Portland Couples Counseling Center

Portland Couples Counseling Center Marriage and Relationship counseling in the Portland area. Help with love, life, and relationships.

Have you ever wondered what truly makes a relationship tick? The other day, I found myself deep in thought after a chat ...
11/12/2025

Have you ever wondered what truly makes a relationship tick? The other day, I found myself deep in thought after a chat with an old friend. We were reminiscing about how much we've grown, not just as people, but in how we relate to each other. It struck me then that the best relationships are more than simply "drama-free." They're built on something deeper—mutual respect and understanding.

I remember when I first realized the power of just being there for someone. It wasn’t during an epic conflict or a memorable happy moment, but in the everyday gestures—the shared jokes, the “how was your day” texts, or just sitting in comfortable silence. It’s in these little acts that we feel truly seen and heard, and where gratitude naturally flows.

So, I've been thinking—what if we all focused a bit more on truly being there for each other? Next time you catch up with someone you care about, why not take an extra moment to really listen and appreciate the connection you share? You might be surprised at the depth it adds to your bond.

Have you ever felt like you’re just passing by each other, even when you're sitting right there? Last week, I realized t...
11/10/2025

Have you ever felt like you’re just passing by each other, even when you're sitting right there?

Last week, I realized that my partner and I had been caught in the endless routine of busy days and silent dinners. We loved each other dearly, but somehow, between work calls and scrolling through our phones, the deep connection we once had began to feel like a distant memory. So, we decided to experiment with something simple yet powerful: intentional time. We set aside our phones, dimmed the lights, and shared a 6-second kiss to kick off our evening. It felt like the first time we truly saw each other in weeks.

It reminded me how much of intimacy is about being actively present. Sometimes, a small pause to reconnect can be the spark that reminds us of why we chose each other in the first place. Maybe tonight, we can all try putting everything aside for just a moment to really feel each other’s presence. What do you think?

Have you ever noticed how hard it is to really open up? I’ve been thinking a lot about intimacy lately—not just in the r...
11/07/2025

Have you ever noticed how hard it is to really open up? I’ve been thinking a lot about intimacy lately—not just in the romantic sense, but in the way we connect with others, even with ourselves. The other day, I realized how rare it is to have those genuine, heart-to-heart moments that seem to peel back layers we didn't even know we were wearing.

Last weekend, I decided to skip the social media scroll and just sit with a friend over a cup of coffee. We talked about everything from silly childhood memories to our hopes and fears about the future. It hit me then—those moments of vulnerability and shared laughter are the true intimacy we often yearn for, more than anything physical. It's the quiet nods and knowing smiles that tell us we’re not alone.

Maybe it's time we shift our focus a little. Start by looking around or even in the mirror, and ask: where can I be more present? Where can I embrace the awkward silences and just show up, honestly? We might find that intimacy isn’t about how much we share, but how deeply we feel and let others feel with us. Let's make room for that connection.

Do you remember the moment when you had to decide whether to trust someone again? It’s a strange place, isn't it, standi...
11/05/2025

Do you remember the moment when you had to decide whether to trust someone again? It’s a strange place, isn't it, standing there with a heavy heart and a whirlwind of doubts. I’ve been there, too—a crossroads where every choice feels like a big leap of faith.

A few years back, trust for me wasn’t just broken; it felt shattered beyond repair. Hours of sleepless nights and endless ‘what ifs’ became companions. But slowly, like piecing together an intricate puzzle, I learned that trust isn’t about returning to what was; it’s about creating something brand new. Each honest conversation, each small act of kindness, built a new foundation—not trying to erase the hurt, but transforming it into bricks of understanding and new respect.

It's an ongoing journey, filled with smaller, sometimes shaky steps. But every little effort is a quiet promise for a better tomorrow. So, next time you’re here, standing at your own crossroads, remember that trust is not about perfection. It’s about finding the courage to build again, brick by brick. And maybe, just maybe, it starts with us sharing our stories—let’s talk, let’s heal, let’s grow.

