Empowered Relationship Podcast: Your Relationship Resource And Guide

In this special episode, the Empowered Relationship Podcast deviates from its usual format of interviewing experts to provide dedicated attention to addressing a listener's thought-provoking questions. The question centers around a familiar dynamic often observed in relationships, where one partner finds themselves leaning away from the relationship while the other remains invested and leaning in. Listener’s Questions “How do you come to terms in a marriage of holding true to your commitment of loyalty for life, sticking through the "for worse", and being able to trust your judgment at the time you chose your spouse? Specifically the self-blame of trusting yourself on the decision of who to marry, and/or breaking your own promise of being true to your word at the time.” “Understanding wife say I just want to be roommates, we work great as a team co-parenting kids and taking care of the house, and what this means coming on the heels of an affair?” Quick Story “In the initial wake of the revelation, I thought wow I was an awful person as she brought up things I didn't do or when she felt hurt, but through a year of discussions with a psychologist and an independent therapist I realized a lot of these are coming from her insecurities and anxiety and attempts at justifying her affair. I'm not without fault - I was not emotionally available as much as I needed to be for her and during our marriage she felt like I did things that made her feel like she needed to change things about herself in order to be someone who she thought I wanted her to be. (If that makes sense?). I've learned a lot of tools I can use, but a lot of them seem to work within the confines of making the marriage better, but right now she's not there yet. My wife came clean about an emotional affair she had and exhibited all the traits of limerence by blaming me for it, rewriting our history into a negative sentiment override, "I care for you but not in love with you", and now maintains the position that she felt like we were roommates before the affair,  so she wants to keep living like that now while she works on herself. She's been clear that she doesn't want any deeper emotional discussions (unless it's about the past), zero physical affection in any way, no "I love you's" or pet names, etc. We did 5 sessions of MC and got to the point where the counselor said we have a lot of great things between us but if she's not committed to the marriage,  then it'll be hard to do the work. The most striking line he said to my wife was "The problem isn't with your husband, the problem would be with whoever happened to be sitting in this chair. " She acknowledges she's broken, gave too much of herself, and lost who she was as a person, but she's in a highly stressful job and doesn't want to seek a therapist or help on her own, she has said she just needs the space to figure out who she is and what she wants. She seems to want/expect feelings to come back naturally if it's meant to be while we remain in this "friend" state and doesn't want to force things between us. I appreciate the work you do in helping couples and look forward to your podcasts each week.” Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 7:40 Listeners’s questions on how to come to terms with unrequited love. 13:57 Coping with the pain and uncertainty of a partner pulling away. 17:00 Identifying the relational cycle and understanding the underlying dynamics in your relationship. 22:47 Embracing ambivalence: Discovering new paths through discernment counseling. 32:34 Rediscovering commitments and finding meaning in marriage. 43:18 The importance of developing fresh approaches to relating with your partner. Dr. Jessica Higgins's Recommendations Disclaimer: Please note that the insights and feedback provided by Dr. Jessica Higgins are based solely on the information provided by the listener. Assumptions have been made regarding the listener's willingness to work on the relationship, the duration of their partnership, and the absence of specific clinical diagnoses. As each individual's circumstances are unique, the guidance offered should be considered general and not personalized advice. Dr. Jessica Higgins will do her best to address the listener's question given the available information. Acknowledge the Pain Discovering that your partner has been unfaithful and witnessing their emotional detachment from the relationship can be an incredibly painful and disorienting experience. It's natural to feel a wide range of emotions, including shock, anger, desperation, and sadness. During this time, seeking support from a therapist or counselor can be immensely helpful in processing these emotions and providing stability for both you and your children. Identify the Cycle Together  Understanding the dynamics of your relationship is crucial to finding a way forward. In the aftermath of an affair, it's essential to recognize that there may have been underlying issues and unmet needs that contributed to the breakdown of trust. This might include the experience of limerence, a state of infatuation or fantasy that can cloud judgment and lead to emotional affairs. By exploring these dynamics together, through exercises such as those found in the book "Hold Me Tight," you can gain insight into each other's perspectives and work towards rebuilding trust. Make Room for Ambivalence In situations where one partner expresses a desire to be roommates and wants to focus on personal growth, it's crucial to create space for ambivalence. Discernment counseling, a specialized form of therapy, can be beneficial in helping couples gain clarity and confidence in determining the future of their relationship. This process allows both partners to explore their true desires and intentions while relieving the pressure to make immediate decisions. It also presents an opportunity for individual self-reflection and personal growth. Do Your Work  Throughout this journey, it is vital for both partners to engage in self-reflection and personal growth. This involves examining your own contributions to the relationship dynamics and acknowledging areas where improvement is needed. While it may be tempting to place blame solely on the partner who had the affair, it's important to take responsibility for your own emotional availability and commitment to the relationship. This introspective work can pave the way for creating a healthier and more fulfilling partnership moving forward. Mentioned Hold Me Tight by Dr. Susan Johnson (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) *EFT Therapist Finder Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love ERP 015: Do You Have a “Unity” or “Journey” Mindset in Relationship? ERP 058: Beyond the Wedding. What Is Marriage Really Like? ERP 372: How to Work Together in Relationship for a Strong, Secure Connection — An Interview with Dr. Stan Tatkin ERP 373: How to Embrace Ambivalence When Making Big Relationship Decisions — An Interview with Rachel Zamore Discernment Counseling Identify The Cycle Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.  

Do you often find yourself struggling to navigate the complexities of life and relationships? Perhaps you feel disconnected from your own thoughts, emotions, and desires, and it's affecting your overall well-being. In a world filled with stress, anxiety, and constant distractions, it's easy to lose touch with our true selves. But what if there was a way to deepen your contact with yourself and transform every aspect of your life, including your relationships? In this episode, we delved into the powerful practice of meditation and mindfulness, exploring how they can help you develop self-awareness, regulate emotions, and build healthier connections. Join us as we uncover practical steps, insights, and valuable resources to guide you on this transformative journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Get ready to unlock the potential within you and experience profound positive changes in your life and relationships. Madhur-Nain Webster is a licensed marriage and family therapist, specializing in the integration of eastern and western philosophies for mental health for individuals and couples. Her first book, The Stressless Brain (2018), makes a scientific argument for the positive influence meditation has on the psyche; she is currently working on her second book. In addition to releasing over 60 meditation singles, Madhur-Nain maintains international outreach by appearing on podcasts and holding meditation workshops. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:57 Madhur-Nain Webster and her work in integrating Eastern and Western philosophies. 15:25 Finding what works: Exploring different forms of meditation. 20:39 Changing relationship dynamics and prioritizing needs. 26:25 The importance of practicing meditation even when it feels challenging or uncomfortable. 31:53 The influence of early upbringing and trauma on meditation practice. 36:16 The influence of meditation on the endocrine system and well-being. 39:54 Amplifying the benefits: Togetherness and community in meditation. 43:11 Couples meditation: Connecting through synchronized breath. 48:28 Self-reflection and emotional recognition: Navigating feedback and challenging toxic shame 52:03 Understanding the difference between anxiety and stress. Mentioned The Stressless Brain: Reducing Stress and Anxiety through the Power of Meditation and Psychology (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) The Feeling Good Handbook (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Type Of Relationship Support (survey) Connect with Madhur-Nain Webste Websites: madhurnain.com Facebook: facebook.com/madhurnainwebster YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCOof1-ACJXP9SufPBHbQeQw Instagram: instagram.com/madhurnain Spotify: spotify.com/artist/5wvZFb0E0Ybc4oSdlDSn0h Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.  

