037-038: Healthy Marriage

In these episodes, John and Margi have a discussion with Natasha Helfer Parker, LCMFT, CST about forming a foundation for marriage that withstands change. They also discuss guiding principles to maintaining successful relationships.

In Part 1, John, Margi and Natasha discuss:

Differentiation: the constant tension between “me” and “we” in marriage
Respect/friendship in a relationship
The Protection Model vs the Intimacy Model
Avoiding power differentials in a relationship
Challenging the rhetoric of “co-dependence”

In Part 2, John, Margi, and Natasha discuss:

Creating positive communication and protecting marriage when believing family tries to place blame on a spouse
Belonging to yourself and choosing to share in significant ways as the best method to building intimacy
Common relationship myths
Vulnerability within relationships
How self-discovery and relationship renovation enhances relationships

Part 1: