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Pine Ridge Pastoral Counseling Services Founded in 1994, Pine Ridge Pastoral Counseling provides the best mental health counseling via ZOOM as well as useful segments about a mental health issues.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING Artificial Intelligence (AI) is in the news a lot lately. Indeed, o...
10/14/2026

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is in the news a lot lately. Indeed, over the past year or so, AI has become an integral part of our lives in so many ways. For example, we use it to look up things like which actor played a part in a favorite movie or who wrote a favorite song.

We use it to save time and make our lives easier, like spell-checking our posts on Facebook or translating a foreign-language text. More and more, we use it to dictate rather than type on our phones and computers.

We love its improved technology in our cars' navigation systems that show us how to get to places we've never been before. It improves our photos by automatically adjusting exposure or editing out unwanted people.

For more serious matters, banks and financial institutions use it to detect fraud on our credit cards. Although it is hard to keep up, we can fact-check politicians' lies.

Artificial Intelligence and Health Care

AI also plays an important role in our health. We use AI to look up suspicious medical symptoms and medication information. Its ratings help us to choose which doctors we see.

Its applications for health bring us to how folks use AI for emotional and psychological problems. While the impact of AI on counseling and mental health is not fully known, here is a summary of what we know so far. Artificial Intelligence in the Behavioral Health Professions: Ethical and Risk Management Issues: Frederic G. Reamer: 9780871016270: Amazon.com: Books

In general, using Artificial Intelligence to gather information is beneficial. As long as you check its results with multiple sources, A.I. can be a huge time saver. However, problems arise when people rely on A.I. chatbots.

With that in mind, here are some pros and cons of using A.I. to help with mental health issues.

Artificial Intelligence Benefits
Easy and direct Accessibility to Practical Information

AI can provide useful, time-saving information on emotional or therapeutic issues. Instead of buying and reading books, AI can educate and provide helpful summaries on personally relevant mental health topics.

Early Detection of Problems

Using Google AI provides a convenient, useful way to check out worrisome symptoms. AI does not replace seeing a doctor, but it can help someone seek further medical advice and treat disorders in their early stages. AI in Mental Health: Transforming Diagnosis and Management of Depression and Anxiety - PMC

AI is most useful by normalizing irrational fears created by a lack of knowledge. It can also identify unusual or suspicious changes or concerns.

Reinforcement of In-session Learning

AI has enabled many apps that reinforce learning new techniques and other homework discussed in your therapy sessions. These apps not only educate but also encourage you to keep practicing and master new skills. counseling | Pastoral Counseling Syracuse NY

Improved Accuracy of Diagnosis and Best Treatments

AI improves diagnostic accuracy by quickly reviewing differential diagnostic trees and rule-outs. It also provides data indicating which treatments are most effective for a given disorder. AI in Mental Health: Transforming Diagnosis and Management of Depression and Anxiety - PMC

Therapists can also use AI during sessions to check in on clients and gather information they raise. For example, keeping up with new medications or medical procedures can be a challenge. AI quickly solves this problem. In addition, AI applications save time on billing, chart notes, and summaries.

Artificial Intelligence Limitations
Erroneous Empathy

Sycophancy, sometimes called uncritical validation or the suck-up effect, plagues AI chatbots. In other words, since chatbots do not have moral or ethical guardrails, they easily encourage harmful or illegal actions such as su***de or murder.AI overly affirms users asking for personal advice | Stanford Report

AI mistakes empathy for absolute agreement or support. As a result, it cannot challenge, set limits, or even alert authorities. This deficiency is particularly glaring when it comes to situations that would require mandated reporting of child abuse.

Failure to Detect Imminent Crisis

Another problem with A.I.'s uncritical validation is its blindness to a crisis. Thus, it cannot challenge, set limits, or even alert authorities. This deficiency is particularly glaring when it comes to situations such as imminent harm to self/others, or child abuse. These circumstances, which legally require immediate reporting to the appropriate authorities, are beyond a chatbot's capacity. Unbelievably dangerous: experts sound alarm after ChatGPT Health fails to recognize medical emergencies | ChatGPT | The Guardian

Algorithmic Bias

A.I. chatbots are not neutral or objective. They are not sensitive to human diversity. They fall victim to algorithmic bias. That is, they use statistical data and associations that reflect racial/cultural/socioeconomic biases and distortions. What Is Algorithmic Bias? | IBM

The application of an algorithm can compound existing inequalities in socioeconomic status, race, ethnic background, religion, gender, disability, or s*xual orientation, which can consequently amplify disparities in the health system.