Are you yearning for a relationship that brims with passion, connection, and a profound level of intimacy that goes beyond the physical? Many individuals find themselves longing for a deeper bond with their partners, seeking to break free from the stagnation of routine and reignite the spark that once ignited their love. In this insightful episode, we delve into the transformative power of embracing honesty in sexual intimacy as a means to cultivate a stronger connection, unlock hidden depths of intimacy, and rekindle the flames of passion within your relationship. Discover how this pathway of honest expression can pave the way for a more fulfilling and passionate love life, where pleasure, trust, and genuine connection thrive. As a relationship coach for 20 years, Shana James has humbly discovered the causes of disconnection in relationships and how to keep the passion alive. Shana has a Master’s in psychology, DISC, and Positive Intelligence certifications, and has facilitated decades of Authentic Relating workshops. Shana specializes in helping people after divorce and hosts the Man Alive podcast. She is the author of Honest Sex: A Passionate Path to Deepen Connection and Keep Relationships Alive and her TEDx Talk is "What 1000 Men's Tears Reveal About the Crisis Between Men and Women.” Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:41 Shana James’ impactful journey of empowering men in love, sex, intimacy, and connections. 10:57 Expanding the understanding of sex: From fast food to four-dimensional experience. 16:57 Moving from reaction to response: Effective communication about sex for deeper intimacy. 22:23 Building agreements and teamwork for open communication. 26:00 The power of affirmation: Guiding conversations with virtues and requests. 31:40 Shifting from criticism to gratitude. 36:48 Overcoming exhaustion and rebuilding intimacy. 41:20 Embracing non-sexual forms of intimacy. 52:38 Free resources and ways to connect with Shana. Mentioned Honest Sex: A Passionate Path to Deepen Connection and Keep Relationships Alive (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) What 1000 Men’s Tears Reveal by Shana James (*TEDx on Youtube) Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Connect with Shana James Websites: shanajamescoaching.com Facebook: facebook.com/truesuccessformen LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shana-james-3004065 Podcast: shanajamescoaching.com/man-alive-podcast Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

Cultivating personal and relational well-being can be a challenging task, especially when faced with negative communication patterns and misunderstandings. However, it is essential for individuals to prioritize their innate mental health and create a bond of love and connection with their partners. In this episode, Dr. Kalen Hammann and Dr. Jessica Higgins delve into the intricate challenges that couples face while building and sustaining lasting intimacy. They provide valuable insights into transforming negative communication patterns into connected communication. They also shed light on the different phases of therapy, the significance of building positive energy, and the importance of recognizing fear and learning to calm down through relaxation techniques. After getting a Ph.D. in Social Psychology, working as a psychotherapist, and teaching business executives in over 50 Fortune 500 companies on five continents how to get along better, Dr. Kalen Hammann discovered that NONE of that helped him save his own marriage! He's here to tell us what HAS helped him and his wife and now is helping other couples get off the Road to Divorce and find their way to "Happily Ever After.” Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 05:43 From corporate America to intimate relationships: Journey of personal and professional growth. 09:09 Finding hope in the Modello approach: A story of overcoming marriage problems. 12:58 Roger Mills’ success story in improving Florida’s housing project. 19:02 Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde: Our positive qualities obscured by negative emotions. 24:26 A guide to cultivating personal and relational well-being. 26:01 Settling the conflict and finding insights: A mindful approach to disagreements. 33:26 The power of Long exhales: Calming the nervous system and cultivating inner peace. 35:59 Building positive energy: Turning towards bids and small actions in relationships. 39:55 Recognizing our fear: Understanding the root cause of negative emotions. 46:41 Rediscovering love: Finding your way back to love and happily ever after. Mentioned Date Your Mate: How to Save Your Marriage from "The Blahs” and Live Happily Ever After (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Modello: A Story of Hope for the Inner City and Beyond: An Inside-Out Model of Prevention and Resiliency in Action (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Dr. Kalen Hammann Websites: lessfightingmoreloving.com Calendly: TalkWithKalen.com Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.    

