In this episode,  Therapist and relationship expert Todd Creager dives deep into what our parents (and society) never taught us about healthy love. 

Just like we take golf lessons to improve our swing or attend medical school to become doctors, shouldn't we learn how to create and maintain healthy relationships? 

Drawing from my 40+ years of experience as a relationship expert, I share why most of us weren't taught the essential skills for lasting love and what we can do about it.

Key takeaways from this episode:

- Discover the three pillars of healthy love: repair, attunement, and curiosity - and how to implement them in your relationship

- Learn why conflict feels so unsafe and how to transform your connection to be stronger than your pain

- Understand how to express yourself authentically instead of just presenting what you think others want to see

- Find out why it's never too late to learn healthy love skills, regardless of your age or relationship history

Whether you're struggling with communication, feeling disconnected, or simply want to enhance your relationship, this episode provides practical insights to help you create the loving partnership you desire. 

Join me in making the world safer for healthy love - one relationship at a time. 

Want to go deeper? 

Check out my comprehensive program "From Bickering & Escalating to Connecting & Loving" where I share even more tools for lasting relationship transformation right here: https://www.toddcreagertraining.com/loving-connecting-masterclass

TAKE ACTION:

Todd Creager, LCSW, LMFT

Todd is a relationship expert and therapist in Huntington Beach.  He provides relationship coaching to couples throughout the world and in Orange County including Irvine, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, Seal Beach and Long Beach.  (714) 848-2288.

You can find more tips and resources from Todd Creager at:  https://toddcreager.com


✅   Secrets to a Sexy Marriage:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/sexy-marriage-secrets

✅  10 Steps to Healing From Infidelity:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/infidelity-checklist

✅  7 Ways to Divorce Proof Your Marriage: https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/optin-DPYM

✅ 7 Signs You Came From a Dysfunctional Family:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/7signs

✅ Better Sex in Midlife and beyond https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/bettersexinmidlife

JOIN TODD ON SOCIAL:

✅  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/RelationshipBreakthrough
✅  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/todd_creager/
✅  Twitter - https://twitter.com/toddcreager
✅  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddcreager
✅  Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/toddcreager/

Have you ever wished you could stop an argument with your partner before it spirals out of control? In this episode, I share powerful insights on how to hit the pause button on conflicts before they even begin. Drawing from my 40 years of experience as a relationship therapist, I'll show you how to transform potentially explosive situations into opportunities for deeper connection.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why your brain tricks you into overreacting during arguments and the simple breathing technique to regain control

• The game-changing difference between "clean intentions" and defensive reactions that can instantly defuse tension

• How to share your feelings vulnerably without blame, even when you're angry or hurt

• Practical steps to break free from triggering patterns that lead to fights

Here's the truth: fights don't just happen - we create them through unconscious patterns and reactions. But with the right tools and awareness, you can learn to pause, reset, and respond in ways that bring you closer rather than push you apart. The impact of mastering this skill goes beyond just avoiding arguments - it creates a foundation of safety and connection that benefits your whole family.

Ready to transform your relationship dynamics? Join me for this insightful episode where I'll teach you exactly how to catch yourself before reactions take over and create the loving connection you desire.

Want to go deeper? 

Check out my comprehensive program "From Bickering & Escalating to Connecting & Loving" where I share even more tools for lasting relationship transformation right here: https://www.toddcreagertraining.com/loving-connecting-masterclass

TAKE ACTION:

Todd Creager, LCSW, LMFT

Todd is a relationship expert and therapist in Huntington Beach.  He provides relationship coaching to couples throughout the world and in Orange County including Irvine, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, Seal Beach and Long Beach.  (714) 848-2288.

You can find more tips and resources from Todd Creager at:  https://toddcreager.com


✅   Secrets to a Sexy Marriage:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/sexy-marriage-secrets

✅  10 Steps to Healing From Infidelity:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/infidelity-checklist

✅  7 Ways to Divorce Proof Your Marriage: https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/optin-DPYM

✅ 7 Signs You Came From a Dysfunctional Family:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/7signs

✅ Better Sex in Midlife and beyond https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/bettersexinmidlife

JOIN TODD ON SOCIAL:

✅  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/RelationshipBreakthrough
✅  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/todd_creager/
✅  Twitter - https://twitter.com/toddcreager
✅  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddcreager
✅  Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/toddcreager/

Ever wonder why your partner seems to be listening but isn't really hearing you? In this eye-opening episode, I reveal the fascinating neurochemical reason behind why your partner tunes out during conversations or gets defensive when you're trying to communicate.

As someone who's worked with countless couples (and experienced this in my own marriage!), I'll explain why it's not just about "not caring" - it's actually about what's happening in your partner's brain.

In this episode, you'll discover:

- The surprising role dopamine plays in why your partner might choose their phone over listening to you (and what to do about it)

- Why defensive reactions are actually fear responses in disguise, and how understanding this can transform your conversations

- A practical approach to breaking the cycle of poor communication that creates lasting, sustainable change in your relationship

If you're tired of feeling unheard or want to become a better listener yourself, this episode offers real solutions that go beyond simple communication techniques. I'll share personal examples from my own marriage and clinical practice that will help you create deeper connection with your partner.

