Couples today face many challenges. Tough economic conditions, changing world views on marriage and family and exploding technology. Social media offers texting, sexting, and every kind of social networking you can imagine. Raising children and adolescents has become an all-encompassing endeavor as parents struggle to stay one-step ahead of the ever changing barrage of issues that confront their kids daily. …

1. Teen will not use any alcohol or drugs. Consequence: Teen will be grounded for one week. Grounding consists of: staying home, no friends as guests, no phone calls, etc. etc.) Punishment will increase one week for each subsequent offense (i.e., if teen is caught using substances a second time, punishment will be for two weeks, etc.) Make sure consequences …

Being deceived by someone that we love can be the most traumatic event of our life. The following tips can help you to make it through the initial days after infidelity has been discovered. 1. Be sure you have your facts strait. Do not rely on second-hand information. This means it is only fact if you or someone you trust …

• Parents should set aside time to meet together and plan out exactly what will be said to defiant teen. Once decided do not deviate from the plan. • Decide on who will be the spokesperson. Only one parent should speak during the meeting. Nodding in agreement or using positive body language is fine. Body contact between parents is also …

In todays society the use of social media has reached an all-time high. Social media is used in almost every aspect of our lives including, career, healthcare, education and socialization. It is avenue for meeting new friends and reconnecting with old ones. It is a powerful tool for positive change. However, a rapidly escalating number of couples are seeking counseling …

1. LISTENING- The most important component of communication. Listening involves exercising a combination of skills including direct eye-contact, attention to facial cues and focus on verbal tone. 2. BLOCKING – Blocking happens when we shut-down our listening ability with preconceived beliefs about another individual. We think “we know” what they are going to say. 3. ELIMINATING “YOU” WORDS- When we …

Divorce is traumatic for children regardless of the circumstances. Many children are left feeling sad, confused and angry. Anxiety can create difficulties at home and at school as they struggle to understand what is happening. Below are two of four proactive steps that can be implemented by concerned parents in the weeks before divorce. These steps will help children to …

Building trust after infidelity is a difficult task. When a partner has been involved in infidelity, the faithful spouse or significant-other feels shocked and betrayed. A myriad of emotions collide including anger, disbelief, overwhelming sadness and panic. These emotions are all part of the initial reaction. In order to move forward, each partner must accept that a “life-changing” event has …

In these economic times, couples struggle more than ever to keep their relationship intact. The following list is just some signs that might indicate a problem is brewing. Some topics you can work out on your own and then some topics you will need to seek the help of a professional to work through. A good marriage counselor will guide …