Relationships are beautiful, intricate webs of connection and understanding, but they can also be challenging to navigate, especially when gender differences come into play. In this episode, we delved into the complexities of how gender dynamics can impact our interactions with our partners. From the importance of attunement and nurturing attitudes to recognizing and addressing each other's needs, we explored valuable insights that can help foster healthier and more fulfilling relationships. One of the key takeaways from this discussion was the significance of being in service of the greater good within a relationship. Rather than getting caught up in defending opposing views or trying to win arguments, it's essential to shift our focus towards understanding and supporting each other's deeper needs and desires. By harnessing this nurturing attitude and seeking to understand our partners on a deeper level, we can build stronger foundations of support and care. Dr. Ricky Arenson is a highly regarded Endocrinologist specializing in hormones and Geriatrician. He has been happily married to Katherine, an ER specialist and medical inventor, for two decades. Together with their four children, they live in Perth, Western Australia. Dr. Arenson is a multi-award-winning medical leader, holding the esteemed position of Head of the Department of Geriatric Medicine at Royal Perth Hospital, where he also serves as a Hospital Director. Additionally, he has authored the thought-provoking book, "Women are Superior to Men," and showcases his comedic talents as a freelance comedian. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 6:39 Hormone-related issues can cause relationship problems. 11:38 From teaching doctors to writing a book: The journey of Dr. Ricky Arenson 15:27 Common gender differences that affect relationships and strategies for negotiating conflicts. 22:19 Challenging stereotypes: Embracing individuality within gender differences. 25:57 Fluidity and diverse aspects of gender: Recognizing the masculine and feminine within. 29:58 Evolutionary perspectives and gender roles: Exploring differences and complementary attributes. 35:34 The importance of taking care of each other. 41:40 The importance of timing and understanding what you want. 45:18 Bringing humor and enjoyment into the relationship space. Mentioned Women Are Superior to Men: The Real Secret to a Fantastic Marriage, Joyful Parenting & Better Sex! (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Type Of Relationship Support (survey) Connect with Dr. Ricky Arenson Websites: drrickyarenson.com Facebook: facebook.com/drrickyarenson Podcast: open.spotify.com/show/1IYdw1kwt8l7CKUaERFiC0 Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.  

In today's fast-paced and overwhelming world, it's no surprise that emotions often become a tangled web, hindering our ability to authentically connect with ourselves and others. With a staggering 90% of people never receiving regular counseling or therapy, the need for accessible tools that can reach a wider audience becomes paramount. Join us in this thought-provoking episode as we delve into the vital topic of processing emotions for greater clarity and connection. This conversation uncovers the common obstacles individuals face when attempting to navigate their emotions effectively. More importantly, we explore an innovative approach to emotional processing that aims to bridge this gap, allowing individuals to tap into their innate capacity for connection. Don't miss out—tune in and unlock the keys to processing emotions for a more fulfilling and connected existence. Drs. Glenn and Phyllis Hill spent the first 30 years of marriage living disconnected. Dr. Glenn was so determined to find out what went wrong that he went back to school and became a Marriage and Family Therapist and a Clinical Sexologist. It wasn't until he dug deep into emotional regulation that he discovered the source of their disconnect. From there, Dr. Glenn & Phyllis created The Connection Codes which is a framework to help couples connect emotionally and physically using their 4-minute tool. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:10 The journey to unveiling The Connection Codes Framework. 12:07 The power of vulnerability: Unveiling deeper layers of understanding. 17:22 Glenn and Phyllis’ individual journeys within their relationship. 22:06 The importance of emotional breakthroughs. 26:40 The birth of the Core Motion Wheel and its transformative impact. 34:48 The breakthrough: Reversing disconnection to foster connection. 37:53 Real-life application and global impact of emotional tools. 44:37 The importance of processing emotions for regulation and well-being. Mentioned Connection Codes (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Type Of Relationship Support (survey) Connect with Dr. Glenn & Phyllis Hill Websites: https://www.connectioncodes.co/ Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/connection-codes/id1613594520 (*Apple podcast) Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.  

