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Election Season and Your Relationship: Navigating the Political Tightrope Without Tripping
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Election Season and Your Relationship: Navigating the Political Tightrope Without Tripping

Election season can turn even the most harmonious homes into debate zones. Heated discussions, tense silences, and that dreaded phrase—“let’s agree to disagree”—suddenly become the norm. But what if there was a way to survive (and even thrive) during this politically charged time with your relationship intact? Discover how to handle political conversations with your partner without losing your cool or your connection. From setting boundaries to finding common ground, this post explores how to keep love front and center, even when ballots and beliefs don’t line up.

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Competition in Relationships: Why It’s a Problem and How to Stop Keeping Score
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Competition in Relationships: Why It’s a Problem and How to Stop Keeping Score

Ah, relationships—meant to be about love, support, and all those warm fuzzy feelings, right? But what happens when a little competition sneaks in? Suddenly, it’s like you’re keeping score of who did more, who’s “winning” the argument, and honestly—nobody wins that game. If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “I’ve done way more than my partner,” it might be time to hit pause. Relationships thrive on collaboration, not competition, and keeping score only creates resentment and distance. So, how do you shift from competing to teaming up? Let’s dive in.

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From “Me vs. You” to “Us vs. the Problem”: Changing the Way We Fight in Relationships
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

From “Me vs. You” to “Us vs. the Problem”: Changing the Way We Fight in Relationships

Let’s face it: When you’re in the middle of an argument with your partner, it can feel like you’re gearing up for battle. Defenses up, best comebacks ready, and it’s all about winning. But here’s the problem with that approach—your partner starts feeling more like the enemy than your teammate. What if, instead of fighting against each other, you teamed up and tackled the real issue together? That’s where shifting from “me vs. you” to “us vs. the problem” comes in. And trust me, it’s a total game-changer.

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Why Do We Hold On to Resentments in Relationships? (And How to Let Them Go Before They Eat You Alive)
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Why Do We Hold On to Resentments in Relationships? (And How to Let Them Go Before They Eat You Alive)

Let’s be honest—resentment has a sneaky way of creeping into even the best relationships. One missed anniversary or yet another round of “who’s doing the dishes” and suddenly, you’re carrying around a ball of unresolved frustration that just keeps growing. The thing about resentment? It doesn’t sit quietly—it festers, building up until it spills over into every interaction. Sound familiar? Resentment may feel justified, but holding onto it only drives a wedge between you and your partner. The good news? It’s possible to let go and move forward without the baggage.

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Couples Therapy vs. Individual Therapy: Which Is Right for You?
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Couples Therapy vs. Individual Therapy: Which Is Right for You?

Ah, the age-old question: Do we need couples therapy, or is it just me that needs to talk to someone about how our latest argument somehow turned into a week of silent treatment? If you’re feeling stuck and unsure whether you and your partner should dive into couples therapy or if individual therapy might be more your speed, you’re definitely not alone. Many people find themselves at this crossroads, wondering what the right move is for their relationship. So, how do you decide which path to take? Let’s break it down—without all the technical jargon.

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Why We Fight: Understanding Conflict in Relationships and How to Resolve It
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Why We Fight: Understanding Conflict in Relationships and How to Resolve It

Conflict in relationships is inevitable, but it’s rarely about the surface issue. Instead, fights are often driven by deeper emotions like unmet needs or past wounds. While arguing with the person you love feels isolating and frustrating, it doesn’t have to pull you apart. Psychodynamic therapy helps couples uncover the underlying emotions fueling their conflicts, allowing them to communicate more effectively, resolve issues collaboratively, and repair the relationship after a fight. In doing so, conflict can become a way to strengthen the bond, not weaken it.

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Substance Abuse and Infidelity: Surprising Similarities and How They Impact Relationships
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Substance Abuse and Infidelity: Surprising Similarities and How They Impact Relationships

Substance abuse and infidelity—on the surface, they might seem worlds apart, but dig a little deeper, and you’ll find they have more in common than you think. Both are driven by a need for escape, secrecy, and the hope of filling a void. Whether it’s the lure of a forbidden romance or the temporary comfort of substances, both behaviors can wreak havoc on relationships, leaving broken trust and emotional pain in their wake. But here’s the thing: understanding the connection between addiction and cheating is the first step toward healing, both individually and as a couple.

