Shows
Couples Counseling For ParentsThe Ick Factor: When Your Partner Suddenly Feels GrossGot a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.That moment when your partner's chewing suddenly sounds like nails on a chalkboard. When their touch makes you cringe instead of melt. When even their kindest gestures somehow feel... gross. Welcome to "the ick" – that mysterious feeling of sudden repulsion that can leave you questioning your entire relationship.On this revealing episode, we dive deep into this common but rarely discussed phenomenon, exploring how it frequently surfaces in parent relationships and what it's really telling us. Through our fictional case st...
2025-09-0222 minCouples Counseling For ParentsSince Kids, We Never Have Time for Our Relationship!Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.The back-to-school season brings a whirlwind of activity that can leave even the strongest relationships feeling disconnected. Soccer schedules, school supplies, and new routines create a perfect storm where couples find themselves working efficiently as logistics partners but missing each other as romantic partners.This episode tackles the reality that many parents face during transitional seasons: feeling like you've "gone away" from yourself and your relationship. Dr. Stephen Mitchell and Erin Mitchell, MACP explore how even couples who excel at...
2025-08-1426 minCouples Counseling For ParentsWhat We've Learned From Couples: The 100th Episode!Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.In this milestone 100th episode of Couples Counseling for Parents, Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP reflect on the transformative relationship wisdom they've gathered over the years of working with couples facing the unique challenges of parenthood.The insights they share are both profound and practical. They discuss how true bravery emerges when couples face their deepest fears and vulnerabilities; how humility creates openings for healing; and how our universal desire to be truly seen and accepted drives relationship...
2025-04-1935 minCouples Counseling For ParentsWhen Your Past Lives in Your ParentingGot a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.Remember when you and your partner felt like soulmates, deeply connected and growing stronger together? Then parenthood arrived, and suddenly those old insecurities you thought were healed came rushing back with surprising force. You're not alone, and no—you didn't make a mistake choosing each other.Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP state, "What's happening is a normal developmental challenge that catches most couples by surprise." The intense stress of parenting activates our nervous systems, bringing along familiar patterns, th...
2025-04-1136 minCouples Counseling For ParentsFrom Shame to Understanding - A 5-Step Guide to Talking About ADHD with Your PartnerGot a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.Navigating the complexities of ADHD in relationships requires more than just understanding the condition—it demands a thoughtful approach to communication, empathy, and mutual support. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP tackle the tough questions head-on: What do you do when your partner acknowledges their ADHD but refuses any support or treatment? How can you communicate the impact of their behaviors without triggering shame? What happens when you notice your partner criticizing ADHD traits in your child—the very sam...
2025-04-0421 minCouples Counseling For ParentsADHD in Relationships: Navigating the Neurodivergent Disconnect!Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.The complexity of ADHD can transform a loving partnership into a battlefield of misunderstanding, shame, and resentment—especially when children enter the picture. After receiving an overwhelming response to a social media post about ADHD in relationships, we knew we needed to address this increasingly common challenge faced by parenting partners.In this first episode of our two-part series, we explore four specific scenarios where ADHD creates conflict between parenting partners: when the default parent has ADHD, when the non-default pa...
2025-03-2642 minCouples Counseling For ParentsParenting on Purpose: Moving Beyond Parenting DifferencesGot a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.What happens when two loving parents disagree about how to respond to their child's behavior? This deeply personal episode dives into one of the most challenging conflicts couples face—differing parenting approaches.Through the story of Justin and Lori, we examine how bedtime struggles with their six-year-old son leads to couple conflict. Justin believes in firm boundaries and worries about being manipulated, while Lori focuses on understanding what's driving their son's behavior. This scenario leaves both parents feeling misunderstood and ju...
2025-03-1439 minCouples Counseling For ParentsCould I Get a Little Validation Over Here?Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.Life as a parent can often feel like a flood of responsibilities, expectations, and emotional exhaustion. In this episode, Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP, address the cycle of invalidation that can arise between partners as they try to juggle tasks and manage parenting stress. Through the story of Raj and Brynn, we explore how feelings of being overworked and underappreciated can lead to mutual invalidation in relationships. Join us in uncovering the steps necessary to shift out of a...
2025-02-2726 minCouples Counseling For ParentsI Handle Stress "Right," It's My Partner That Handles Stress "Wrong"Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.This episode dives into the dynamics of emotional regulation between partners in stressful parenting moments, highlighting the contrasting coping behaviors of downshifting and upshifting. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP provide practical insights using a relatable case study, illustrating how couples can navigate these tensions and foster meaningful communication to create a supportive family environment.• Explaining the downshift-upshift coping dynamic in relationships • Analyzing a common conflict scenario in parenting • Discussing the role of everyday stressors on couple dynamics...
