Ina Stockhausen, IBP

It's worthwhile reading this twice to really take it in... :) so often when I sit with couples do I hear how one person "blames" the partner for how they are showing up in relationship. It goes back to accountability and my favourite saying: Be the partner that you want to have. #happymarriage #relationshipsuccess #couplescounselling #positivelovechanges

So much more empowering and loving when we can let each other off the hook to not have to fix us. Remember if your partner has said no to a request to contribute to your well being they are not saying not to you. It is the tending to their own need that supersedes their ability to meet yours. #relationshipsuccess #happymarriage #couplescounselling

When I ask couples about trust in their relationship, I often hear that trust is not an issue. But later we often identify that they sweep things under the rug, hesitate to be fully authentic or don't feel seen and heard because what could be a moment of emotional intimacy and closeness degenerates into conflict. If this happens to you, it's worthwhile having a calm discussion to figure out what you need from each other so you can speak and listen and still feel safe with each other. #happymarriage, #Couplescounselling

Sometimes couples get into the habit of "controlling" each other's behaviours and decisions. This creates power struggles and conflict. Every one needs the breathing room to be able to make their own decisions. Of course as a partner you may tell your spouse how you feel about a certain decision and to make your own choices in response. But when both partners can name the needs that they are trying to get met, then you can move from power struggle to collaboration. And sometimes we have to meet those needs for ourselves and respect that our partner is busy tending to their needs. When you give freedom to another, you really give freedom to yourself #relationshipsuccess, #happymarriage #couplescounselling

Standing in solidarity. Listening. #blacklivesmatter #muted #amplifymelenatedvoices