Intimacy in a relationship is a beautiful and fulfilling experience, but finding harmony between a deep connection and maintaining a sense of self is a delicate dance that many couples strive to master. It's a journey of self-discovery and growth that requires navigating the fine line between connection and autonomy. In this thought-provoking conversation, relationship experts Amber Price and Dr. Jessica Higgins, unravel the complexities of this subject, offering valuable insights and practical advice for individuals seeking to preserve their individuality while fostering a deep bond with their partner. The discussion delved into the concept of emotional fusion, sharing personal stories and exploring strategies to break free from its grip. With a focus on open communication, self-awareness, and conscious decision-making, this conversation provides a roadmap for cultivating a strong sense of self within the context of a loving and intimate relationship. Amber Price is a relationship expert, educator, and researcher who teaches people to build better relationships without losing who they are. She is currently finishing a PhD in Marriage, Family, and Human Development, and she’s also a mom to four boys and wife to a chemistry professor who loves baking and eating cookies and drinking hot chocolate. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 6:32 Amber’s journey of self-discovery and personal growth. 9:07 Unpacking grumpiness: Overwhelm, exhaustion, and the need for self-care. 10:51 Balancing relatedness and autonomy. 14:23 The role of relationship security in developing autonomy. 17:07 Challenging cultural expectations particularly among women or individuals who identify as women. 19:34 The fine line between conscious choice and unhealthy pressure in caregiving. 23:32 Accessing conscious choice: Stepping back and examining priorities. 25:26 Recognizing and challenging unconscious patterns for personal growth. 30:40 Rediscovering authenticity: Exploring personal values and joy. 37:21 Connecting through shared experiences: The power of authenticity. 41:14 Finding balance and cultivating emotional autonomy. Mentioned Reclaiming ME (mini-course) Authentically YOU (course) Type Of Relationship Support (survey) Connect with Amber Price Websites: amberaprice.com Facebook: facebook.com/amber.a.price.authenticallyyou Instagram: instagram.com/amber.a.price Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.  

Military couples face a unique set of challenges that can put their relationships to the test. From long deployments and frequent relocations to the emotional toll of separation and the weight of responsibility, they often find themselves in situations where maintaining connection and emotional well-being become paramount. But despite the extraordinary circumstances they face, military couples exemplify unwavering strength, commitment, and love. In this episode, Bree Carroll and Dr. Jessica Higgins explored how to maintain a healthy relationship amidst the demands and stress levels experienced by these couples, highlighting the remarkable resilience, intentional efforts, and unwavering commitment demonstrated in their quest to nurture love and sustain a thriving partnership. Bree Carroll, military spouse, event strategist, and speaker, transforms spaces and hearts through experience design and purposeful planning. As a voice in the military community, she holds the title as 2020-2021 AFI Air Force Spouse of the Year and advocates to strengthen military marriages. Bree is the founder of Military Marriage Day, a national holiday celebrated annually on August 14th.  More than a holiday, this movement supports military families with resources through its app, insight with the Hearts & Stripes Podcast, and connection through its annual events and virtual programming. Bree’s mission is to encourage and equip couples, especially our service couples, so that they may intentionally thrive in their marriage relationship. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 8:31 Understanding the unique challenges of military couples. 16:47 The importance of strengthening military marriages and supporting service families. 25:07 Proactive approach to strengthening military marriages and providing resources. 30:11 The power of storytelling and proactive support in military marriages. 35:59 Insights from a military marriage study: Challenges and hope. 42:35 The power of celebration: Elevating Military Marriage Day. 49:52 Taking action and spreading hope. Mentioned Military Marriage Day (*Apple Appstore) (app) Type Of Relationship Support (survey) Connect with Bree Carroll Websites: militarymarriageday.com Facebook: facebook.com/militarymarriageday YouTube: youtube.com/@militarymarriageday Instagram: instagram.com/militarymarriageday Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.      

