Our Guiding Beliefs and Values
Most of us did not have wonderful role models for relationships. Often, despite our best intentions, we resort to unhealthy responses to our partner when we’re upset or angry. Relationship skills are teachable and any relationship can be substantially improved as long as both partners are committed, open and willing.
When couples know what to do, but still aren’t doing it, there are often hidden reasons for continuing negative behaviors. Once these reasons are identified , partners can remain more conscious when making choices in communicating and responding to each other.
There is a hierarchy of skills that couples need for successful interactions. We can assess which skills a particular couple has and which ones they still need for things to improve.
Couples need to gain awareness of those times when they are most defensive, know what is happening to them, and learn ways of communicating in more collaborative ways.
Communicating is not just about speaking, it’s also about listening. Listening is not just waiting for your turn to speak and defend yourself.
Healthier relationships provide children and families with a secure base from which to go out and interact in the world successfully. Home should be a warm, loving , safe place from which you get your batteries charged for the next day’s endeavors: work, school or play.
Healthy, loving relationships contribute to our community by producing positive, functioning members who treat others with respect and fairness.
When relationships flourish, partners flourish as individuals and become their best, most productive selves. Everyone wins.