Entries by Brandon Coussens, LMFT
Faith, Gratitude, and Mental Health: A Thanksgiving Reflection for Couples
I. Introduction: Why Thanksgiving Hits Differently for Couples Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite times of the year. I love the food, the festivities, the smell of something cooking in the oven, and the feeling of people coming together. I love the “idea” of slowing down and remembering what matters most. But I […]
Trust vs. Control: How to Rebuild Trust Without Falling Into the Trap of Control
Have you ever had your trust broken or has there been a breach of trust between you and a loved one?
What a silly question, right? We all have had our trust broken. When this foundation on which we build all relationships is rocked, it can feel almost impossible to rebuild. You and I don’t realize sometimes how important trust is in our everyday lives until we are smacked in the face with deception, hurt, or uncertainty. Sitting in a chair is a choice of trust. Driving in your car is a risky decision, yet we do it every day at 50 to 70 miles per hour or more. When it comes to relationships, many times we ignore or aren’t aware of how much trust plays a role in how we relate to others and how they relate to us.
6 Lessons on Attitude: Practical ways changing your attitude and help
Your attitude matters! Did you know that? You probably didn’t know how much it mattered. In this post, we will explore 6 aspects of how attitude is important and some practical ways to help you when it comes to improving your attitude and your life. This information comes from an email Newsletter I sent out over the summer. So, if it feels like you are reading different emails, that’s why!
Attitude Affects Behavior: How your marriage can improve by changing your focus
Well, with all that context, I decided to do a Bible study with my kids that I think extends to every part of life. My son and daughter have been struggling with their attitudes lately, and I thought as SUPERIOR FATHER I would teach them about attitude. Although I am kidding about being a great father, as I studied and read about attitude, I realized there is much to this concept. The more I read and studied, the more I realized how much it would help couples. So, this is my attempt to help your marriage or relationship by helping you work on a simple habit: Changing your Attitude.
Expectations in Marriage
What expectations do you have for your marriage? Have you ever thought about it? What you think a marriage should look like, and how you believe your spouse should behave will affect your relationship. Many couples go into marriage with a set view of how their marriage will be and what “should” take place.
Infidelity Meaning and Types
Do you wonder what infidelity is or how to define it? Exploring the definition and the types of infidelity will help you figure out what your concern is. There are several words that people may use regarding infidelity, but do they all mean the same thing? Some of those terms are adultery, fornication, cheating, and affair. Do all of these words mean the same thing?
What is an affair?
No one wants to face betrayal by a spouse. It’s probably the most painful experience one can go through. As a marriage counselor, I have heard many stories of heartache and tragedy that result in the relationships of the couples who come to see me. Some are easily redeemable, but most feel hopeless when I first meet them. Big feelings and much confusion comprise those moments.
Does My Husband Always Think About Sex?
Wives, have you ever felt like your husband only wants to engage with you to get you in the bedroom? He grabs and gropes you all the time, but gentle, non-sexual touch is rare or even absent? You’re not alone.
How to Handle a Sexually Demanding Husband
Are you having concerns about how much your husband is making sexual advances towards you? Many couples have differing sex drives and different understandings of how much sex they should be having. Sometimes a wife can get overwhelmed and feel turned off by her husband when he is too pushy for sex. This is not abnormal. You are created differently and have different needs. Yet, when you feel he is being too sexually demanding, something might be off.
Affection in Marriage
When you’re struggling in your marriage there can be many causes. I would know! Couples come to see me every day with all sorts of problems. That does not mean that all of those problems are the causes of their marital struggles. However, what I see often is a decrease in affection towards one another. Affection is so important in relationships, especially in committed ones like marriage. Spouses need affection to keep the relationship strong and healthy.
What does it mean when your husband rejects you sexually?: Understanding your man’s distance.
Let’s set the scene. You have been doing everything you can to seduce your husband and make him want you. However, he just never takes the bate. He seems uninterested. Sex has dwindled. He is disengaged and focused on other things. What is going on? Am I not good enough, pretty enough, or sexy enough? Why does he not want to ravage me?
My Wife Hasn’t Slept With Me In Months: 5 reasons your wife is not interested
When a wife doesn’t seem interested in sex or is avoiding it, what is going on? You are confused and frustrated. Isn’t sex a big part of marriage? These are questions I have helped people with. As a certified sex therapist, I believe you can revive your intimacy, but there are real reasons that your wife doesn’t want to be intimate with you.
Is It Okay To Not Forgive Someone?
Have you been stuck in unforgiveness? You may be asking, “Why should I forgive?” Or, maybe, you are 100% sure you shouldn’t forgive. Unforgiveness may seem right, especially if you don’t spend much time around someone who hurt you. What’s the point when you don’t even see them? On the other hand, can unforgiveness be a hindrance and hold you back? That’s why I ask, “Is it okay to not forgive someone?”
How to Build Trust in a Marriage
When a couple starts dating and enters a more serious relationship with each other, they automatically seem to trust each other. They don’t question each other’s motives. The couple gives each other the benefit of the doubt. Then one day something happens to disturb their tranquility. A negative event can strike anytime after a couple has started dating, when they are engaged, or even after they are married. Trust can quickly be lost. Whether small or large, the earthquake shakes their view of each other and leaves cracks in the foundation of the relationship.
