Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy: Expert Guides and Resources

Relationships are hard work, and over time, it’s easy to miss some of the warning signs that things aren’t going well. If you know what signs to look for, you and your partner can work together to get your relationship back on track. Resilient relationships — those that weather the storms of daily life — share some key traits.

Couples who maintain emotionally safe relationships find new ways to explore their relationships and renew their lives sexually. Here are some suggestions for reigniting your passion: Review your expectations. Realistic expectations are the basis for a satisfied sex life. Life isn’t a romance novel or a porn flick.

Infidelity is a leading cause of divorce, yet more couples stay married following an affair than get divorced. Rebuilding after an affair requires couples to face the infidelity and the patterns in their relationship in different ways. Keep in mind that time does heal . . . but not on its own. Here are some things to keep in mind when rebuilding after an affair: Agree to be honest and address critical questions.

No relationship is perfect. Couples should expect to have their fair share of conflicts, but how they deal with these conflicts can be a sign of strength or distress. You can get in trouble when you lose sight of the ways that everyday issues can become insurmountable problems over time. Here are some warning signs that can signal a relationship is in trouble: Few arguments ever get resolved.

Resilient relationships may not be perfect but they are resourceful. Couples who are able to maintain a stable balance of positive emotions are more adaptive in the face of adversity. It’s common for a couple to face challenges from their own relationship and those around them. Here are six keys to a resilient relationship: Being available and responsive to each other’s needs: Being responsive when your partner needs you to listen after a tough day, or needs you to pick up the kids in a bind — these types of things show that you care.