Lack of Confidentiality

Unfortunately, AI chatbots are not HIPAA-compliant. They store data for their own learning purposes, which risks a person's confidentiality. The Hidden Dangers of Using AI and Public Platforms for Sensitive Information - NJII Further, AI chatbots do not notify users that their applications are not confidential and don't allow users to decide whether to proceed under those conditions. Could Your AI Chats Become Evidence? What Businesses Should Know - Lexology

Associations with Increased Stress

Ironically, data show that heavy AI chatbot users experience increased stress. Due to its lack of perspective, pseudo-empathic feedback can actually deepen a person's depression or increase their anxiety. AI Therapy: Pros and Cons | Psychology.com

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That Artificial Intelligence will play an ever greater part in life is not in doubt. However, both consumers and professionals still have a lot to learn. For example, what will the ethical guidelines be for combining chatbot use with the care of medical and mental health professionals?

As we navigate innovation and change, we are reminded of St. Paul's wise counsel. "Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good." 1 Thessalonians 5:19-21.(rsv)

Rev. Michael Heath, LMHC, Fellow A.A.P.C. October 14 , 2026

www.revmichaelheath.com

COMMON MYTHS ABOUT THERAPY DEBUNKEDIronically, although counseling has changed over the years, common myths persist. The...
10/01/2026

COMMON MYTHS ABOUT THERAPY DEBUNKED

Ironically, although counseling has changed over the years, common myths persist. These false impressions are not only inaccurate; they can also dissuade folks from seeking helpful treatment. Sadly, this delay prolongs unnecessary suffering and pain.

Given that so many people report feeling increased levels of stress and anxiety, I want to call out these false impressions and correct them. So today, let's review the top five most common misunderstandings about psychotherapy/counseling and set the record straight.

1) Myth: You have to be crazy to see a counselor.

Probably the most harmful myth that keeps people from seeking therapy is the false idea that you have to be in a serious crisis to talk to a counselor. That kind of thinking makes as much sense as believing that you would only go to a doctor if you were having a heart attack.

Of course people seek psychological help when they are in crisis, but people talk to therapists for all kinds of other reasons. Sometimes underlying issues could benefit from ongoing therapy, but sometimes folks just need to vent their frustrations and be heard.

As with most problems, the earlier one gets help, the easier the solution. Myth of Needing Counseling | Pastoral Counseling Syracuse NY

2) Myth: Seeking counseling means you are weak.

Unlike in other cultures around the world, Americans are fiercely individualistic. They like to think that they can take care of themselves and don't need help from others. Self-reliance can be good, but sometimes it is simply foolish.

In fact, rather than being weak, admitting to a problem and seeking help takes courage. It is much easier to deny and avoid a problem than it is to face one's fears and address it. Anyone who has worried about and put off seeing a doctor for a persistent pain will tell you how hard it was to get the courage to actually make an appointment and get things checked out.

The same is true with emotional and relational problems. The fear of what might be wrong is usually much greater than the real issue. Indeed, most folks feel great relief after unloading their fears and talking to a counselor. Hearing that they are not alone and that their problem is common and normal can calm and reassure them. Why Seeing a Therapist Isn’t Weak—It’s the Strongest Step Forward

3) Myth: Counselors just tell you what to do

People seek counseling for different reasons, and there are different kinds of counseling. Most counseling uses a combination of non-directive and directive approaches. Few, if any, counselors simply tell their clients what to do.

Most counselors try to understand what their clients are going through and help them discover hidden truths about themselves and their situation. At other times, counselors fill in gaps with important, relevant information.

Being heard and learning crucial information help clients gain a rational perspective. Indeed, one way to understand the function of counseling is to see it as a process through which a client moves beyond the irrational distortions caused by prior trauma, sees themselves and their situation accurately, and approaches problems reasonably.

This insight comes through personal discovery, not through a counselor's direction or admonition. A counselor can help you to get information and identify and define the problem. They can also help you sort through your options going forward, so you can decide which one is best. To Be Directive or Non-Directive: That Is the Question | Psychology Today

4) Myth: Talking to a friend is the same as counseling.

