's not what I meant!

When we’re calm, we might misunderstand something we hear but instead of reacting, we will ask a question, or just dismiss it.

Robert Clarke MFT

Somebody has to be the big kid.

Summarizing what you’re hearing can be very powerful in its ability to diffuse an argument, and it only takes a moment.

Robert Clarke MFT

You're invited!

Communications can be so confusing, especially when our culture seems to train men and women differently.

Robert Clarke MFT

Try taking turns.

Taking turns making a decision can provide some variety and eliminate the need for what can sometimes be a long, drawn-out negotiation.

Robert Clarke MFT

Is the bar too high?

Our culture seems to label any marriage a failure if a couple decides to end it before someone dies of old age.

Robert Clarke MFT

One thing you can do to improve your relationship: Learn to listen.

When you hear someone complaining about a problem you usually want to help. But unless fixing is requested, help means listening.

Welcome to my blog. This is where I post some of my thoughts and personal opinions about therapy and about life in general.

Robert Clarke MFT