Being in an intimate relationship can be one of the best human joys and also one of the greatest sources of pain. Love begins with so much hope: the dream of one day feeling known, accepted to the core; the dream of belonging, protecting and being safe; the dream of the deep passion; the dream of a lasting bond. But hope collides with the realities of love: needs that do not fit, anger dividing, judgments/fights that erode the once easy acceptance, and the awful loneliness that fills the once close - but now distant lives. What makes intimacy work? Some say it's the strength of your dream, the strength of your commitment to love itself. Others hope and search for the good fortune of finding that most excellent fit. But it really comes down to skills – relationships that endure and deepen are formed by couples who learn and practice basic interpersonal skills: listening, clear communication, being authentic, negotiation, handling anger appropriately, and so on. This is very good news because you can learn new skills throughout your entire life! This blog will explore, develop, and practice the skills you need to keep, repair, or end relationships that are toxic...