As a society, we have become less sociable. We tend to avoid eye contact when people walk past us. When we use public transportation, we remain to ourselves, looking at the ground. When we stand in line, we stare at our cell phone screens. These common scenarios used to be opportunities to connect with other human beings, start a chat with a stranger about mundane things — the weather, the traffic, the long line ups. None of these conversations are life changing, nor do they provide us with deep intellectual stimulation. They do, however, provide us with an essential and crucial human need — the need for connection, the knowledge that we belong somewhere, that we can relate to others. Connecting with other humans grounds us emotionally. For a moment, we are not alone — we share a common experience, and we have an opportunity to be kind to someone for no apparent reason.

The impact of new parenthood is far-reaching, influencing not only your mental and physical health, but also your relationship with your partner.

Two recent client experiences made me reflect on the aspect of patience in psychotherapy – and the need to explain why patience is a crucial component for both client and therapist. It is not uncommon for clients to expect advice or even step-by-step instructions on how to “fix their problems”. While it is absolutely understandable that clients wish for a speedy resolution of their presenting issues, we must also realize that psychotherapy is not magic, but hard work. It only makes sense that issues that have built over decades will require more than two or three sessions to be resolved.

“Toxic positivity” refers to an overgeneralization of a happy, optimistic state that results in the denial, minimization, and invalidation of authentic human emotional experience. The culture of relentless optimism insists that regardless of how dire or difficult a situation may be, we should maintain a positive mindset

Deciding to end a marital relationship is one of the most challenging decisions a couple can make. When a marriage involves shared years, mutual friends, financial entanglements, and perhaps children, navigating the terrain of separation and divorce can feel overwhelmingly complex. This emotional journey is challenging, but it is possible to navigate it amicably and respectfully.

As our parents age, the dynamic of our relationship inevitably shifts. We find ourselves in the role of caregivers, facing a spectrum of emotional, physical, and financial challenges. This transition can be fraught with difficulty.