an image of three therapists walking on the beach in los angeles smiling and hugging each other representing the best therapy for millennials and the best couples therapy san francisco
alexis bibler waving at her laptop offering therapy for millennials and therapy for lawyers in california

The
BLOG

How Couples Can Be Less Codependent And Move Toward Interdependence
Couples and Relationships, Communication Laurel Roberts-Meese Couples and Relationships, Communication Laurel Roberts-Meese

How Couples Can Be Less Codependent And Move Toward Interdependence

While closeness in a relationships feels good, losing your independent sense of self isn't good for anyone. Transitioning from codependence to interdependence—a state where partners support each other while maintaining their own identities—requires effort. Here's how to do it.

Read More
Boundaries Are Over; Here’s What’s Next
Communication, Boundaries Laurel Roberts-Meese Communication, Boundaries Laurel Roberts-Meese

Boundaries Are Over; Here’s What’s Next

When therapy terms like "boundaries" become widespread, they often get diluted and distorted. People invoke boundaries when making selfish or unkind decisions, using the term as a barrier instead of a helpful relationship tool. After years of helping people with trauma and relationship problems, we've seen the downsides of this distortion. It's sometimes used to gaslight and avoid responsibility. But we're not advising to abandon the concept of boundaries altogether. Here's the future of how we talk about boundaries.

Read More
What Not To Say To Someone Who Has Sexual Trauma
Trauma, Communication, Healthy Coping, Sexual Trauma Laurel Roberts-Meese Trauma, Communication, Healthy Coping, Sexual Trauma Laurel Roberts-Meese

What Not To Say To Someone Who Has Sexual Trauma

There are many things you shouldn't say to someone who has been the victim of a sexual crime. After experiencing the ultimate loss of power and autonomy, too many people are accused of lying or exaggerating. Here are things you should never say to a survivor of sexual assault and what to say instead.

Read More
Why You Can't Find Words to Talk About Your Trauma
EMDR, Trauma, Communication Laurel Roberts-Meese EMDR, Trauma, Communication Laurel Roberts-Meese

Why You Can't Find Words to Talk About Your Trauma

Trauma is a heavy burden to bear. Sometimes, it can feel impossible to find the words to talk about it. Whether you're seeking therapy or trying to open up to a friend, verbalizing your trauma can be a challenge. There's science behind this difficulty, and strategies to help you unburden yourself by sharing with a trusted person.

Read More
8 Words Therapists Want You to Stop Using Wrong: What to Say Instead
Bipolar, Diagnosis, OCD, Communication Laurel Roberts-Meese Bipolar, Diagnosis, OCD, Communication Laurel Roberts-Meese

8 Words Therapists Want You to Stop Using Wrong: What to Say Instead

Words are powerful tools for understanding and communicating. When used incorrectly, they can perpetuate misconceptions, stigmas, and confusion. Here are eight words that therapists wish you'd stop using incorrectly and alternative phrases that promote a more accurate and compassionate dialogue.

Read More
Holiday Gatherings: Three Steps to Thrive With Complicated Family Dynamics
Boundaries, Communication, Holidays Laurel Roberts-Meese Boundaries, Communication, Holidays Laurel Roberts-Meese

Holiday Gatherings: Three Steps to Thrive With Complicated Family Dynamics

The holiday season brings the promise of joy and togetherness. But for many of us, the prospect of spending extended time with family can be a source of stress and anxiety. If you find yourself in a situation where the holidays with family are more challenging than cheery, fear not. We've got three practical steps to not only survive but thrive during this festive season.

Read More
The Truth About Lies in Relationships: Why We Lie and How to Handle It
Couples and Relationships, Communication Laurel Roberts-Meese Couples and Relationships, Communication Laurel Roberts-Meese

The Truth About Lies in Relationships: Why We Lie and How to Handle It

We've all had those moments when a little white lie slips out. Whether it's about traffic, busyness, or how good that homemade lasagna is. Lying is part of human communication, and not all lies are bad. In fact, many are told with the best intentions, aimed at preserving relationships and sparing feelings. But when the truth eventually surfaces, trust can waver.

Read More
Dealing With Challenging In-Laws: How Couples Should Handle Complex Dynamics
Couples and Relationships, Communication, Boundaries Laurel Roberts-Meese Couples and Relationships, Communication, Boundaries Laurel Roberts-Meese

Dealing With Challenging In-Laws: How Couples Should Handle Complex Dynamics

They say that why you marry someone, you marry their family. While some in-laws become beloved members of your extended family, others present challenges. It takes skill to navigate these complexities while preserving the unity of your chosen family. Let's explore various types of challenging in-laws and how to communicate with your spouse.

Read More
What To Do When One of the “4 Horsemen” Appears In Your Relationship
Couples and Relationships, Communication Laurel Roberts-Meese Couples and Relationships, Communication Laurel Roberts-Meese

What To Do When One of the “4 Horsemen” Appears In Your Relationship

Few things feel as stressful as conflict and tension in our closest relationships. It can feel especially threatening when you encounter one of the infamous "Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse." These four toxic behaviors can unleash chaos in your relationship if left unchecked. But don't worry! We've got actionable strategies to combat them and repair your connection.

Read More
5 Daily Habits For Lasting Love From Couples Therapists
Couples and Relationships, Communication Laurel Roberts-Meese Couples and Relationships, Communication Laurel Roberts-Meese

5 Daily Habits For Lasting Love From Couples Therapists

Every couple encounters challenges on their journey together. The key to a thriving relationship often lies in the daily habits you cultivate. As couples therapists serving major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, we understand the importance of research in this area. In this article, we'll explore Gottman's Small Daily Habits and how they can improve your relationship.

Read More
Four Horsemen of the Relationship Apocalypse: Resolving Conflict in Couples Therapy
Couples and Relationships, Communication Laurel Roberts-Meese Couples and Relationships, Communication Laurel Roberts-Meese

Four Horsemen of the Relationship Apocalypse: Resolving Conflict in Couples Therapy

It’s a scene you know too well: You and your partner are having a conversation, and before you know it, it escalates into a heated argument. You both leave the conversation feeling upset and more distant than before. Sometimes it feels like an emotional apocalypse within our relationships. Here’s what’s actually going on and what to do about it.

Read More
How Shared Goals Can Strengthen Your Relationship
Couples and Relationships, Communication Laurel Roberts-Meese Couples and Relationships, Communication Laurel Roberts-Meese

How Shared Goals Can Strengthen Your Relationship

All couples want to feel close. Common goals for couples therapy are to reduce conflict and improve communication. But what comes after that? One of the key findings from Dr. John Gottman's studies is that setting goals in a relationship can lead to the ultimate stage of connection: a sense of shared meaning.

Read More

Our latest podcast guest episodes

Listen to what our therapists are talking about on the latest podcasts and more!

AS FEATURED IN:

Our Teletherapy Services In California & Florida

We offer individualized teletherapy for a wide range of mental health and relational issues. Our San Francisco & Los Angeles teletherapists can help with anxiety, trauma therapy, EMDR therapy, LGBT issues, holistic therapy, enneagram therapy, therapy for lawyers, couples therapy, and therapy for teenagers. We serve many people in San Francisco, Santa Cruz, and Los Angeles, as well as throughout California and Florida. Our team is anti-racist, body positive, LGBT and trans affirming and sex positive. You deserve to feel good!