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Resentment: The Silent, Deadly Poison That’s Killing Your Relationship
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Resentment: The Silent, Deadly Poison That’s Killing Your Relationship

Resentment doesn’t announce itself with drama—it creeps in slowly, fueled by unmet needs and unspoken frustrations. What starts as small, unaddressed annoyances can fester into something much bigger, silently eroding the foundation of your relationship. If left unchecked, resentment can turn love into bitterness and connection into distance. But here’s the good news: you can stop it before it does real damage. Ready to tackle resentment head-on? Let’s dive into how to recognize its sneaky signs and what you can do to heal your relationship before it’s too late.

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5 Myths About Couples Therapy (and Why They’re Wrong)
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

5 Myths About Couples Therapy (and Why They’re Wrong)

Thinking about couples therapy but not sure if it’s right for you? Let’s clear up some common myths that might be holding you back. From the belief that therapy is only for couples in crisis to the fear that it’s all about awkward feelings talk, these misconceptions can make the idea of getting help seem way scarier than it actually is. Spoiler alert: therapy is for every couple who wants to grow stronger together. Ready to find out the truth and take your relationship to the next level? Let’s dive in!

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The Human Touch Meets Artificial Intelligence: A Therapist’s Perspective on AI & Therapy
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

The Human Touch Meets Artificial Intelligence: A Therapist’s Perspective on AI & Therapy

Therapy is about as human as it gets—it’s messy, emotional, and full of moments where someone just gets you. So where does AI fit into all that? Sure, it can handle the admin stuff, like scheduling and note-taking, and it might even flag patterns in your sessions. But can it really understand the weight behind your words or sit with you in the silence of a hard moment? AI might be an amazing tool, but it’s not a substitute for the heart of therapy: the connection, the trust, and the shared humanity that no robot can replicate. The challenge isn’t whether AI has a place in therapy—it’s how we make sure it stays in its lane.

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How Unresolved Childhood Issues Affect Adult Relationships (Yes, It’s All Connected)
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

How Unresolved Childhood Issues Affect Adult Relationships (Yes, It’s All Connected)

Ever wonder why certain things in your relationship push your buttons more than they should, or why certain patterns seem to follow you from one partner to the next? It could be that unresolved childhood issues are sneaking into your adult relationships. The way you were treated as a child, how your caregivers responded to you, and the emotional patterns you developed early on—all of it has a way of playing out in your connection with your partner today. Want to know how your past might be influencing your present and what you can do to break those cycles? Let’s dive in.

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Why Therapy Is So Hard (And Why That’s a Good Thing)
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Why Therapy Is So Hard (And Why That’s a Good Thing)

Ever wonder why therapy feels like running an emotional marathon? It’s because real growth requires real work. Therapy isn’t about quick fixes—it’s about diving deep, facing the tough stuff, and breaking old patterns that hold you back. If you’re feeling emotionally wiped after a session, that’s not a bad thing—it’s a sign that you’re pushing through the discomfort and making real progress. Want to know why the hardest therapy sessions lead to the biggest breakthroughs? Let’s dig into why therapy isn’t supposed to be easy—and why that’s exactly what makes it work.

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Why Relationships Are Hard (And Why That’s Totally Normal)
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Why Relationships Are Hard (And Why That’s Totally Normal)

Relationships are hard—that’s a fact. And if you’ve ever felt like maintaining a happy, healthy relationship takes more work than you expected, you’re not alone. But here’s the good news: just because it’s hard doesn’t mean it’s broken. Relationships are supposed to challenge us, push us to grow, and sometimes force us to have those uncomfortable conversations we’d rather avoid. The real magic? It’s in working through those tough moments. So, if you’re wondering why relationships feel like a full-time job sometimes, keep reading—because it’s more normal than you think.

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Misconceptions About Psychodynamic Therapy: Let’s Set the Record Straight
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Misconceptions About Psychodynamic Therapy: Let’s Set the Record Straight

Think psychodynamic therapy is just about rehashing your childhood or sitting in silence while a therapist scribbles notes? Think again! While there are a lot of misconceptions out there, psychodynamic therapy is far more dynamic, modern, and insightful than you might realize. It’s not just about “mommy issues” or endless sessions with no progress—it’s about uncovering the deeper emotional and relational patterns that shape who you are today. Want to learn what psychodynamic therapy really looks like and why it’s so effective? Read on to bust the myths and see how it can lead to lasting change.

