Recent studies suggest that teenage rebellion and obnoxious behavior are considered a normal and universal part of growing up. But is this assumption valid? First of all, we have to distinguish between rebellion and “individuation.” Individuation refers to the inevitable … Continue reading
It seems that no sooner did summer start, that back-to-school is just around the corner! In spite of the summer beach pleasures, many parents will face issues with their kids involving academics, focus and concentration. Will your child pay attention … Continue reading
One of the biggest problems in most personal or business relationships is the false assumption that there’s a conflict of interest, when in fact there isn’t. When personal relationships degenerate into unhappiness, you’ll almost always find the partners ready to … Continue reading
It’s natural to be happy and to love the warm weather and sunshine. But as things quiet down in the fall and winter, I encounter clients who feel depressed and gloomy when the days become shorter and darker. This is … Continue reading
A reader emailed about an incident involving her long-time boyfriend. Apparently they have been dating for several years. As their relationship progressed, they began to discuss the possibility of moving in together. It was during those discussions that she began … Continue reading
And you thought it would never get warm again. Be careful what you wish for! Our annual highway clogging, bad driving and meter-feeding season is upon us yet again. Though most of us full-timers secretly look forward to it, we … Continue reading
Everyone loves their kids. It’s a natural thing to do. But love alone isn’t enough. We have to pass a test to drive; accredited education is required for health professionals, yet there is no testing process to prepare parents for … Continue reading
Cell phones on the beach. On the highway (in spite of the new laws!). In the grocery store. In restaurants. They’re everywhere. For me, the question isn’t why people love cell phones so much; it’s why people have such a … Continue reading
When it comes to marriage and relationships, dollars and cents represent a lot more than just the basic necessities. In fact, money issues often become the means through which conflicts are played out. Though some fights and disagreements may seem … Continue reading
Well, it’s that time again. As we wade through caramel corn, pepperoni-topped slices, salt-water taffy and crab cake sandwiches, how can one possibly maintain one’s slim, trim, beach-ready figure? Isn’t there some sort of middle ground where we can still … Continue reading
In between all the activities that characterize our summer beach resort, it helps to stand back and take a look at what matters (and what doesn’t matter) to you. In fact, this sort of self-reflection should be a part of … Continue reading
People often ask me if there is one primary rule for communication in a successful relationship. From my professional experience, I would say that the most overlooked area of communication is: Listening. People often assume that listening is for the … Continue reading