Have you ever paused to wonder how our perception of our own bodies can shape the love we share? The other day, I caught...
11/03/2025

Have you ever paused to wonder how our perception of our own bodies can shape the love we share? The other day, I caught myself in an unexpected moment of quiet acceptance. My partner and I were lounging on the couch, and as I looked at him, I realized how comfortable I felt in my own skin at that moment. It struck me: I'd spent so much of my life striving for some external standard of beauty, never realizing how my view of myself spilled over into our relationship.

This little epiphany made me think about how body positivity can transform more than just our self-esteem. It's like a ripple effect—when we're kinder to ourselves, we allow our partners to see us fully, flaws and all. That kind of vulnerability can strengthen the bonds between us, enriching both intimacy and trust in ways I never quite understood until now. Isn't it fascinating how love teaches us to love ourselves too?

So here's a thought I’d love for us to mull over together: What if we started seeing our bodies not just as vessels to critique, but as partners in our stories of love and connection? Maybe next time we look in the mirror, we could try to see the person our loved ones see—and perhaps even embrace them a bit more warmly.

Have you ever paused to think about what true consent feels like in a relationship? It hit me recently how much we often...
10/31/2025

Have you ever paused to think about what true consent feels like in a relationship? It hit me recently how much we often gloss over it, thinking it's just about saying 'yes' or 'no.' But there's so much more beneath the surface.

I remember a moment when I didn't pay enough attention to my own comfort level and let a situation slide just to keep the peace. It was a small thing—a decision that felt insignificant at the time. But later, I realized it wasn't so much about the act itself but about honoring my own feelings and needing to be heard. That was a turning point in recognizing that consent isn't just about what's spoken; it's about understanding and respecting our internal cues and those of our partners.

Maybe it's time we all tune in a little more, not just to the words but to the feelings guiding them. Let's create space in our relationships to talk openly, listen carefully, and respect each other's boundaries. It's about building a foundation of trust and safety where both voices are heard and honored. Have you ever felt like your internal voice needed more space? Let's make room for it.

Ever found yourself wondering, "What truly makes a good relationship?" I remember a conversation with an old friend that...
10/29/2025

Ever found yourself wondering, "What truly makes a good relationship?" I remember a conversation with an old friend that brought this question into sharp focus. We were talking about relationships, and she asked me, “Do you feel safe?” It was such a simple question, yet it made me reflect deeply on what holds a relationship together—beyond the smiles and shared dinners.

Throughout our talk, I realized how much mutual respect, open communication, and genuine empathy form the backbone of any meaningful connection. There’s something so comforting in knowing that you can express yourself without fear, that disagreements are met with kindness instead of anger. It’s like having a safety net woven from commitment and patience, catching you even when things feel rocky.

So, let’s pause for a moment. Think about your own relationships—how safe and valued do you feel? Maybe the next step is to engage with an open heart, or perhaps it's about giving yourself the space to grow independently. Whatever it is, remember that good relationships are ever-evolving, held together by mutual respect and understanding rather than perfection.

Have you ever stopped to think about how important it is to truly understand and appreciate your own body? I used to thi...
10/27/2025

Have you ever stopped to think about how important it is to truly understand and appreciate your own body? I used to think sexual health was just about check-ups and avoiding the big scares. But recently, I've started seeing it as something far more holistic—it's about feeling good in my skin, speaking openly about desires, and leaning into genuine connections without fear or shame.

A friend told me about how she journals her thoughts on intimacy. At first, I thought it was a bit quirky, but now I see the wisdom in it. It's like having a conversation with yourself, ensuring you're heard before sharing those parts with someone else. It made me realize how essential open communication is and how much it deepens intimacy when we articulate what we genuinely want and need.

Let’s have a conversation about this. What’s one small step you can take today towards understanding your own sexual wellness better? Whether that’s picking up a book, having an honest talk, or simply reflecting with yourself, let’s make it a part of our everyday health.

