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Season 2 Episode 2: Breakup with Bad Love Advice For Couples
Forget what the movies taught you - real love isn't about finding a magical soulmate who makes everything effortless. As couples therapists, we're pulling back the curtain on the relationship advice that sounds romantic but actually sets couples up for disappointment and conflict.
That perfect person who just "gets you" without any explanation? They don't exist. Even therapists who help people identify their needs sometimes struggle to articulate what they want - so expecting your partner to read your mind isn't just unrealistic, it's a recipe for resentment. Remember when Jenna's husband bought her a laser printer for Christmas thinking it was the perfect gift? That hilarious mishap (which turned out surprisingly well a decade later) illustrates how even dedicated partners can misread each other's desires.
The advice to "never go to bed angry" might be the most damaging myth of all. When you're exhausted and emotionally heightened, your cognitive abilities plummet. Fighting until 2 AM typically leads to saying things you'll regret, not resolution. Taking properly structured timeouts isn't avoidance - it's strategic conflict management that prevents unnecessary damage. Similarly, someone needing quiet processing time after an argument doesn't automatically make them abusive or narcissistic. It's about intention and communication.
Most importantly, understand that healthy relationships require consistent work - both as a couple and as individuals. We all bring our "unfinished business" into partnerships, and addressing those patterns takes commitment. The difference between healthy effort and unhealthy struggle lies in the balance between partners and whether that work feels purposeful and mutual. There will be seasons where the giving ratio shifts to 70/30, but in thriving relationships, these imbalances naturally ebb and flow over time.
Join us in challenging these harmful relationship myths and learning what actually creates lasting, loving partnerships. Subscribe to continue unpacking the truths that help real couples thrive beyond the fairy tales.
Dr. Jenna and Dr. Nari are the Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists behind the Coupled Podcast. They both have private practices where they work with individuals, couples, and families in Florida. The two are ready to shake up the world of couples therapy and want to extend resources beyond the couples they see in their private practices.
If you like this episode and want to know more about taking the next step to improve your communication, connection, and intimacy, head over to our websites to learn more about our Staying Coupled and Getting Coupled courses. These online courses give you the flexibility to improve your relationship from the comfort and convenience of your home. The Staying Coupled course is for couples who want to do the work to connect, communicate, and have the healthiest relationship possible. The Getting Coupled course is for premarital couples wanting to learn the essentials for a successful marriage. Topics in both courses include the main issues couples face:
For more information, visit drjennascott.com/courses or drnarijeter.com/courses
Disclaimer: This podcast is not a substitute for therapy. If you’re struggling, we encourage you to seek support from a licensed therapist in your state. Our relationship suggestions and content may not be applicable or advised for relationships with intimate pa
