The Psychology of Relationships

We don’t just show up to relationships as adults — we show up with every belief we learned long before. Those early schemas — the quiet stories like “I’m not enough,” “People always leave,” or “Love has to be earned” — shape our patterns far more than we realize. In this episode, Julie and Yue sit down with psychologist and schema expert Dr. Avigail Lev to break down how these core beliefs form, why they’re so sticky, and how understanding them can transform the way we love. Dr. Lev explains how identifying your schemas helps you interrupt old cycles, build more secure connections, and finally rewrite the patterns that keep you stuck.In this episode, you’ll learn:What schemas are and why these beliefs are hard to shakeHow your early experiences shape the way you show up in relationshipsWhich thoughts keep you stuck in the same love trapsWhy you’re drawn to certain types of partners and patternsHow to recognize the subconscious beliefs guiding your behaviorPractical ways to change your behavior and create the love life you wantTo learn more about Dr. Avigail Lev: visit: https://bayareacbtcenter.com/therapist/avigail-lev-psyd/To take the relationship schemas quiz: visit https://bayareacbtcenter.com/relationship-schema-quiz/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The reality is: no relationship is perfect. Conflict happens. Sometimes we hurt each other — even in the healthiest partnerships. But what truly matters is how we respond. In this episode, Julie and Yue sit down with licensed therapist Vienna Pharaon and men’s work leader Connor Beaton to explore why repair — not perfection — is the real foundation of a healthy relationship. Drawing from their own lived experience (including navigating new parenthood) and the work they do with couples every day, Vienna and Connor break down how accountability, compassion, and intentional repair can turn moments of rupture into opportunities for deeper connection.In this episode, you’ll learn:How to Practice Real Accountability in Your RelationshipHow to Repair After Conflict in a Way That Builds TrustHow to Understand the Patterns You Bring from Your Family of OriginHow to Communicate During Tense Moments Without EscalatingHow to Reconnect Emotionally After You’ve Hurt Each OtherHow to Stay a Team Through Stress, Change, and New Life TransitionsTo learn more about Vienna: follow @mindfulmft and visit: https://viennapharaon.com/To learn more about Connor: follow @mantalks and visit https://connorbeaton.com/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

They break relationships into six foundational pillars and explain why patterns and histories shape responses. They discuss better communication, repair strategies after conflict, and how to regulate emotions to offer real support. They cover reciprocity, teamwork, managing expectations across life phases, and building shared rituals to deepen connection.

This is The Psychology of Relationships out 11/20/25. Subscribe now so you get all the episodes. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy