Maplewood Counseling

Need Help Letting Go?

Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Relationships

Mindfulness Counseling NJ

Help Letting Go

Counseling Near Me

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The Benefit of Letting Go | Mindfulness Counseling

Letting go will of an inner struggle or conflict can eventually bring you peace and acceptance to your life. It is not easy for many people to let go since it usually means facing something painful. You sometimes have ti go into the fire to get to a better place.

Trying to let go of something painful? Does this sound familiar?

  • You been hanging on to resentment that is hurting you and others in your life.
  • You haven’t been able to resolve something in your life or relationship that causes you on going anger and pain
  • You’re having trouble letting go of a bad marriage or relationship?
  • You may have a strong need to control others and make things happen a certain way?
  • You have tremendous anxiety and resist things that you can’t control.

Some people will benefit greatly from learning to accept they need to let go of difficult circumstances with kindness and manage the emotions that arise.

It can be very frightening and anxiety producing to move forward. Letting go can also mean you have to allow yourself to process painful emotions, which is incredibly important. Why? Avoidance will only prolong the agony. What you resist will persist and causes you and sometimes others more and unnecessary suffering.

Learning to manage emotions with letting go is the first step. It means instead of hanging on to resentments, anger and negative circumstances to avoid what will surface, you start to see the value in gradually accepting Things, circumstances and people you cannot change.

If you need help letting go, find an experience, compassionate and understanding therapist that can help you move in this direction

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Spiritual Relationships

Anxiety, Depression, Relationships

 

Spiritual Relationships

Couples Counseling NJ

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Spiritual Relationships

Mindful & Spiritual Relationships

There is a Insights at the Edge podcast with Elizabeth Lesser, author and spiritual teacher. She has tremendous wisdom and when asked what does it meant to be spiritual, she simply responded “to be generous, calm, loving and fearless”. Couples and individuals that are committed to this process can greatly improve the way they feel . Applying all of these to relationships with love ones will create stronger bonds and deeper connections.  Another positive outcome for many people that practice mindfulness is health benefits that go beyond peace of mind and happier relationships. You do not have to be spiritual or religious to benefit from becoming more generous, calm, loving and fearless.  

Be generous – being generous does not mean only being generous financially. It includes really listening and generously giving someone your time and full, loving attention. Generosity also includes noticing the positive and actually verbalizing with compliments, appreciations,. etc…. Pay attention to and appreciate the nice things others do for you. someone and the things they do, offering help and support, and paying genuine, authentic compliments. You can also be generous by way of service, volunteer work and helping others. Being generous is giving from the heart without expecting anything in return.  This can be challenging in relationships if you are focused too much on getting what you want or angry if you don’t get what you need. It can take work to develop a more generous way of relating. 

Be Calm – Emotional reactivity in relationships often leads to anger, resentment and conflict. Paying attention and becoming more aware of what you feeling and experiencing can help you change your level of reactivity over time. If there are certain triggers that can make you go from 0-60 in a heartbeat, understanding the triggers will help you reduce negative reactions. Childhood experiences, trauma, painful events and the like can still be unconsciously present and cause painful reactions. Reflecting on those experiences and the “hook” will help you approach present relationships and situations in a more mindful way. Also, life is a series of challenges and there are so many things we cannot control. If, over time, you understand this there will be less resistance and more acceptance of difficult situations and a more calm approach. 

Be loving – there are many words that describe being more loving in a relationship. Respectful, supportive, kind, affectionate, forgiving, gentle, compassionate, Also, prioritizing family and relationship over work or other things. It can mean a simple smile and loving attention. Listening is also one of the greatest gifts you can give to another person. Not listening to fix their problems, but rather listening to show you are there and you care. 

Be fearless – This takes work to become less fearful. For example, if you are used tp abiding conflict and putting up a wall, it will take eventually trying to approach rather than avoid. Fear of being hurt, emotional discomfort, worrying can all make it challenging to risk becoming more vulnerable. Fear of what will happen might hold you back, but changing some negative reactions and patterns will mean having the courage to face the pain, emotional discomfort and find ways to be less fearful of what will happen. A confidence comes when you can step by step work on you own fear of what will happen if you are vulnerable, kind, respectful and don’t avoid emotionally uncomfortable feelings. 

It takes patience to work on booming more generous, calm, loving and fearless over time, but it will eventually bring you more peace and closer to loved ones .

If you want help with developing all of these important mindful qualities, please contact us.