2025-02-2126 minCouples Counseling For ParentsI Need You to Stop Needing MeGot a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.This episode addresses the often invisible burden carried by default caregivers like Tasha, who find themselves overwhelmed by both family and partner expectations. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP, delve into the mismatched needs that arise from these dynamics, frequently leading to misunderstandings and conflict. Through thoughtful discussion, we focus on the critical role of open communication and self-awareness in breaking free from outdated norms that perpetuate inequality. By examining how Tasha's partner, Paul, may inadvertently contribute to this imbalance, we...
2025-01-3030 minCouples Counseling For Parents6 Principles That Will Save Your Parenting Partner RelationshipGot a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.This episode dives into six transformative principles for strengthening couple relationships amidst the challenges of parenting. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP encourage listeners to embrace unity in problem-solving, assume positive intent, grant each other space, seek counseling early, practice patience and grace, and confront fears openly. The six principles discussed are: • It's me and you against the problem not us against each other • Be quicker to assume good intent than ill intent• Let each other walk away when we...
2025-01-2334 minCouples Counseling For ParentsThe Death of Defensiveness: How to end the cycle of defensiveness in your couple relationshipGot a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.Defensiveness can be a significant roadblock in relationships, particularly among parenting partners. The episode delves into how defensiveness complicates communication, using the example of Kylie and Leslie and their conflict over forgotten pasta. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP emphasize leading with accountability and following up with vulnerability as crucial steps towards breaking the cycle of defensiveness. Here's what we cover in the episode:Analysis of a scenario involving Kylie and Leslie stuck in a defensive cycle and...
2025-01-1637 minCouples Counseling For ParentsFrom Tiredness to Togetherness in ParentingGot a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP discuss the "Embodiment Chasm," a concept that highlights the different experiential realities between parenting partners. Through the story of Maria and Todd, the hosts explore how the differences in parenting experiences can lead to misunderstandings, and they offer insights on communication strategies to overcome this chasm for a healthier relationship. • Introducing the concept of the Embodiment Chasm • Case study of Maria and Todd's experience of the Embodiment Chasm • How the Embodiment Chasm cre...
2025-01-0842 minCouples Counseling For ParentsHoliday Loneliness: How partner's can handle the Holiday BluesGot a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.The holidays can be magical. The holidays can also be lonely and sad due to family drama, the loss of a loved one, not living close to family etc. Many times couples can experience conflict balancing the desire for a magical holiday and not wanting to ignore the "lonely" reality of the season too. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP will give you and your partner practical tips and scripts that you and your partner can use to stay connected in...
2024-12-2035 minCouples Counseling For ParentsHow Understanding Yourself Strengthens Your Parenting and PartnershipGot a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.What if understanding your past could transform your present relationships and parenting journey? This episode promises to guide you through the nuanced dynamics of becoming both a strong parent and partner, featuring the relatable story of Jude and Grant, who navigate the complexities of feeling disconnected amidst the whirlwind of parenting responsibilities. We unpack how personal histories shape our responses to stress and influence our parenting styles, enabling you to shift from reactive to intentional decision-making.Explore the contrasting reactivity...
2024-11-1834 minCouples Counseling For ParentsAvoiding the Passive-Aggressive Trap: Communication tips for Parenting PartnersGot a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.Transform passive-aggressive tension into moments of connection with proven communication strategies for parenting partners. Join us, Dr. Stephen Mitchell and Erin Mitchell, as we explore how understanding the essential pause between feeling and reaction can change the dynamic of your relationship. Unpacking a scenario with Nora and Thad, we reveal how undetected emotions often lead to conflict and how recognizing these feelings can lead to healthier interactions. Discover the power of conscious choice—a pivotal step toward nurturing communication that fosters deeper co...
2024-11-1126 minCouples Counseling For ParentsThe Dilemma: Do I Need to Prioritize My Relationship Over My Kids?Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.Have you ever wondered if focusing too much on your kids might be pulling you away from your partner? Join us as we unravel this intricate conundrum through the lens of Regina and Sebastian, a couple attempting to juggle the needs of their relationship with the demands of raising three young children. This episode takes you on a journey beyond the surface-level conflicts to reveal the tender, unspoken plea of "I miss you" often hidden beneath the daily grind. With insights drawn...
2024-11-0434 minCouples Counseling For ParentsNavigating Nighttime Duties and Differing Parenting StylesGot a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.Unlock the secrets to a stronger parenting partnership as we explore the intricate interplay of trust and communication in relationships. What happens when differing parenting styles collide, especially during nighttime duties? Join us to uncover how real-life couple Devante and Steph navigate these challenges with their son, Tavon. Through their journey, you'll gain insights into recognizing underlying beliefs that fuel conflicts and learn strategies for building a harmonious parenting environment. In this episode, we highlight the power of understanding and v...
2024-10-2825 minCouples Counseling For ParentsCriticism and Conflict: How to Turn Tension Into Teamwork in Your RelationshipGot a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.Have you ever found yourself caught in a whirlwind of negative banter with your partner, wondering how it all escalated so quickly? Join us as we explore the pitfalls of critical behavior in relationships through the story of Janelle and Hector. This episode reveals how picking at each other's imperfections can create a cycle of resentment and disconnection. We promise you'll walk away with practical strategies to foster appreciation and teamwork, transforming those tense moments into opportunities for a stronger partnership.
2024-10-2134 minCouples Counseling For ParentsWhat Happened to Our Sex Life: Intimacy After BabyGot a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.What happens to intimacy when children enter the picture? Many parents find themselves asking this question, and we're here to provide some insights. Join us, Dr. Stephen and Erin Mitchell, as we untangle the complex web of maintaining a healthy sex life post-kids. Through the relatable journey of Whitney and Rupal, we highlight the challenges that can strain intimacy, such as exhaustion and body image concerns, and how these can impact communication and connection between partners.Understanding how intimacy and...
2024-10-1427 minCouples Counseling For ParentsHow to Make Up After a FightGot a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.Have you ever had a fight with your partner that left you both feeling distant and unsure of how to reconnect? In this episode of Couples Counseling for Parents, Erin and Dr. Stephen Mitchell dive deep into the art of repairing after conflict. Using the relatable story of Trey and Addie, they illustrate how unresolved arguments can create emotional distance, while offering practical scripts and steps to help you break the cycle.You’ll learn about the importance of acknowledgment, va...
2024-10-0728 min
The Hope TableUnlocking the Power of Nonprofits: A Conversation with Jenny Mitchell on Leadership, Impact, and Economic InfluenceErin is joined by Jenny Mitchell, founder and CEO of Chavender, a dynamic consulting firm dedicated to empowering nonprofits and their leaders. As an executive coach, podcaster, and published author, Jenny is on a mission to inspire more meaningful, impactful conversations. Her impressive credentials include an executive coaching degree from Royal Roads University, the prestigious CFRE fundraising designation, and a Doctor of Musical Arts from SUNY Stony Brook in piano performance—reflecting her lifelong commitment to learning and excellence.In this episode, we pull back the curtain on nonprofit development and programming, offering listeners an insider’s view...
2024-10-0259 minCouples Counseling For ParentsFinding Your ResetGot a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.In today's episode, Stephen and Erin tackle the feeling many couples experience after kids—that sinking thought that "maybe I’ll never feel truly loved or appreciated." Using the high-stress periods of pregnancy and birth as a case study, they break down how partners can lose sight of each other’s needs and how to reset that dynamic for good. If you’re ready to stop feeling stuck and start feeling connected, this episode is for you.And don’t forget to...
2024-09-3030 minCouples Counseling For ParentsMy In-laws are driving me crazy!!!Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.One of the most complex relationships to navigate for parenting partners is relationships with their parents and in-laws. What can parenting partners do to have healthy relationships with their parents/in-laws and give their kids strong relationship with grandparents? Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP answer this question and so many more in this episode. Do you want to learn about the one thing we think every individual and couple needs to know for healthy communication and connection? Check o...
2024-08-2026 minCouples Counseling For ParentsMy partner keeps telling me I need to talk about my emotions, why does it matter?Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.Does talking about emotions matter? We see so many couples were one partner's primary complaint is that their partner cannot talk about how they feel. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP discuss whether talking about emotions matters and what couples can do to resolve this conflict. Do you want to learn about the one thing we think every individual and couple needs to know for healthy communication and connection? Check out our course Attachment Theory: Why It Matters To Y...
2024-08-0229 minCouples Counseling For ParentsMy Partner is So Needy!Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text.Is the preoccupied attachment style really just needy? We examine how childhood experiences shape adult relationships, focusing on preoccupied attachment. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP discuss what preoccupied attachment is, how it impacts a couple relationship, and how partner's can stay connected if one of them is preoccupied. Do you want to learn about the one thing we think every individual and couple needs to know for healthy communication and connection? Check out our course Attachment Theory: Why I...
2024-07-0543 min