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Authentic Connections, Boundaries, and Relationships

4 Reasons People Tolerate Bad Behavior conflict avoidance relationship dynamics relationship red flags relationships toxic relationships Aug 09, 2025

Why would someone treat another person poorly and expect them to take it? And, maybe more importantly, why on earth would the recipient of that behavior accept it?

There are plenty of reasons someone might behave disrespectfully, but I want to focus on something else. Why would someone stay in a re...

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Being Authentic in Your Marriage Even When It Causes Tension authenticity emotion regulation marriage relationship tips relationships Jul 27, 2025

You don't need to apologize for something you didn’t do, but you also don’t want to disconnect. Here's what to do when you and your partner see the same moment in completely different ways.

A client of mine, Tammy (not her real name), is nearing retirement as a healthcare provider. She's caring, sm...

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Secrets to Helping a Loved One Who Doesn't Want Help ama ask me anything effective communication relationships Nov 03, 2024

Dear Dr. Julie: Not sure if this is the right place for this question, but how do you help someone who doesn’t believe they need help? My adult daughter, who lives with me, has a mild intellectual disability, ADHD, and may have other genetic disorders we’re getting her tested for. I’ve done all I ca...

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One Easy Step to Better Relationships ama ask me anything effective communication relationship advice relationships self-improvement Aug 23, 2023

If you've been in a relationship for a while, have you ever wondered whether there is a better relationship partner out there for you? Or, if you are single, have you ever wondered whether there is a Mr. or Mrs. Right out there for you?

What do you think would make someone right for you? Sure, you ...

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In a Long-Distance Relationship is Sex With Others Okay? ama ask me anything healthy relationships perspective relationship advice relationship tips relationships Aug 10, 2023

Dear Dr. Julie: My significant other and I live 2 hours away and are able to see each about twice a month. However because we aren’t in the same city he thinks it’s okay for him to go out & have sex with somebody else (he goes to “providers”). He thinks it’s okay because he is not in a “ relationshi...

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6 Factors that Contribute to an Unhappy Marriage effective communication healthy relationships marriage relationship advice relationships Aug 10, 2023

Marriage is a sacred bond that brings two individuals together, promising love, companionship, and happiness. However, even the strongest marriages will experience periods of discontent and unhappiness. Understanding the key factors contributing to marital unhappiness is important for fostering heal...

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When you buy products or services through links on my site or in my emails, I may earn a small affiliate commission. However, I only recommend products that I would use for myself and those I care about.  All videos, articles, and statements made by me (Dr. Julie Shafer) and/or published by me anywhere online are for information and educational purposes only. Because everyone’s situation is different, please consult the appropriate professional before taking action based on information from this site or other publications by Dr. Julie Shafer. Reliance on information contained on my site, emails, or other platforms (e.g., FaceBook, YouTube, Medium, etc.) is solely at your own risk.