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Continue reading →: The New Marriage Clinic: Relationship Science from the GottmansAs a marriage and family therapist, I’ve always been fascinated by the intricate dance of human connection. Much like complex systems, relationships are a web of interconnected interactions, where seemingly small changes can have ripple effects throughout the entire system. This is why John Gottman’s work has been so influential…
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Continue reading →: Are Relationship Therapists Undermining Your Relationship?A new study published in Contemporary Family Therapy by Dr. Bill Doherty and his colleagues has found that some couple therapists may be unintentionally harming the relationships of the couples they treat. The study found that 40% of couples reported their therapists making negative or pessimistic statements about their relationship…
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Continue reading →: Beyond the Pieces: Why Systems Thinking Matters in RelationshipsEver tried to solve a puzzle by focusing on just one piece? It’s frustrating, right? You can’t see the full picture, and you miss how each piece connects to create the whole. Relationships are a bit like that puzzle. Traditional Thinking: The Zoom Lens We often approach relationship problems with…
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Continue reading →: Beyond Linear Thinking: Embracing Nonlinear Change in RelationshipsWhen we face challenges in our relationships, we often instinctively reach for linear solutions. We believe that if we identify the problem and apply a direct fix, the issue will be resolved. However, relationships are rarely that simple. They are complex systems with interconnected parts, where change doesn’t always follow…
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Continue reading →: Systems Change in Relationships: A New Perspective on Lasting TransformationHave you ever felt stuck in a relationship pattern, repeating the same arguments or behaviors, despite your best efforts to change? If so, you’re not alone. Many of us approach relationship challenges with a focus on individual actions and reactions. But what if we shifted our perspective to view relationships…
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Continue reading →: Tame vs. Wicked Relationship Problems: Understanding the DifferenceWhen Relationship Challenges Defy Simple Solutions: We often approach relationship problems with a “fix-it” mindset. We want clear solutions, actionable steps, and a return to harmony as quickly as possible. But what happens when the challenges we face aren’t so easily resolved? This is where the concept of “tame” vs.…
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Continue reading →: Navigating Relationship Challenges as Wicked ProblemsIn complexity science, there’s a concept called “wicked problems.” These are challenges so complex and interconnected that traditional solutions often fall short. Think of issues like climate change or poverty – they’re not caused by a single factor, and there’s no easy fix. But what if we applied this concept…
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Continue reading →: Introducing Relationship ComplexityWelcome to the Science of Relationship Complexity! Have you ever felt like your relationships are a puzzle you can’t quite solve? Do you wish you could understand the underlying dynamics that drive connection, conflict, and change? If so, you’re not alone. Relationships are some of the most complex systems we…