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How to Talk to Your Partner About Going to Couples Counseling (Without Freaking Them Out)
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

How to Talk to Your Partner About Going to Couples Counseling (Without Freaking Them Out)

Bringing up couples counseling can feel like walking on eggshells—you don’t want your partner to feel like the relationship is in trouble, but you know it could be helpful. So how do you start the conversation without it feeling awkward or overwhelming? It’s all about timing, framing it as growth, and making it a shared journey. Want to know how to approach this delicate topic with calmness and support? Read on to learn how to talk about couples counseling in a way that strengthens, not threatens, your connection.

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Defense Mechanisms: What They Are and How They Protect Us (Until They Don’t)
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Defense Mechanisms: What They Are and How They Protect Us (Until They Don’t)

Ever wonder why you say or do things in the heat of the moment that don’t quite make sense? That’s your defense mechanisms at work—unconscious mental strategies that protect you from uncomfortable emotions. While they help you cope in the short term, they can also prevent you from addressing deeper issues. Whether it’s denial, projection, or rationalization, defense mechanisms are central to how we navigate emotional discomfort, especially in relationships. Curious to learn more about how these mental gymnastics work and how they fit into psychodynamic theory? Read on!

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Relationship Compatibility: What Really Matters (and What Doesn’t)
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Relationship Compatibility: What Really Matters (and What Doesn’t)

Compatibility—it’s more than just liking the same music or agreeing on what to watch next on Netflix. It’s about how well you and your partner align on the deeper things in life—values, emotional needs, and how you handle conflict. Curious how compatibility really works in a relationship and what you can let slide? Discover what truly matters when it comes to building a strong, lasting connection and why it’s more about growing together than sharing identical interests. Read on to explore what makes compatibility tick!

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How to Maintain Independence While in a Relationship (Without Feeling Like You’re Losing Yourself)
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

How to Maintain Independence While in a Relationship (Without Feeling Like You’re Losing Yourself)

Relationships are amazing, but let’s be honest—sometimes, they make you forget where “you” ends and “we” begins. Maintaining your independence isn’t about pushing your partner away; it’s about keeping the parts of you that make you, you. From carving out “me time” to pursuing your own goals, independence is key to a thriving, balanced connection. Because let’s face it: nobody wants to become that couple with a shared email account.

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Dissociation in Relationships: What It Means and How to Reconnect
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Dissociation in Relationships: What It Means and How to Reconnect

Dissociation in relationships can feel like there’s an emotional wall separating you from your partner. It often shows up when one person checks out mentally or emotionally during important conversations or moments of intimacy. While it may seem like a sign of disconnect, dissociation is often a defense mechanism tied to emotional overwhelm, past trauma, or even attachment styles. The key to managing it lies in recognizing the signs, practicing grounding techniques, and creating a safe space for open communication. With care and patience, dissociation can be worked through, helping couples rebuild connection and emotional intimacy.

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Dissociation: What It Is and Why It Might Be Happening to You
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Dissociation: What It Is and Why It Might Be Happening to You

Ever feel like you’re drifting outside of your body, watching life unfold as if you’re on the outside looking in? Or maybe you’ve spaced out so intensely that minutes or even hours have passed without you noticing? You’re not alone—this is called dissociation, and while it can feel unsettling, it’s actually more common than you might think. Dissociation is your brain’s way of hitting pause when things get overwhelming, whether from stress, trauma, or overstimulation. While occasional dissociation is your mind’s natural defense mechanism, it’s important to address it when it starts interfering with daily life.

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5 Simple Activities Couples Can Do to Improve Communication (Without Feeling Awkward)
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

5 Simple Activities Couples Can Do to Improve Communication (Without Feeling Awkward)

Let’s face it—communication is key in any relationship, but it’s not always easy to stay on the same page with your partner. Misreading signals, not fully listening, or getting stuck in the same arguments can make things feel disconnected. But improving communication doesn’t have to feel like a therapy session. There are fun, simple activities that can bring you closer and help you communicate better without the pressure. From a 10-minute daily check-in to practicing active listening or playing the “Love Map” game, these activities are all about fostering connection, understanding, and emotional intimacy. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress.

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Pornography Addiction: What It Is and How It Can Impact Your Relationship
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Pornography Addiction: What It Is and How It Can Impact Your Relationship

Let’s talk about a tough but important topic: pornography addiction. While it’s often surrounded by feelings of shame and secrecy, the reality is that many people face this issue, and it can significantly impact relationships if left unaddressed. Pornography addiction is more than just casual viewing—it’s when the compulsion to consume porn disrupts daily life, emotional well-being, and, most importantly, the connection with a partner. If you or your partner are struggling with this, know that help is available, and recovery is possible. With open communication, professional support, and a commitment to healing, relationships can move forward in a healthier direction.

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The Silent Treatment: Why It Happens and Why It’s Hurting Your Relationship
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

The Silent Treatment: Why It Happens and Why It’s Hurting Your Relationship

We’ve all been there—an argument escalates, and suddenly, one person shuts down completely. The silent treatment might seem like a way to avoid conflict, but it’s actually doing more harm than good. Whether it’s used to avoid confrontation or regain control, the silent treatment creates emotional distance, builds resentment, and erodes trust in the relationship. Instead of shutting down, try acknowledging the issue, taking a break with a plan to revisit the conversation, and practicing vulnerability. Open communication beats silence every time—and it’s the key to a stronger, more connected relationship.

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Boredom in a Relationship: What Does It Really Mean?
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Boredom in a Relationship: What Does It Really Mean?

Feeling bored in a relationship? Don’t panic—it’s more common than you think. As relationships shift from the excitement of the honeymoon phase into the comfort of routine, it’s natural to wonder if the spark is fading. But boredom doesn’t always mean there’s something wrong. Sometimes, it’s just a sign that you’ve reached a new level of stability with your partner. However, if the boredom feels more like disconnection, it might be time to check in and shake things up. Reconnect, communicate, and remember that boredom can be an opportunity to strengthen your bond rather than a sign of trouble.

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Emotional Affairs: What They Are and Why They Hurt Just as Much
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

Emotional Affairs: What They Are and Why They Hurt Just as Much

When you hear the word “affair,” your mind might jump to something physical, but emotional affairs—where the connection is all about emotional intimacy—can be just as damaging, if not more. Emotional affairs happen when you form a deep emotional bond with someone outside your relationship, creating a distance between you and your partner. The secrecy, the emotional investment, and the shift in intimacy all contribute to a deep sense of betrayal. But here’s the good news: emotional affairs don’t have to mean the end. With open communication, rebuilding trust, and setting boundaries, healing is possible, and your relationship can come out stronger on the other side.

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What Are You Really Looking for in a Partner? (Hint: It’s More Than Just Good Looks)
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

What Are You Really Looking for in a Partner? (Hint: It’s More Than Just Good Looks)

So, you’re out there in the wild world of dating, hoping to find the one—someone who checks all the boxes and makes your heart skip a beat. But here’s the thing: relationships are about way more than just chemistry and attraction. The real question is, what should you actually be looking for in a partner? Spoiler: it’s not just someone who knows your favorite takeout spots. From emotional support to shared values and mutual respect, let’s dive into the qualities that really matter when it comes to building a relationship that lasts.

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PDA: How Much is Too Much? (And Why You’re Making Everyone Uncomfortable)
Nicole Babb Nicole Babb

PDA: How Much is Too Much? (And Why You’re Making Everyone Uncomfortable)

Ah, PDA. You either love it, hate it, or know that one couple who insists on turning every public space into their personal love stage. Sure, a little hand-holding or a quick kiss can be cute, but when does it cross the line into “please stop, we’re at the grocery store”? PDA is all about balance—showing affection without making the people around you cringe. So, where’s that fine line between sweet and way too much? Let’s dive into the world of public displays of affection and why a little restraint can go a long way.

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