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Relationship Tips for Couples

Anxiety, Depression, Relationships

Relationship Tips: Practical Guidance for Couples

Simple & Easy Ways to Connect

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Relationship Tips: Practical Guidance for Couples

Support and Advice for Relationships
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Relationship Tips for Couples

Relationship Tips: Practical Guidance for Couples

All couples experience periods of closeness and moments of challenge. Every shared journey has its unique twists, and facing difficulties together creates lasting understanding and respect. If you’ve noticed tension, frequent misunderstandings, or a sense of drifting apart, it’s important to remember: you’re not alone, and wanting to grow together is a sign of care.

At Maplewood Counseling, we know that every relationship needs mindful attention. Our aim is to help you nurture your connection, improve how you relate, and turn obstacles into opportunities for growth.

Simple Ways to Build Closeness Every Day

Fostering a strong relationship isn’t just about grand gestures. It’s the small, thoughtful actions—done regularly—that keep your bond strong.

  • Check-In with Care: Ask questions that show you truly want to support your partner, such as “What brought you joy today?” or “Is there something you’d like to talk about?” Thoughtful check-ins go beyond surface-level conversations.
  • Show Gratitude Often: Thank your partner for everyday acts, like preparing a meal or offering a listening ear. Even a brief “I appreciate you” can help your partner feel valued.
  • Carve Out Special Moments: Busy schedules make it easy to lose connection. Designate time for just the two of you, whether it’s a weekly walk, quiet morning coffee, or setting aside devices for a heartfelt conversation.

Communicate to Understand and Connect

Have you ever felt like your partner isn’t really hearing you? It’s common, but effective communication helps bridge these gaps and brings you closer together.

  • Express Yourself Clearly: Replace accusatory statements with honest feelings. Instead of “You never listen,” say “I feel overlooked when…” Sharing your experience can foster empathy, not defensiveness.
  • Listen with Presence: Give your partner your undivided attention—silence your phone, listen fully, and reflect what you’ve heard: “It sounds like you’re feeling overwhelmed.” This makes your partner feel seen and respected.
  • Pause When Needed: Sometimes emotions run high. If that happens, agree to step back and revisit the talk when both of you are calmer. Taking space can protect both your feelings and your relationship.

Navigating Disagreements with Compassion

Every relationship has conflict. It’s not about eliminating disagreements, but about handling them in a healthy, respectful way that leaves both people feeling understood.

  • Center on Solutions: Discuss issues without criticizing each other. Stay focused on resolving the concern at hand, and try not to revisit old grievances. Approach problems as a team.
  • Meet Each Other Halfway: Finding a path forward usually means both partners compromise. Ask, “Is there a way we can both feel comfortable with this?” Working together ensures no one feels left behind.
  • Rebuild and Reassure: After a tough conversation, reconnect with a kind gesture—an apology, comforting words, or simply acknowledging their perspective. These moments help heal and reaffirm your commitment.

Support Is Always Available

At times, you might feel stuck or uncertain about how to move forward. Reaching out for help is a courageous step, and it can be the turning point towards a more fulfilling relationship.

Our Maplewood Counseling team offers a welcoming, private environment where couples from all walks of life can explore difficulties and strengthen their bond. Whether you’re working through trust issues, major transitions, or simply want to rekindle your closeness, our skilled therapists offer guidance tailored to your situation.

You don’t have to manage challenges on your own. We’re here to support you in creating the partnership you envision.

When you feel ready, reach out to Maplewood Counseling. Schedule a confidential appointment and begin the journey to a deeper, more connected relationship.

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Comprehensive Guide to Couples Counseling

 

Marriage.com

Feeling Sad and Depressed?

Depression, Relationships

Feelings Sad and Depressed?

Depression Treatment NJ

Individuals, Families, Couples

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Feeling Sad and Depressed?

Feeling sadness and deep emotional pain and in need of therapy?

Understanding what you’re feeling and why is important. If the feeling persist, a mental health professional or doctor can assess your circumstances and recommend certain types of treatment.

Sad about difficult circumstances

-When things in your life are not going the way you expected, it can cause sadness. Maybe it’s your relationship causing unhappiness and stress. You’re not getting what you need and feel alone,  Unsatisfied couples often feel sad, angry  and/or lonely. Feeling stuck and trapped in these circumstances can lead to depression.

For others, parenting challenges can cause deep sadness, frustration and disappointment. If your son or daughter does not seem to be doing well emotionally or has behavioral challenges, it can be rough on the entire family.  In addition, if your child is ill and has medical concerns, it can be incredibly hard to cope with your own concerns and emotional pain. 

