Confirmation bias is the tendency to interpret information in ways that support our existing beliefs, which can distort how we see our partners over time. Small, unresolved issues in relationships can accumulate and lead us to view our partner more negatively, even ignoring their efforts to connect. This biased thinking often creates a cycle of emotional distance and misunderstanding, with both partners feeling unseen or unloved. By recognizing our assumptions and choosing curiosity over judgment, we can break the cycle and rebuild trust through empathy and open communication.

Explore practical strategies for budgeting as a couple, navigating financial differences, and turning money into a tool for connection—not conflict. Whether you're combining finances, setting shared goals, or dealing with disagreements, this guide helps you build a strong financial foundation together.

What if improving your family’s connection could be as simple as sitting down together for a game night? As a therapist who values meaningful relationships and creative solutions, I’ve seen firsthand how play can bring families closer and create opportunities for growth.

We are challenging the way couples therapy is done traditionally. Read more to understand how an intensive could be a jump start to the next phase in your relationship!

A reminder about powering through with intention!

Roommate Syndrome, if not addressed can cause damage and resentment to your relationship that feels impossible to overcome at times if you let it go too long. Dive into what it is and what to do when you feel it creeping into your relationship.

As humans, we often judge or talk poorly about things we do not fully understand. Challenge your view and thinking about substance use by reading this blog written by Mirella “MJ” Jasso who supports clients struggling with substance use and addiction.

Feedback is hard to receive but it is a necessary part of the process of therapy sometimes. What do you do when your therapist gives you some feedback that stings?

Our emotional bank account isn’t talked about enough. Take some steps to evaluate your withdrawals and credits to your relationships emotional bank account.

At Thrive Marriage and Family Counseling, we aim to provide our community with a diverse group of counselors trained in many modalities and interventions. One faith-specific modality is the Christian counseling approach offered by Sam Sanchez, LPCC. But what exactly does that mean?

I want you to take a second and think about the word “gratitude”. What words would you use to describe the word “Gratitude”. How do you express it? How do you know someone else is expressing gratitude?

Counseling is an opportunity to review things in your life, prioritize, and reorganize what you are doing and what you are hoping for in your future. Like the gym, setting up that first appointment and heading into the therapist’s office for the first time is oftentimes the hardest part.

In a world of expectations, make sure that the shoulds you hold yourself to are actually shoulds that bring you happiness.

In our previous blog post, we provided you with information on traumatic responding in relationships along with 4 helpful tips. Today, we are giving a more in-depth view of how to (1) call a time-out, (2) ground with the senses, (3) communicate assumptions, and (4) seek repair. So, let’s get started!

Every store we enter sings melodies of love and peace. It’s the most wonderful time of the year is reinforced at every corner. A reminder to have yourself a “Merry Little Christmas” plays in every background. Peace, joy, love, and gratitude are all things that we are reminded of during the holidays, but what if we don’t feel them? What if happy holidays does not hold true for us?

Have you ever felt as if you and your partner are speaking entirely different languages? Perhaps, you’ve even thought that they MUST be crazy!! Or “how can they take what I’ve said and turn it into….THAT?!!” Well, if you are in a relationship with someone who has experienced trauma (which, let’s be frank, is A LOT of people) then keep reading!