Shame Messages: Negative Core Beliefs

Shame & guilt are universal emotions that we have all experienced. The best way to distinguish between guilt & shame is this — guilt says “Woops, I did something wrong, I did something bad.” Shame says “I am bad, there is something...

Disclosure After Infidelity Part III: Emotional Restitution Letter

You’ve done the hard work of the full therapeutic disclosure and the emotional impact letter, and are now arriving at the third and final stop of the therapeutic disclosure process – the emotional restitution letter. This step, like its predecessors, is a...

Valentine’s Day: Blues or Cheers?

Every year around Valentine’s Day, advertisers inundate us with images of people celebrating love. For instance, a 30-second commercial for a diamond retailer highlights a man, on bended knee, proposing to his girlfriend. Pier bystanders look on with curiosity...

Why Recovery Groups?

Addiction is a topic of concern around our country; it is estimated that over 30 million Americans struggle with various addictions including drug, alcohol, gambling and sex addiction. Joining a recovery group can be one of the most important and effective ways...

Disclosure After Infidelity Part II: Emotional Impact Letter

After a disclosure of infidelity or sex addiction, a couple may choose to complete the difficult and important process of the full disclosure. Disclosure day is painful for both partners and can stir up a lot of difficult emotions. The final two parts of the...