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Summary:
Jason shares five habits healthy couples avoid to maintain strong, connected relationships.

The Five Habits to Avoid:

1. Waking each other up to talk when upset—sleep first, discuss later.
2. Assuming your partner is trying to upset you—differences aren’t disrespect.
3. Expecting your partner to fix your anxiety—self-regulation is key.
4. Using distance or avoidance to calm anxiety—space is healthy only if it leads to reconnection.
5. Feeling entitled to sex—focus on intimacy, not demands.

Final Thought:
Healthy couples are intentional, self-aware, and patient with each other.

Link to Relationship Style Quiz

See it in blog form: 5 Things Healthy Couples Avoid

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Episode Summary: In this episode, Jason Polk, a couples therapist with over 10 years of experience, shares the six key signs that indicate it might be time to seek couples therapy. He explains why seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and offers practical examples and personal insights.

Six Signs It's Time for Couples Therapy:

1. Constant Fighting: Recurring arguments over both small and big issues, often with deeper cycles beneath the surface.
2. Constant Avoidance: Lack of communication and emotional distance, which can be more damaging than fighting.
3. Deep Resentment & Contempt: Sharing resentment without boundaries, leading to defensiveness and a cycle of blame.
4. Mistrust: Persistent uneasiness, anxiety, or infidelity that undermines trust in the relationship.
5. Lack of Connection: Not making time to connect, which can amplify annoyances and distance.
6. Inability to Repair After Conflict: Struggling to reconnect or be vulnerable after disagreements.

Key Takeaways:

• Couples therapy is a proactive step toward a healthier relationship.
• Repairing after conflict and maintaining connection are essential skills.
• Even therapists benefit from couples therapy!

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Episode 66: More on repairing after conflict
• Personal stories and examples from Jason’s own relationship

If you recognize any of these signs in your relationship, consider contacting a couples therapist. Remember, seeking help is a sign of hope and commitment to growth.

Couples Therapy in Colorado

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Show Notes: Understanding Narcissism in Relationships

Host: Jason Polk, Couples Therapist & Agency Owner

Episode Overview: In this episode, Jason Polk explores the complex topic of narcissism and its impact on relationships. He breaks down what it means to be a narcissist, the origins of narcissistic behavior, and how these patterns affect both partners and families.

Key Topics Covered:

• Jason's definition of narcissism
• Quote on shame and false empowerment in the development of narcissistic traits
• How narcissists respond to feedback and accountability
• The emotional toll on partners of narcissists, including depression and loss of self
• The challenges and strategies of marriage counseling with a narcissistic partner
• The importance of leverage and motivation for change in therapy
• Practical advice for partners, including setting boundaries and reclaiming your voice

Resources Mentioned:

• PDF on functional psychological boundaries

Takeaways:

• Change is possible, but it requires motivation and structure
• Partners have more influence than they may realize
• Sometimes, the work is about reclaiming your own needs and sense of self

Connect with Jason Polk: For more support or to learn about therapy options, reach out to Jason and his team of RLT therapists.

Jason's agencies:

Colorado Relationship Recovery – Couples Therapy

Real Therapists Group (insurance-based practice)