Of course, talking with a trusted friend can be therapeutic, but it is not the same as counseling. Unlike a friend, therapy has a set structure, process, and professional boundaries.

Therapeutic conversations also come from a neutral perspective. S/he is not personally involved or part of your family or social group and can see things more objectively. Beyond objectivity, therapists have specialized training in psychology and counseling techniques.

As a result, counseling has a special time and place of safety and confidentiality. This setting allows one to relax and be vulnerable. Safety allows one to set aside emotional defenses and access emotions and pain that are normally blocked. Myth of Needing Counseling | Pastoral Counseling Syracuse NY

5) Myth: Counseling takes years and years.

While some clients choose to continue counseling for years, statistics consistently reveal that most counseling concludes successfully within 15 to 20 sessions. The reasons for extending therapy vary from person to person, but in most cases the initial problem has been resolved.

Sometimes, during treatment, new problems or levels of concern surface. When they do, a person may choose to keep exploring and learning. For others, regular sessions become part of an ongoing, open-ended support system. How Long Will It Take for Treatment to Work

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Hopefully this brief review clears up some misunderstandings and helps you think about counseling realistically. If you have a question, it's no big deal to call a counselor and schedule an appointment.

Oh, one more thing. AI's presence across platforms adds a new resource for people with questions about counseling. It can be of great help. I will explore its potential and limitations next time.

Rev. Michael Heath, LMHC, Fellow AAPC

www.revmichaelheath.com

EMPATHY-BASED S*X EDUCATION: A guide for parents.It's time to talk about s*x education again. Although talking about s*x...
09/17/2026

EMPATHY-BASED S*X EDUCATION: A guide for parents.

It's time to talk about s*x education again. Although talking about s*x with kids has come a long way, things like internet p**n and political attacks against real s*x education present new challenges for parents and educators. An empathy-based approach offers a better way. “The Talk” Survey: A S*x Education Map | Future Method - SIECUS

Why traditional approaches fail.

They ignore the emotional aspects of S*x

Traditionally, s*x ed programs focused mostly on biology and ignored the important emotional issues. Guilt/shame, self-esteem/ body image, relationships and abuse, as well as s*xual diversity, are things kids need information about.

They wait too long to talk about s*x.

There is good news. More parents and schools are talking to their kids about s*x than they used to. However, many wait too long to begin. Many parents delay s*xual conversations because of embarrassment, or they feel ill-equipped and confused about how to do it.

They forget that you don't have to know it all. Looking things up together is a great bonding experience that conveys acceptance, interest and a willingness to work together.

An empathy-based approach that focuses on understanding what the child is feeling is less onerous for parents and can actually improve overall communication with their children.

They project their own negative s*xual hang-ups.

Another problem is that, because of parents' own distress in talking about s*x. Thus, when it is done, it often conveys disapproval and does not encourage open and free discussion. Common Mistakes Parents Make When Talking to Kids About S*x - Educate Empower Kid

Besides blocking needed communication, harsh attitudes about s*x create guilt and shame in the minds of curious children, often leaving them with no one to talk to about it. S*X & SHAME | Pastoral Counseling Syracuse NY .

They falsely believe real education promotes s*xual activity.

Traditional approaches often regard anything but "abstinence-only" programs as the enemy. This outlook falsely believes that knowledge encourages morality and s*xual activity.

In fact, the opposite is true. Multiple studies show that the more s*x education a person has, the longer they delay having s*x. S*x Education Linked to Delay in First S*x | Guttmacher Institute

They provide false or incomplete information.

As a consequence of the negative bias, abstinence-only programs and many parents are not honest about what they say to their kids about s*x. Particularly with the issue of ma********on, false guilt and shame are created by not acknowledging that self-pleasuring impulses are normal and healthy both mentally and physically.

They fail to empathize and provide needed guidance.

Perhaps the biggest problem with traditional approaches is that they completely miss the emotional confusion, conflict, and pain s*x creates for their children. In fact, children need empathy and compassionate guidance, not rebuke. Instead of criticism, young people need understanding, reassurance, and help.

An Empathic Approach for Teaching Children about S*x
1. Don't project: Be aware of your own s*xual hang-ups.

Even though talking about s*x is uncomfortable or embarrassing for many parents, it's a necessary part of the job. Good parenting requires mom and dad to recognize their own hang-ups and not let embarrassment deprive their children of vital information and guidance.

