Communication is the most important aspect of keeping a marriage afloat. There are many different kinds of communication, both verbal and nonverbal, and these can be essential elements in maintaining a happy relationship. You and your partner may think you communicate to the full extent you can, but there are always new ways to explore communicating with your partner. Try some of the communication opportunities below.

Sharing

Instead of sitting side-by-side with your partner while watching TV or reading, set aside an hour each week with privacy and no interference. During that time, resolve to only have one agenda: to share something about yourself and discuss feelings. You do not need to problem solve, make financial or parenting decisions, or discuss current events. The topic is your thoughts and feelings and your partner’s own experiences and reactions. This may sound forced or silly to you, but think about the benefits from an interaction like this. You are encouraged to really listen to your partner and also to be heard.

Sharing a secret

Like with sharing, set aside an hour per week for couple time. Think about an experience that you have not shared with your spouse. The secret you choose to share does not have to be a bad one. It can be any experience, attitude, dream, or feeling that you have not previously shared with your spouse. Begin by communicating your motivation for sharing this secret and what you want from your spouse. Once you have told your secret, discuss how it was to reveal it and your partner’s reactions. Be sure to listen with openness and respect when your partner shares a secret, as well.

Our Unique Approach

For the past 33 years, Dr. Fibus’ clients have been learning to take charge (control) of their emotions, relationships and lives. Known for his versatile, creative and customized approaches, Dr. Fibus catches clients doing things right and directs them to Soar With Their Strengths. Nationally recognized as a seasoned relationship expert, Dr. Fibus creates a challenging opportunity for couples to evolve themselves into the top 5% of happy, healthy and successful partnerships and marriages. Free 10 Minute Consultation

Your parents’ marriage as a model

Parents are a major influence in many aspects of our lives. One particularly influential part is what we learn about marriage from observing them and their patterns of communication. Take some time with your spouse to discuss your parents’ marriage. What aspects of it did you see as positive? Would you like to follow in their footsteps in this way? Are there any negative patterns they fell into that you see yourself currently emulating? What can be done about it? Discuss these questions openly with your spouse to raise awareness to marital challenges and seek solutions.

Expressing negative feelings and requesting specific changes

Expressing negative feelings may sound like a bad form of communication, but it can actually be overall beneficial to the marriage. The importance is in expressing your feelings with direction for future interactions. If there is something that your spouse does that bothers you, speak up, but be sure to express what it is you would like him or her to do instead. This second aspect of the equation demonstrates trust in your partner that they can and will change your feelings to more positive ones. Acknowledging strengths and accepting compliments

For many couples, this can be a difficult task. Many of us were raised to believe that humility is synonymous with self-deprecation. However, self-respect is a vital aspect to any marriage. We may expect compliments and appreciation from our spouse but then have difficulty receiving them graciously. Spend time with your partner discussing the positive aspects of yourself. Have your partner chime in on what he or she thinks your strengths are, as well. Begin to take these ideas as truth and encourage your partner to do the same regarding himself or herself.

(Source: Couple Sexual Awareness by Barry and Emily McCarthy)

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Why Clients Have Found Success With Us

We understand the tenets of anger. We know that anger that is poorly managed can be counterproductive and unhealthy.

When anger is misdirected or overly aggressive, it can lead to poor decision making processes and affect your work, close relationships, and your overall mental, physical, and spiritual health.

We help you take on varying perspectives to your unique problems in an effort to open your mind to the possibility of change, whereby you make subtle, but significant changes to a healthier, better adjusted you.

Our Testimonials

"I’ve been to a number of good therapists in my lifetime. Dr. Fibus’ approach is different than all of the others and I have gotten my best results with him."

"Dr. Fibus, your patience and compassion kept us in our chairs, but your skill and understanding of relationships guided us toward renewed commitment that will last a long time. We are deeply grateful for your help."

"Dr. Fibus got us through a hard and unpleasant segment of our marriage. Despite the unpleasant aspects of the affair, we’ve learned how to address the issue and our marriage is now much stronger and healthier than before the incident."

How Do We Move Forward?

Seeking the support of a therapist (relationship expert) can sometimes seem difficult, if not overwhelming. From the minute you call Dr. Fibus’ office to the moment you walk through our office door, you will find comfort in a capable and understanding doctor whose flexibility and knowledge can help you meet your relationship goals.

Dr. Fibus and his team create an environment where comfort and privacy are at the forefront, and focus on care to facilitate growth for the couple and for the individuals who desire growth within their relationship.

Much to Gain!

Whether your troubles consist of trust, resentment, or anger management issues that seem to plague the relationship, or it involves a breakdown in communication, intimacy, or compatibility, Dr. Fibus and his team of relationship, couples, and marriage counselors can help you reframe your perceived weaknesses as potential strengths from which to move forward in the direction of your goals. Sincerity, compassion, and understanding are not what set us apart.

Any effective individual or marriage therapist will provide that. It is with honest reflection, innovation, flexibility, and knowledge of systems and how the mind, body, and spirit interact that give us proven results in couples counseling.

Albert Einstein said that insanity is doing the same thing over and over expecting a different result.

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