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When Couples Disagree on Parenting: How Therapy Can Help You Find Common Ground
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

When Couples Disagree on Parenting: How Therapy Can Help You Find Common Ground

Parenting—it’s full of love, joy, and, let’s be honest, the occasional “How did we end up on opposite teams?” moment. Whether it’s a disagreement over bedtime, screen time, or handling a public tantrum, parenting can feel like a tug-of-war. The truth is, even couples who are in sync on most things can find themselves at odds when it comes to raising kids. So, how do you navigate these parenting disagreements without turning every conversation into a battle? That’s where couples therapy comes in, helping you work together, not against each other.

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Men and Emotions: Why It’s Okay to Feel (And Why It’s Not Weakness)
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Men and Emotions: Why It’s Okay to Feel (And Why It’s Not Weakness)

Let’s be real—society hasn’t exactly done men any favors when it comes to feeling their feelings. From a young age, many boys are told to “man up” or “stop crying,” which leads to the idea that emotions are a sign of weakness. Fast-forward to adulthood, and you’ve got men burying their feelings, only for them to resurface in some not-so-healthy ways. But here’s the truth: recognizing and expressing emotions isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s actually one of the strongest things you can do. Let’s flip the script on men and emotions.

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Why You Never Feel Good Enough: What’s Really Going On in Your Relationships
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Why You Never Feel Good Enough: What’s Really Going On in Your Relationships

Ever catch yourself thinking, “I’ll never be good enough”—whether it’s in your relationship, friendships, or even at work? That nagging voice whispering that you’re falling short no matter how hard you try is more common than you think. Spoiler alert: You’re not alone, and there’s a deeper reason why this feeling keeps showing up. From attachment theory to psychodynamic patterns, there’s a lot going on beneath the surface that explains why you might feel this way—and the good news is, once you understand it, you can start to break free from the cycle.

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My Partner Doesn’t Want to Go to Couples Therapy… Now What?
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

My Partner Doesn’t Want to Go to Couples Therapy… Now What?

So, you’ve finally decided that couples therapy might just be what your relationship needs—maybe things have been a little bumpy, or maybe you’re just trying to prevent a future disaster. But then your partner hits you with, “Nah, I’m good.” Ugh, frustrating, right? It’s like, “Really? You’d rather keep having the same fight on repeat for the next five years?” Before you throw in the towel, let’s talk about what might be going on and how to gently nudge them toward seeing the benefits of therapy (without scaring them off).

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Finding the Redeeming Qualities in Your Partner (Even When They Drive You Crazy)
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Finding the Redeeming Qualities in Your Partner (Even When They Drive You Crazy)

Let’s be honest—no one is perfect, and your partner? Definitely not the exception. We all have those quirks that can be maddening, but instead of focusing on what drives you nuts, let’s talk about something we often overlook: your partner’s redeeming qualities. Yep, those traits that remind you why you’re in this relationship in the first place. It’s easy to get lost in the daily frustrations, but when you shift your mindset to recognize the good—those moments that make you smile, feel supported, or laugh—it changes everything. Ready to dive into those qualities? Let’s go!

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Co-Parenting with a Difficult Ex: How to Keep Your Sanity and Stay Focused on the Kids
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Co-Parenting with a Difficult Ex: How to Keep Your Sanity and Stay Focused on the Kids

Co-parenting with a difficult ex can feel like a constant battle, but it doesn’t have to drive you crazy. The key? Keeping the focus on what truly matters: your kids. With the right strategies—like setting boundaries, keeping communication businesslike, and avoiding unnecessary drama—you can navigate the challenges of co-parenting and create a stable, supportive environment for your children, no matter how challenging your ex may be.

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Do we really need couples therapy?
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Do we really need couples therapy?