Challenges with your work and career can also be cause some people to feel sad. Maybe you hate your job or are dealing with a boss that is unreasonable and hard on you. Possibly your work day is very long and stressful due to ongoing pressure you put on yourself or is coming from your employer. 

Moving and relocating can cause a lot of sadness. Getting connected in a new local community can be difficult for a lot of people and can take time. If you’re an introvert, it can be even more challenging. Stressful moves can cause arguing and disconnect if you are not working together to deal with the changes.

A new baby, newborn and coping changes in your family is very difficult on most young couples. Feeling exhausted, not sleeping, dealing with a colicky baby and not getting enough rest or help? End up feeling a lot of tension and fighting more than usual? Postpartum or mere exhaustion makes many young mothers miserable. Maybe you’re not a young mother and coping with huge transition as a woman giving birth in her late 30s or 40s. 

Some of you may have had trouble or continue to have difficulty getting pregnant and are undergoing fertility treatments, such as in-vitro or other types of procedures. 

Coping with divorce or break-up causes tremendous feeling of grief, loss and sadness for most people. It can be one of the most painful  emotional experiences when your relationship ends. 

An adult child that is going through hard times and you feel powerless to help. Maybe a son or daughter is going through divorce, financial trouble,  or other challenges. 

Any of these situations may cause you to feel sad overwhelmed and hopeless. Reaching out top a licensed therapist can help with an evaluation and help you start making important changes. 

 

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In a Polyamorous Relationship?

Anxiety, Depression, Relationships

In a Polyamorous Relationship?

Polyamory & Open Relationships

Couples Therapy NJ

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In a Polyamorous Relationship?

In a Polyamorous or Open Relationship?

Close to 20% of all people have had a non-monogamous relationships, according to an April 2016 article in the Journal of Sex and Marital Therapy. This includes an open marriage, open relationship, and polyamory, in which all partners agree that each may have romantic and/or sexual relationships with other partners. Many couples follow rules and agreements to cut down on potential problems and challenges.

Polyamory, which is a common type or non-monogamous relationship, means having more than one sexual or romantic partner, with all partners agreeing to certain rules for the arrangement. Unlike an open relationship where couples may date others and agree to only love each other, a polyamorous couple may agree to have sex outside the relationship and are open to loving multiple partners.

Struggling with a Non-monogamous Relationship? Does this sound familiar?

  • Your partner broke a rule and you feel upset or betrayed
  • You or your partner is struggling with jealousy and it causes arguments
  • You or you’re partner or others don’t have good boundaries
  • Quantity vs quality time issues
  • Comparing or being compared to other partners
  • You are ready for a change because you feel unhappy, but your partner is not
  • You have concerns about privacy and being outed
  • Your children are getting older and it’s harder to keep secrets

If you are struggling in an open or polyamorous relationship and need help navigating some issues, get in touch.

 

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In An Estranged Relationship?

Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Relationships

 

In a Estranged Relationship?
Need Counseling NJ

Couples and Individual Therapy

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Coping with an Estranged Relationship?

What is an estranged relationship? Estranged implies a loss of affection, distance and instead of turning to your spouse or partner, turning away. If you have been feeling unhappy and disconnected for a long time, it can create a tremendous amount distance and even hostility.

Are you living under the same roof and feeling trapped? Feeling there are no good options for dealing with your disconnect? Most importantly, it is having a huge impact on everyone’s emotional and physical well-being?

Estranged Relationship | Still Living Together?

Are these your circumstances?

  • We sleep in separate rooms and have for a long time
  • We hardly speak to one another
  • You are estranged from a child, parent or other family member
  • Our children are fully aware of how bad things are
  • We argue and there are verbal insults and hostility
  • At times, we fight in front of our children
  • I don’t love my spouse anymore and even feel like I hate him/her
  • It’s so obvious to everyone we can’t stand each other anymore
  • We cannot afford to separate now
  • We stay together for the sake of the children

So, what should you do? At the very least, you can seek counseling to talk about and process your feelings about the disconnect. Understanding what you can and cannot do is important. Some relationships can be repaired eventually of both parties – whether with a spouse, child or other family member. And other situations may take working with you r own sadness and anger to process and finally come twosome type of acceptance if the situation so you can feel more peace.

An estranged relationship can cause a lot of pain and be challenges for both parties. Forgiveness takes one and you will do this for your own sake, but reconciliation takes two. You cannot reconcile and estranged relationship unless the other person is open. In the meantime, if you are struggling with this type of situation, it might help to talk to a professional.

Get in touch with us if you need to talk.

Contact Maplewoood Counseling