Ever find yourself wondering, "What’s the secret sauce to a lasting relationship beyond the initial butterflies?" I reme...
10/24/2025

Ever find yourself wondering, "What’s the secret sauce to a lasting relationship beyond the initial butterflies?" I remember the early days with my partner, where every glance felt electric, but we soon realized it takes more than just excitement to truly connect. Our first attempt at a dance class was chaotic—more stepped-on toes than graceful moves—but I discovered something deeper there. Learning something new together was like weaving a stronger thread in the fabric of us, anchoring us through the unpredictable seas of life.

Conflict used to terrify me, but choosing to fight smarter rather than not at all taught me the importance of listening—not just hearing, but really listening. Those moments of vulnerability, when we shared our true selves and unmet needs, felt like building a safe space brick by brick. And oh, the magic of celebrating the little wins! Whether it was nailing our third dance class or just surviving a tough week, acknowledging small milestones turned our ordinary days into extraordinary memories.

So, if you’re just starting out or looking to rekindle a fading spark, maybe it's the tiny things that actually matter. Maybe it’s time to consider a new hobby together, have an open-hearted conversation, or just take a moment to appreciate the journey. Perhaps next time you’re caught up in the whirlwind of life, pause and think about what connects you, and try something new together. It might just open up a whole new chapter.

Ever catch yourself wondering if you're really connecting with your partner, or just going through the motions? I had th...
10/22/2025

Ever catch yourself wondering if you're really connecting with your partner, or just going through the motions? I had that thought recently while folding laundry of all things, where something simple suddenly hit me. We often view health as just physical, yet there's this whole world of emotional and relational health that's just as crucial—especially in our intimate lives.

I realized that the conversations we have, or don’t have, about our sexual health are like an untraveled road that might hold the secret to strengthened bonds. It's not just about what's happening physically; it's the laughter, the raw, honest talks, and the brushing up against each other’s truths. These conversations are the cornerstone of intimacy, and without them, are we really doing our relationships justice?

So, maybe it's time we quiet the outside noise and turn to our partners with openness and kindness. Letting vulnerability have its space could breathe new life into what we think we already know. Why not start the conversation tonight and see where it leads?

Have you ever had a moment when a simple decision suddenly felt really big? I found myself in one of those situations re...
10/20/2025

Have you ever had a moment when a simple decision suddenly felt really big? I found myself in one of those situations recently. I was out with friends, just a typical night, and someone mentioned they never really thought about bringing protection because it was a "buzzkill." It got me thinking about the choices we make and how something as small as what we carry in our pocket can shape big parts of our lives.

So, there I was, contemplating how education, access, and a little foresight could make all the difference. It’s easy to dismiss the steps for STI prevention as just another chore, but when you think about it, grabbing that condom or staying up-to-date with vaccines like HPV is part of a bigger picture—it’s about protecting ourselves and our partners.

If you're like me, maybe it’s time to stop viewing protection as an afterthought and start seeing it as a part of caring for ourselves. Let’s break the stigma, talk, share, and make informed choices. Next time you're out, remember that little decisions can have massive impacts. Perhaps what we can all do is be that quiet advocate—one choice at a time.

Ever wondered why some couples seem to handle their differences with such grace, while others constantly clash? I had on...
10/17/2025

Ever wondered why some couples seem to handle their differences with such grace, while others constantly clash? I had one of those light bulb moments recently, reflecting on how often we overlook the subtle art of problem-solving in relationships. It took me back to a late-night conversation with my partner, where amidst an argument, we paused and genuinely listened to each other. It was like flipping a switch from confrontation to collaboration.

The truth is, it’s not always about having the right answers, but staying curious and open about each other’s worlds. We realized it’s this curiosity that keeps our bond alive, helping us negotiate our way through the ups and downs. It's like making a slight adjustment on a radio dial to find the perfect tune—those little changes can make all the difference in the harmony we create together.

So, maybe next time conflict arises, it's worth shifting our perspective. Start with curiosity, sprinkle it with patience and maybe, just maybe, we’ll find ourselves discovering new phases of our relationship we didn’t know existed. Let’s embrace the idea that problem-solving can be a journey—not just a destination. What do you think? How do you navigate the rhythm of your relationships?

Address

1940 NE Broadway Street
Portland, OR
97232

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+15032828496

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