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Family relationships are supposed to provide love and support, but sometimes they can become harmful. Insights from our founder Dr. Dana McNeil, PsyD, LMFT was featured in an article, offering expert advice on how to handle toxic family dynamics while prioritizing your well-being. Toxic relationships often involve manipulation, control, or constant disregard for boundaries. Identifying these behaviors is the first step toward making meaningful changes. Dr. McNeil explains, “If every interaction leaves you feeling anxious, […]

Shame and guilt are emotions that can significantly shape the dynamics of a relationship. In an article feature on The Good Men Project, Dr. Dana McNeil, a licensed marriage and family therapist, Gottman-trained specialist, and The Relationship Place founder sheds light on how these emotions differ and why addressing them is essential for healthy partnerships. According to Dr. McNeil, “Guilt is feeling bad about something you did, while shame is feeling bad about who you

Pheromones, often referred to as nature’s silent communicators, are chemical messengers that influence behavior among members of the same species. In humans, their role, especially in sexual attraction, has been a subject of intrigue and debate. Featured in another MBG Relationships article, our founder, Dr. Dana McNeil PsyD, LMFT, offered valuable insights into this phenomenon. According to Dr. McNeil, pheromones are “hormone-like chemical messengers that send information outside of the body.” Unlike typical hormones that

In a recent article feature by Kyle Benson, the complex roles of shame and guilt in romantic relationships take center stage, highlighting how these emotions can either strengthen or strain the bonds between partners. The article explores the subtle but critical differences between guilt, which can encourage positive change, and shame, which often undermines self-worth and communication. With insights from our founder, Dr. Dana McNeil, PsyD, LMFT the piece offers practical strategies—rooted in the Gottman

Expressing love isn’t always straightforward, especially when your efforts don’t seem to resonate with your partner. Everyone has their own way of giving and receiving love, so discovering how your partner prefers to be loved can strengthen your relationship and ensure your affection is truly felt. This topic was further discussed in an article by Mind Body Green. They asked relationship experts and therapists, including our very own Dr. Dana McNeil, LMFT, PsyD, about how

A Reddit user, whom we’ll call Sofia, shared her story about being married to a man who was overly coddled by his mother, causing strain in their relationship. Raised in a household where everyone shared chores, Sofia found herself married to a “man-child” who refused to take responsibility, leaving their marriage in a precarious situation due to his lack of maturity. The Reddit story gained so much attention that it was picked up by Bored

In an episode of The Relationship Place podcast hosted by Jeffrey Young, MA, LMFT,  our founder Dr. Dana McNeil, PsyD, LMFT introduces the concept of Therapy Getaway®, a unique aspect of our therapy intensives program. The Therapy Getaway® allows couples to combine therapy with a relaxing retreat in San Diego. By stepping away from daily responsibilities, couples can fully immerse themselves in their relationship, while enjoying a relaxing retreat. This approach not only enhances the

In the recent KFI AM 640 show, host Dr. Wendy Walsh invited our founder, Dr. Dana McNeil, PsyD, LMFT to delve into the often-overlooked topic of gray divorce. As a therapist with extensive experience in working with couples navigating the challenges of long-term relationships, Dr. McNeil brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion, providing listeners with deep insights into the rising phenomenon of divorce among individuals over the age of 50. Dr. McNeil’s expertise

Ever had that great first date and you’re keen to see where things go, but then you later found yourself in an unpredictable trickle of contact? They reach out just enough to pique your interest—sending a quick message or suggesting a casual meet-up—before vanishing once more. This can make you feel bewildered and a bit let down. But this confusing pattern of engagement that’s minimal and inconsistent has a name– it’s called ‘breadcrumbing’. This behavioral

Wondering if you’re falling out of love with your partner can be deeply unsettling, stirring up feelings like guilt, confusion, and sadness. Avoiding your partner might seem like a temporary fix, but it actually signals a need for serious work on the relationship—whether that’s to rekindle the connection or contemplate parting ways. Mind Body Green consulted the best therapists to unpack falling out of love, managing these emotions, and figuring out the steps forward. Among