As we journey through life, there comes a time when we pause, look around, and realize that things have changed.

The home we built—both literally and metaphorically—might be showing signs of wear and tear.

Just as we might consider renovating our physical spaces to better suit our current needs, we can also consider "renovating" our relationships during midlife.

This concept of midlife renovations offers couples a chance to refresh, reinvigorate, and recommit to their partnership for the next chapter of life.

Intimate relationships thrive on balance, yet many couples find themselves tipping precariously due to an often unseen burden—the invisible load.

This term captures the mental, emotional, and cognitive labor required to manage a household and family life, much of which goes unrecognized and unshared.

The weight of this invisible load can strain relationships to the breaking point, leading to resentment, burnout, and emotional distance.

What is the Invisible Load?

Money can't buy love, but financial inequality can certainly put it to the test.

In today’s world, where dual-income households are the norm and financial independence is highly valued, disparities in earnings between partners can lead to significant challenges.

This post explores the impact of financial inequality on intimacy in relationships, delving deep into power dynamics, resentment, and even the potential for infidelity.

We’ll examine the latest social science research, pose thought-provoking questions, and offer practical advice for couples navigating these complex issues.

Marriage, often heralded as the pinnacle of romantic commitment, can undergo a series of challenges that, if left unchecked, can lead to its decline.

Recognizing the stages of a dying marriage is crucial for both partners to address issues early and take necessary steps to potentially salvage the relationship.

This comprehensive blog post explores these stages in depth, supported by social science research and practical insights.

The declaration "marriage is dead" might sound hyperbolic, but numerous studies and cultural shifts suggest that the institution of marriage is indeed under significant threat.

From changing societal norms to economic pressures, the traditional concept of marriage and the nuclear family is evolving rapidly.

This post explores the research behind these changes, what might be supplanting marriage, and the future of the nuclear family in an age characterized by individualism and high costs of raising children.

Breaking up is hard to do.

Whether you’re the dumper or the dumpee, the end of a relationship can leave you feeling like you’ve been hit by a truck, followed by a parade of elephants, and maybe a rogue rhinoceros for good measure.

But fear not, gentle reader.

I'm here to help you navigate the tumultuous seas of heartache with compassion and some solid advice from thought leaders.

American families have changed a lot since the 1950s, sparking debates among scholars, politicians, and the public.

Let’s dive into the most pressing issues facing U.S. families today, armed with the latest social science evidence.

Imagine a world where mirrors are worshipped, selfies are a form of currency, and admiration is the ultimate aphrodisiac.

Now, step into the realm of romance between two narcissists.

Yes, it's a thing, and it's as fascinating as it is complex.

As a couples therapist, I've seen the dizzying highs and tumultuous lows of such relationships. Let's dive into this dazzling dance of love, ego, and self-adoration.

Love isn't just about finding the perfect partner and living happily ever after.

It requires effort, communication, and a willingness to address issues before they escalate.

One effective way to maintain a strong and healthy relationship is by conducting regular weekly check-ins with your partner.

Eloping, the act of running away to get married, has long been cloaked in an air of romance and rebellion.

For centuries, couples have chosen this path for various reasons, ranging from escaping familial opposition to seeking a more intimate and differentiated ceremony.

As a couples therapist with a keen interest in the social sciences, exploring the history and psychological underpinnings of elopement offers valuable insights into its enduring appeal and evolving role in modern relationships.

Is eloping making a comeback?

"Boysober" is not just a trend; it might be a cultural shift.

Originating from the witty brain of Brooklyn-based comedian Hope Woodard, the term refers to a self-imposed hiatus from romantic and sexual relationships.

This break allows folks to detox from the emotional and psychological hangovers caused by toxic dating patterns and to re-center themselves.

Think of it as a romantic reset button, a chance to turn off the notifications from dating apps and tune into the rhythm of your own life.

Welcome to my little "Relationship Anxiety Test," where we uncover the hidden jitters lurking in your love life!

I've crafted this quiz to help you gauge your relationship anxiety.

Whether you're cool as a cucumber or jittery as a squirrel on espresso, this quiz will reveal where you stand. Ready?