2. Establish good communication from early childhood.

An empathic approach means letting your kids know you are interested in and care about their feelings. It also means you are open to talking about whatever is on their minds.

Good communication also requires a commitment to being real. Being real means being honest and not pretending. For example, if you feel embarrassed talking about s*x, say so. If they ask about something you don't know, admit it and look for answers together.

Acknowledging what is real with your kids is a great way to build closeness and trust. Talking about your own feelings about s*x when you were their age normalizes their experience and lets them know that it's safe to talk honestly. Letting your kids know that you were confused, too, when you were their age, not only prevents shaming but also strengthens your relationship with them.

To repeat, empathy creates trust and a sense of safety. As Syracuse University's Sol Gordon used to say, you want to be an "askable adult." - Puberty Curriculum

3. Don't wait too long, but listen to find the right time.

An empathic approach means starting where your child is emotionally. There is no set time when s*x education should begin. If they have a question, pay attention. If they are not asking questions, notice subtle cues and identify what they are feeling and what might be bothering them.

If there is uneasiness, it is okay to ask questions or talk about what things were like for you as a kid. Remember, your job is to address their needs, not your own. Teaching your child about s*x is not a "canned" presentation. It must be custom-tailored to their specific needs.

4. Normalize their feelings, interests, and questions.

Given the negative cultural and religious messages that children receive, it is possible that they could be hesitant or embarrassed to raise questions about s*x. Expressing empathy normalizes their feelings. Also, reassure them that there is nothing wrong with asking questions or wanting to learn. Rather than shaming, a healthy empathic approach teaches self-respect.

5. Pay attention to what is not talked about.

Being empathic also means noticing what is not being said or asked. This is especially true with exposure to abuse or internet p**n. Be aware that a child may be too afraid to raise the issue. As a parent, it is okay to ask questions if you suspect a problem isn't being talked about.

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In a nutshell, an empathic approach to teaching children about s*x seeks to remove the guilt and shame. It creates a positive and respectful attitude toward s*x. It also seeks to normalize children's experiences, provide vital information, and debunk common myths. In addition, it prepares them for its pitfalls and dangers without negativity.

Rev. Michael Heath, LMHC, Fellow AAPC September 17, 2026

www.revmichaelhealth.com

Job's Impatience: A Guide to Expressing Anger Constructively in the Wake of TragedyTraditionally, the biblical character...
09/05/2026

Job's Impatience: A Guide to Expressing Anger Constructively in the Wake of Tragedy

Traditionally, the biblical character Job goes with patience, as in the common phrase "having the patience of Job? Job | Pastoral Counseling Syracuse NY Many Christians praise Job as a model of enduring faith in the face of adversity. What Does the 'Patience of Job' Mean? Indeed, despite unimaginable loss and suffering, Job declared his loyalty to God and did not curse him.

While not as widely appreciated, Job's impatience is of equal importance. Various theologians,Holy Anger: Jacob, Job, Jesus: Basset, Lytta: 9780802862372: Amazon.com: Books , Yale literary critics, The Vision of Tragedy: Richard Sewall: 9780300008951: Amazon.com: Books, and even the cartoonist Charles Schulz, point out that the story of Job is complex and not simply about blind faith.

Further, they directly challenge the common cliché of Job's patience. Peanuts' character, Linus, went so far as to say, " A person who speaks only of the patience of Job reveals that he knows very little of the book." ‘Peanuts’: Suffering, baseball, and religion

Today I want to demonstrate how Job's righteous anger, rather than his servile patience, offers a useful model for both honest faith and constructively expressing frustration and outrage in the wake of tragedy.

The Story of Job

The Prologue
The story of Job is long and at times tedious, so let me summarize. It begins with Job being introduced as a fine and upstanding man who was a faithful servant to god. Next, (Don't ask how or why) Satan appears and makes a wager with God.
Satan bets that Job's loyalty comes from having prospered. If bad things were to happen to him, Job would turn on God and curse his name. God disagrees that Job will be disloyal and a wager is made. Satan will inflict hardship and suffering on Job and they will see who is right.