Relationships often confront us with moments of uncertainty, where conflicting emotions and wavering decisions leave us feeling overwhelmed. But, what if we could view ambivalence as an opportunity for personal growth, self-discovery, and empowered decision-making? In this enlightening discussion with relationship expert Rachel Zamore and Dr. Jessica Higgins, we explored profound insights into navigating the intricate landscape of ambivalence in relationships. From recognizing the significance of self-care to cultivating compassion, this episode provides a roadmap for embracing ambivalence and making impactful relationship choices with clarity and confidence. If you currently stand at the crossroads of a significant relationship decision, unsure of which path to choose, join us on this transformative journey. Together, we will uncover empowering principles that guide you towards embracing ambivalence and making choices that honor your personal growth, authenticity, and overall well-being. Rachel Zamore is a leading practitioner in discernment counseling, a process that helps couples on the brink gain confidence and clarity about the next best steps for their marriage. Rachel’s compassionate, nonjudgmental approach empowers honest self-reflection and welcomes each person right where they are. Drawing from 15 years as an integrative psychotherapist, relationship guide (Certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy & Discernment Counseling) and trainer, Rachel coaches individuals and couples online and at private retreats worldwide. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:55 Igniting a passion: Rachel Zamore’s journey to empower couples in ambiguous relationships 10:19 Rachel’s revolutionary approach to couples in crisis. 12:31 Common mistakes in couples therapy unveiled. 16:51 Appreciating ambivalence and embracing complexity in relationship dynamics. 20:39 The transformative power of providing a supportive container for couples grappling with difficult and anxiety-provoking issues. 25:05 Unpacking the cumulative effect of ambivalence in relationships. 30:26 Discernment counseling: Differentiating hard and soft reasons, and individual growth. 35:59 About Rachel’s intensive sessions and retreats, individual and relational growth. 39:49 Outcomes and statistics of discernment counseling. 45:11 Encouragement and advice for finding clarity and well-being. Mentioned Type Of Relationship Support (survey) Connect with Rachel Zamore Websites: relationshipcrossroads.com | innerwell.org LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rachelzamore Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.        

Building a strong and secure connection within a romantic relationship is a goal shared by many. We strive for harmony, understanding, and a deep bond that withstands the test of time. But with human nature being what it is - aggressive, warlike, moody, and easily influenced - it can be a challenging task. So, how do we achieve this level of connection? Is it about finding the perfect partner or following a set of rules? In this episode, Dr. Stan Tatkin and Dr. Jessica Higgins embark on an enlightening exploration of human behavior within relationships shedding light on key elements that foster a strong and secure connection. Join us as we delve into the strategies and insights that can help you and your partner work together to create a solid foundation of love, trust, and mutual support. Stan Tatkin, PsyD, MFT Clinician, author, researcher, PACT developer, and co-founder of the PACT Institute. Dr. Tatkin is an assistant clinical professor at UCLA, David Geffen School of Medicine. He maintains a private practice in Southern California and leads PACT programs in the US and internationally. He is the author of We Do, Wired for Love, Your Brain on Love, Relationship Rx, Wired for Dating, What Every Therapist Ought to Know, and co-author of Love and War in Intimate Relationships, and the upcoming, In Each Other’s Care. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 6:01 In Each Other’s Care: Practical Guidance on Applying the Principles of Secure Functioning 10:56 Normalizing stressful situations and creating purpose-centered relationships. 15:36 Preserving relationships through proactive engagement. 26:05 Creating purposeful relationships: moving beyond psycho-biology to action. 30:37 Embracing a collaborative stance: Exploring partner’s needs and approaching conversations with mutual interest. Mentioned Type Of Relationship Support (survey) In Each Other's Care: A Guide to the Most Common Relationship Conflicts and How to Work Through Them (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Learn How to Interact When Conflicts Arise (excerpt) We Do: Saying Yes to a Relationship of Depth, True Connection, and Enduring Love (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Wired for Love: How Understanding Your Partner’s Brain and Attachment Style Can Help You Defuse Conflict and Build a Secure Relationship (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Your Brain on Love: The Neurobiology of Healthy Relationships (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Relationship Rx (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Wired for Dating: How Understanding Neurobiology and Attachment Style Can Help You Find Your Ideal Mate (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Love and War in Intimate Relationships: Connection, Disconnection, and Mutual Regulation in Couple Therapy (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) ERP 291: How “Love Is Not Enough” – An Interview with Dr. Stan Tatkin Relationship Map To Happy, Lasting Love Shifting Criticism For Connected Communication Connect with Dr. Stan Tatkin Websites: thepactinstitute.com Facebook: facebook.com/drstantatkin Twitter: twitter.com/DrStanTatkin LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/stan-tatkin Instagram: instagram.com/drstantatkin Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.