Couples Therapy & Relationship Wellness

By Tara Rullo, LCSW

In every relationship, disagreements and conflicts are inevitable. It’s completely natural for individuals with different perspectives, needs, and personalities to occasionally clash. However, the way we express our dissatisfaction or concerns can make all the difference between constructive communication and destructive arguments. Criticism, when not handled with care, can easily erode the foundations of a relationship. This is where the principles of Gottman Couples Therapy come into play, offering guidance on how to complain to your partner in a healthy and productive way.

By Tara Rullo, LCSW

When your marriage or romantic partnership is strained, distant, or full of conflict, it’s common to feel anxious and alone. Even when physically together, partners in troubled relationships may feel emotionally disconnected or isolated from each other.

Arguments with your significant other can become repetitive and cyclical — and it’s hard to know how to break out of unhealthy patterns, even when you want to. Ongoing unresolved issues usually lead to feelings of frustration and a sense of helplessness with more and more unresolved complaints building up into a pile of resentments.

By Tara Rullo, LCSW

We all have a level of intellect, logical reasoning and comprehension which we call IQ. More people are developing an understanding of the importance of EQ – emotional intelligence – which is the ability to understand and communicate about our own feelings as well as the feelings of others. But are you aware of a third level of awareness – RQ – relationship intelligence?

By Tara Rullo, LCSW

In relationships, conflict and disagreements are inevitable. However, certain negative communication patterns can become so destructive that they erode the very foundation of a partnership. Dr. John Gottman, renowned psychologist and relationship expert, identified these harmful behaviors as the “Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.”

By Tara Rullo, LCSW

There are countless approaches and techniques designed to help couples navigate the challenges that come with committed relationships. One particularly effective and research-backed method is Gottman Couples Therapy. Developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, this approach focuses on strengthening the friendship, deepening emotional connection, and enhancing intimacy between partners. Let’s explore some key principles of Gottman Couples Therapy, shedding light on why it has become a widely acclaimed approach for relationship enrichment.

By Tara Rullo, LCSW

One of the hardest things to do in any relationship is to take in negative feedback. If it is our spouse or partner who is giving us feedback, especially if the feedback contains a complaint, we often react with defensiveness. While defensiveness is a natural response, it is one we must train ourselves out of if we want to create a safe environment for communication.