 Photo by Matt W Newman on Unsplash Every couple argues. Disagreements are a natural part of sharing a life with someone. But when arguments become the norm rather than the exception, it might be time to take a closer look at what’s really going on between you and your partner. Maybe the same fight keeps coming up over and over. Or maybe small conversations quickly turn into big blowouts. Sometimes, it’s not the volume of the conflict but the tone—sarcasm, stonewalling, walking away—that starts to wear you down. And after a while, you may find yourselves drifting into patterns that feel more like surviving than truly connecting. It’s not the argument itself, but how we repair afterward, that shapes the strength of our bond. These are signs that your relationship may be stuck in a negative cycle. In these moments, many couples begin to feel more like opponents than teammates. One partner may feel constantly criticized, while the other feels ignored or shut out. These patterns can leave both people feeling lonely, frustrated, and unsure how to fix things. The good news is: conflict doesn’t mean your relationship is broken. In fact, it can be a signal that your connection matters—and that you both want to feel seen, safe, and supported. A relationship reset begins with slowing down and becoming curious about what’s beneath the arguments. What do you each need? What are you trying to protect? Working with a couples therapist can help you both name the cycle, understand your emotional patterns, and begin to build a new way of relating—one that feels more open, respectful, and emotionally safe. If you’re stuck in recurring conflict, you’re not alone—and support is available. If you are experiencing an emergency or are in crisis: please call 988, 911 or call Crisis Support Support Services at 1-800-309-2131.
To speak to one of our therapists about our counseling services and to schedule an appointment, please choose one of the following options. A therapist will contact you within two business days.
Business inquiries: call 408-320-5740 or email i[email protected]. Associate and traineeship inquiries, please visit the Clinical Internship page.  In today’s fast-paced world, staying informed is important, but the constant influx of distressing news can take a toll on mental well-being. Many individuals find themselves feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or even immobilized by the weight of current events. If this resonates with you, know that you are not alone. At Oak Creek Relational Counseling Center, we understand the impact of chronic stress and want to offer practical strategies to help you navigate challenging news cycles while preserving your emotional balance. Control Your News Consumption One effective way to reduce stress is by setting limits on your exposure to news. You do not need to consume every headline or breaking story in real-time. Consider designating specific times during the day to check the news rather than allowing it to dominate your routine. Curate your sources carefully and focus on well-researched, fact-based journalism to avoid unnecessary anxiety. Build a Support System Connecting with like-minded individuals can provide comfort and validation. Whether through family discussions, group texts, or regular check-ins with friends, sharing your thoughts with others can help process emotions more effectively. Support networks are particularly valuable during times of uncertainty. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques Meditation, deep breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation can all help regulate stress responses. A simple breathing technique involves sitting quietly, closing your eyes, and focusing on slow, deep breaths while mentally repeating a calming word, such as “peace.” This practice can promote relaxation and enhance emotional resilience. Take Constructive Action If you feel compelled to engage with current issues, consider channeling your energy into productive efforts. Writing to elected officials, volunteering for community initiatives, or supporting organizations that align with your values can provide a sense of empowerment and purpose. Seek Balance in Media Consumption It can be helpful to engage with different perspectives and focus on solution-oriented content. Diversifying media sources and reading in-depth analyses rather than sensationalized headlines can contribute to a more balanced and less emotionally charged understanding of events. Prioritize Self-Care Above all, maintaining your physical and mental well-being should be a priority. Ensure you are getting adequate rest, exercise, and social interaction. Engaging in hobbies, spending time outdoors, or simply taking moments of solitude can serve as necessary breaks from external stressors. Navigating today’s news cycle requires intentional effort to protect mental health. By incorporating these strategies, you can stay informed without feeling overwhelmed, ensuring that you remain resilient and present in your daily life. If stress and anxiety persist, professional support from a therapist can provide personalized guidance to help you manage emotional distress effectively. If you are experiencing an emergency or are in crisis: please call 988, 911 or call Crisis Support Support Services at 1-800-309-2131.
To speak to one of our therapists about our counseling services and to schedule an appointment, please choose one of the following options. A therapist will contact you within two business days.
Business inquiries: call 408-320-5740 or email i[email protected]. Associate and traineeship inquiries, please visit the Clinical Internship page.  We are excited to welcome Sara Zavala to the Oak Creek Relational Counseling Center in Pleasant Hill, California, as our newest Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) Trainee. Sara is deeply committed to supporting individuals as they navigate life’s complexities, providing a compassionate space where clients can feel heard, understood, and empowered to foster meaningful change in their lives. Sara’s therapeutic approach is rooted in Person-Centered Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). She believes in meeting each client where they are, helping them build an emotional toolkit to process past experiences and develop healthy coping strategies. Whether you are working through grief, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, or other life stressors, Sara is dedicated to walking alongside you with warmth and encouragement. “Life will throw many things at you, and when we haven’t processed our past traumas or developed emotional regulation skills, we can become reactive in ways that impact the people and things we deeply care about,” Sara shares. “Through therapy, we can deconstruct old patterns and rebuild new ones that support your well-being.” Sara understands that beginning therapy can feel overwhelming, but taking the first step is a powerful act of self-care. She applauds those who seek support and encourages individuals to embrace their journey toward healing and personal growth. Please join us in welcoming Sara Zavala to our community. We are grateful for the positive impact she will have on our clients and the continued growth of Oak Creek Relational Counseling Center. Sara is supervised by Stephen Polin, LMFT #7861. If you are experiencing an emergency or are in crisis: please call 988, 911 or call Crisis Support Support Services at 1-800-309-2131.
To speak to one of our therapists about our counseling services and to schedule an appointment, please choose one of the following options. A therapist will contact you within two business days.
Business inquiries: call 408-320-5740 or email i[email protected]. Associate and traineeship inquiries, please visit the Clinical Internship page. |
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