Ever wonder if you and your partner really need couples therapy? You’re not alone! Whether you’re stuck in the same arguments, feeling a disconnect, or just curious about strengthening your bond, couples therapy isn’t just for relationships in crisis. It’s a way to maintain and build a stronger connection before things feel too heavy. In this post, we’ll explore the signs that therapy could be helpful and why it’s a smart investment in your relationship’s future. Curious? Keep reading to learn more!

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Loving Someone for Their Potential: Why Trying to “Fix” Your Partner Doesn’t Work
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Loving Someone for Their Potential: Why Trying to “Fix” Your Partner Doesn’t Work

It’s easy to fall in love with who you think your partner could become—but basing your relationship on potential often leads to frustration, disappointment, and exhaustion. The truth is, you can’t fix or change someone who doesn’t want to change. Instead, relationships should be about accepting each other as you are, not waiting for a future version of your partner to appear.

Curious about how to break the cycle of loving someone for their potential? Let’s dive into why it doesn’t work—and how to build a healthier, more fulfilling relationship.

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Uncovering the Past: How Childhood Experiences Influence Your Current Relationship
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Uncovering the Past: How Childhood Experiences Influence Your Current Relationship

Our childhood experiences shape how we handle love, conflict, and trust in our adult relationships. Often, these past patterns—like fear of abandonment or emotional overreactions—surface in ways we don’t even realize.

Psychodynamic couples therapy helps uncover and heal those old wounds, allowing you to break unhealthy cycles and build a stronger connection. By understanding how your past affects your present, you can create a healthier, more secure relationship rooted in empathy and growth.

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Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Separation: How to Take Care of Yourself During the Process
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Separation: How to Take Care of Yourself During the Process

Separation is a whirlwind of emotions—grief, anger, confusion, and maybe even relief. It’s a lot to handle, but self-care is essential for getting through it. Give yourself permission to feel everything, lean on your support system, and take breaks from overthinking. Setting small, manageable goals can also help you focus on the present rather than the unknowns ahead. Above all, be kind to yourself—healing takes time, and you’re doing your best. With patience and self-compassion, you’ll navigate this emotional ride and come out stronger.

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The Unspoken Needs in Relationships: How Psychodynamic Therapy Brings Them to Light
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

The Unspoken Needs in Relationships: How Psychodynamic Therapy Brings Them to Light

Ever feel like something’s off in your relationship, but you can’t quite figure out what? Chances are, unspoken needs are driving that tension. These emotional and psychological needs—whether it’s wanting more closeness or reassurance—often go unexpressed, leading to frustration and resentment. Psychodynamic couples therapy helps uncover these hidden needs, creating space for open communication and deeper understanding. By bringing these needs to light, couples can meet each other where it matters most—emotionally—and strengthen their bond in the process.

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When the Honeymoon Phase Ends: How to Keep the Spark Alive in Long-Term Relationships
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

When the Honeymoon Phase Ends: How to Keep the Spark Alive in Long-Term Relationships

When the honeymoon phase fades, it’s easy to feel like the spark in your relationship is flickering. But just because the initial excitement wears off doesn’t mean the passion has to. In fact, the real work—and reward—of a relationship comes after that phase, when both partners intentionally nurture their bond. By prioritizing quality time, showing appreciation, keeping physical and emotional intimacy alive, and trying new experiences together, you can reignite that connection and keep the flame burning strong, no matter how long you’ve been together.

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Do You Have a Bad “Picker”? Why We Keep Choosing the Wrong Partners (and How to Fix It)
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Do You Have a Bad “Picker”? Why We Keep Choosing the Wrong Partners (and How to Fix It)

Ever feel like you keep picking the wrong partners, only to end up in the same frustrating cycle? It might feel like your “picker” is broken, but the truth is, there are deeper patterns at play. From ignoring red flags to being drawn to familiar (but unhealthy) dynamics, it’s easy to fall into the same relationship traps.

Curious about how to break the cycle and start choosing better partners? Let’s dive into why your picker might be leading you astray—and how to recalibrate it for healthier, happier relationships.

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