In this episode, we sat down with Dr. Nikki Haddad—Margaret's residency best friend, couples and sex therapist, and one of the most thoughtful psychiatrists I know—to break down what makes romantic relationships so damn hard. We get into myths we’ve carried (and tried to shake), how sexual issues are rarely just about sex, and why our training in medicine doesn’t prepare us to talk about any of this. Nikki then walks us through the five developmental stages of a relationship and this is only Part 1. Be sure to stay tuned next week for Part 2 of the conversation!

Takeaways:

I used to think the right relationship should feel easy. Turns out, the real ones take work, discomfort, and occasionally arguing over ice cream.

Nikki taught us that sex issues aren’t just about the act—they’re a doorway to everything else we avoid.

I finally learned what “differentiation” means in a relationship—and why it feels like breaking up with your past self.

Couples therapy isn’t just two people yelling about chores. It’s a roadmap, a mirror, and a lot of basketball metaphors.

Yes, Margaret and I roleplayed a fictional couple. Yes, I did an accent. No, we will not be taking questions.

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Want more Dr. Nikki Haddad:

IG: @nikkiiiirose

Watch on YouTube: @itspresro

Listen Anywhere You Podcast: Apple, Spotify, PodChaser, etc.

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Produced by Dr Glaucomflecken & Human Content

Get in Touch: ⁠howtobepatientpod.com

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