Without needing to go into the details of Job's afflictions, it is safe to say that he loses everything: his wealth, reputation, family and even his physical health. Satan only spares his life.
Job's Friends

In the wake of his travail, Job's three friends offer him advice. They argue that he must have done something to deserve what happened to him. Their comments expressed the Deuteronomic formula. This was a religious belief that both success and suffering were just. If something bad happened to you, it was because of something you did wrong.

Job explained that, while not perfect, he had done nothing to warrant such extreme punishment. The friends replied that, even so, he should confess.

Job Responds
Job's response to each of his friends is remarkable. And this is the point many miss. He was neither quiet nor calm. He expressed genuine anger but did not attack or blame anyone. Instead of being penitent, Job rages because he believes that he's done nothing to deserve his suffering and loss.

He laments that he had not died at birth. Going further, he cries out that the date of his birth be removed from the calendar (Job 3.3, 11). What is remarkable and exemplary for us is how he expressed his feelings. He did not curse God or himself. Indeed, as communication experts would say, Job exhibits exemplary I-statement form in reacting to the pain and suffering he experienced.

In one of Job's most famous lines (which is also one of the most misinterpreted), he cries out that he knows his Redeemer lives. (Job 19.25) Job is not talking about Jesus Christ. He is talking about ultimate vindication. Despite the pressure to cave, he refused to lie. He maintained his integrity and his innocence.

God Responds
When God addresses Job's friends, He expresses anger at them for not speaking rightly, as his good and faithful servant did by not falsifying his feelings.

Ironically, when God speaks to Job, he is not so complimentary. He chastises Job, saying, essentially, "Who do you think you are to question me ?" In so doing, God refuses to respond to the mystery of unjust suffering.

Job's Enduring Lessons
Sadly, many Christians overlook Job's more complex and sobering lessons. Many erroneously object to anger, no matter how expressed. Indeed, to reiterate, although Job remained faithful to God, it was not blind faith. As explained above, he did not accept the blame his friends offered, and defiantly maintained his innocence.

Four Lessons for Us
Job demonstrates that a person of faith lives it with integrity and honesty. Indeed, he did not falsely confess to avoid punishment.
Job affirms a person of faith's right to feel and express feelings of anger. This is important because many Christians and non-Christians alike have a problem with anger. As a result, they often suppress it and keep it inside.
Job models a constructive way to express anger without being abusive. To repeat, he spoke his feelings and wants without blaming or attacking others.
The story of Job raises the theological mystery of evil. God's denunciation of his friends affirms human dignity. God debunks the notion that suffering is always deserved. It's frustrating that the story does not explain why evil exists. Nonetheless, denouncing self-or other-blame vindicates human dignity. Indeed, when tragedy strikes in families, for example, family members often blame themselves. Self-blame and false guilt, in addition to reflecting bad theology, contribute to low self-esteem and depression.
Oh, and one more thing. The ending, where all is restored to Job, disappoints. I believe that the writer pulled back from the radical implications of what he had written. i.e., on this earth at least, things don't always turn out the way we hoped or have a Hollywood ending.

Rev. Michael Heath, LMHC, Fellow AAPC September 5, 2026
www.revmichaelheath.com

Research on Declining Divorce Rates Reveals the Keys to Successful MarriagesWith all of the bad news flooding the media ...
08/24/2026

Research on Declining Divorce Rates Reveals the Keys to Successful Marriages

With all of the bad news flooding the media today, you may have missed an important and growing trend. Over the past few years, divorce rates for first-time marriages dropped from 50% to almost 40%. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/marriage-divorce.htm

The reason for the change is complex and not fully known. One cultural shift is the fact that people are marrying later than they used to. The average age for marriage is now 30 rather than 21. Another change is that they have a more realistic understanding of love and marriage than they used to. https://ifstudies.org/blog/divorce-in-decline-about-40-of-todays-marriages-will-end-in-divorce

As information increases, more folks are letting go of the traditional yet grossly unrealistic ideas of romantic love (RL). Specifically, folks today have a better, more realistic understanding of what love is and what it takes to make a marriage last. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4244648/

Today, I want to identify the specific characteristics of a more realistic view of love and marriage and contrast it with more traditional notions of romantic love (RL). Dr. Sara Nasserzadeh researches successful marriages and has accumulated data from hundreds of couples. Her Emergent Love Model (ELM) provides a useful summary of the important changes. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/love-by-design/202504/rethinking-relationships-the-emergent-love-model

Rather than myths https://revmichaelheath.com/on-romantic-love/ , Dr. Nasserzadeh’s model is based on rigorous research that reveals the qualities of good and lasting marriages. Beyond identifying the essential elements of marriage, this model also exposes the failings of traditional notions of RL.

This research shows that there are six elements-factors that create strong and stable bonds. Unlike romantic myths, a realistic view recognizes that successful marriages result from intentional effort and commitment. With this in mind, let’s review the key parts of successful marriages.

The Key Elements of Successful Marriages

A crucial difference in the traditional romantic view of love lies in two key aspects. Successful marriages understand that love is more than attraction and is not magical or entirely beyond our control. Put simply, loving behaviors create love.

PHYSICAL ATTRACTION: Although essential, romantic notions exaggerate the importance of physical/s*xual attraction and are oblivious to the fact that caring and considerate behaviors can create attraction

RESPECT: In addition to passion, successful marriages express concern for the whole person. Respect acknowledges the loved one’s individuality, fundamental boundaries, and privacy. It pays attention and listens to what each partner has to say.

TRUST: Partners in genuine loving relationships feel trust. Trust is built through reliable, consistent behavior over time. While people aren’t perfect, being supportive, keeping promises, and doing what is expected of you foster a sense of safety, which is necessary for people to be open, honest, and vulnerable with one another.

COMPASSION: Empathy and supportive understanding are crucial in loving relationships. Successful marriages are a sanctuary from the stress and criticism experienced in everyday life. Compassion is the needed response to vulnerability, which builds closeness and intimacy.

SHARED VISION: Of course, successful couples have differences, but lasting marriages also share a larger goal for their future. While no couple matches perfectly, their goals for the future either need to be in the same ballpark or they need to negotiate a mutually acceptable compromise.

LOVING BEHAVIORS: It’s no surprise that consideration and kind, thoughtful gestures are essential to maintaining strong bonds. Likewise, loving actions and good s*x help repair inevitable misunderstandings and minor conflicts. Indeed, loving non-s*xual behaviors generate passion and a desire for physical intimacy,

Some Additional Necessary Skills

In addition to knowing what makes for a successful marriage, here are some other basic skills individuals need to ensure a healthy, long-lasting marriage.

SELF-AWARENESS AND TAKING RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE INFLUENCES OF PAST TRAUMA: Good marriages understand that it takes “two to tango”. That is, rather than externalizing responsibility and blaming one’s partner when problems occur, each must be aware of and take responsibility for their part.

Also, each partner needs to know how their own past trauma influences and distorts their perceptions and reactions in the present. To avoid confusion and unnecessary conflict, it is important that each partner is aware of their own triggers that lead to irrational reactions. Conjoint psychotherapy can help couples develop this self-awareness and understanding.

EMOTIONAL SELF-REGULATION: No matter how much knowledge one has, one can avoid being triggered from time to time. Thus, in addition to being mindful of their emotional wounds, partners need to know how to control and de-escalate irrational reactions and behaviors when they occur. Fortunately, there are effective behavioral techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing, meditation, and other exercises that can help a person hit the reset button and regain control.

COMMUNICATION: It goes without saying that couples need to know how to communicate openly and be committed to it. Sharing emotions and discussing problems without yelling or name-calling is crucial to having constructive talks and keeping the peace.

CONFLICT RESOLUTION AND COMPROMISING: Beyond communicating, good marriages know how to deal with conflicts and negotiate equitable and lasting compromises. Again, counseling is a good place to learn and practice these important skills

SELF-CARE AND LEISURE: Sadly, self-care and leisure are often missing from the lists of what is needed for marital happiness and longevity. Self-care applies to both physical and emotional well-being. Thus, in addition to medical check-ups, there must be adequate stress management and time for leisure. Likewise, satisfied couples have fun together. They play, go on vacation, and spend regular dedicated time together.

In summary, while romance novels and films are entertaining, many have come to realize that they do not accurately reflect what love and marriage are about. Indeed, having realistic expectations along with essential relational skills is the best way to ensure lifelong satisfaction with our mates.

Likewise, making the effort to learn the skills will ensure that you enjoy and sustain the love you’ve found.

Rev. Michael Heath, LMHC, Fellow AAPC, 8 /24/2026

www.revmichaelheath.com

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504 E Fayette Street
Syracuse, NY
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