Join me as we explore the chemistry behind communication and learn how to make your partner feel truly heard. Because when we understand the "why" behind our behaviors, we can create the loving, attentive relationship we all desire.

This is Todd Creager, making the world safe for love - one conversation at a time.

Want to go deeper? 

Check out my comprehensive program "From Bickering & Escalating to Connecting & Loving" where I share even more tools for lasting relationship transformation right here: https://www.toddcreagertraining.com/loving-connecting-masterclass

TAKE ACTION:

Todd Creager, LCSW, LMFT

Todd is a relationship expert and therapist in Huntington Beach.  He provides relationship coaching to couples throughout the world and in Orange County including Irvine, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, Seal Beach and Long Beach.  (714) 848-2288.

You can find more tips and resources from Todd Creager at:  https://toddcreager.com


✅   Secrets to a Sexy Marriage:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/sexy-marriage-secrets

✅  10 Steps to Healing From Infidelity:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/infidelity-checklist

✅  7 Ways to Divorce Proof Your Marriage: https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/optin-DPYM

✅ 7 Signs You Came From a Dysfunctional Family:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/7signs

✅ Better Sex in Midlife and beyond https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/bettersexinmidlife

JOIN TODD ON SOCIAL:

✅  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/RelationshipBreakthrough
✅  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/todd_creager/
✅  Twitter - https://twitter.com/toddcreager
✅  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddcreager
✅  Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/toddcreager/

In this episode, I'm diving deep into the intimate connection between communication and sexual satisfaction. As a sex therapist, I've seen how great communication can transform couples' sex lives - and it's not just about talking! I'll show you how both verbal and non-verbal communication can create the intensity and connection needed for an extraordinary intimate relationship.

What you'll discover in this episode:

- Why being "right" is killing your sex life, and how to shift from debate mode to deep connection

- The power of non-verbal communication (93% of all communication!) and practical ways to use eye contact, touch, and tone to create sexual chemistry

- My proven techniques for conscious flirting and keeping the spark alive, especially in long-term relationships

- How to use both pleasant and challenging conversations to deepen intimacy and reach your sexual potential

Here's the truth: as your communication opens up, so do the different parts of your body required for great sex. Whether you're struggling with intimate conversations or looking to take your relationship to the next level, this episode will give you practical tools to create more passion and connection in your relationship.

Join me as we make the world safe for love, one conversation at a time. Trust me - your relationship will thank you for listening to this one.

Want to go deeper? 

Check out my comprehensive program "From Bickering & Escalating to Connecting & Loving" where I share even more tools for lasting relationship transformation right here: https://www.toddcreagertraining.com/loving-connecting-masterclass

TAKE ACTION:

Todd Creager, LCSW, LMFT

Todd is a relationship expert and therapist in Huntington Beach.  He provides relationship coaching to couples throughout the world and in Orange County including Irvine, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, Seal Beach and Long Beach.  (714) 848-2288.

You can find more tips and resources from Todd Creager at:  https://toddcreager.com


✅   Secrets to a Sexy Marriage:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/sexy-marriage-secrets

✅  10 Steps to Healing From Infidelity:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/infidelity-checklist

✅  7 Ways to Divorce Proof Your Marriage: https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/optin-DPYM

✅ 7 Signs You Came From a Dysfunctional Family:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/7signs

✅ Better Sex in Midlife and beyond https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/bettersexinmidlife

JOIN TODD ON SOCIAL:

✅  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/RelationshipBreakthrough
✅  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/todd_creager/
✅  Twitter - https://twitter.com/toddcreager
✅  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddcreager
✅  Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/toddcreager/

In this episode, I'm diving into something that's absolutely crucial for keeping your relationship vibrant and alive - playfulness! While we're naturally playful during courtship, many couples lose that spark once they settle into the routine of committed life. But here's the thing - playfulness isn't about expensive vacations or grand gestures; it's about using your imagination to create magical moments in everyday life.

In this episode, you'll discover:

- Why maintaining playfulness is vital for long-term relationship satisfaction, and how the "functionality trap" can slowly drain the joy from your partnership

- Simple, practical ways to inject spontaneity into your relationship - from impromptu dance sessions to surprise love notes (even if being playful doesn't come naturally to you)

- How committed relationships can actually become a safe space for exploring new sides of yourself and taking chances with your partner

Here's something I've noticed in my years as a marriage therapist: I've never seen a couple's relationship get worse from adding more playfulness - it always improves! Whether you're naturally playful or not, this episode will give you actionable ways to bring more joy, spontaneity, and connection into your relationship, even on a regular Tuesday at 6 PM.

Join me as we explore how to keep that playful spark alive in your relationship. Because remember, we're not just making relationships work - we're making them thrive with love, connection, and yes, a healthy dose of fun!

Time Line:

00:00 The importance of playfulness in relationships

00:39 Why couples become too functional

01:16 Using imagination to create playful moments

02:25 Making playfulness a daily priority

03:21 How committed relationships can liberate us

TAKE ACTION:

Todd Creager, LCSW, LMFT

Todd is a relationship expert and therapist in Huntington Beach.  He provides relationship coaching to couples throughout the world and in Orange County including Irvine, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, Seal Beach and Long Beach.  (714) 848-2288.

You can find more tips and resources from Todd Creager at:  https://toddcreager.com


✅   Secrets to a Sexy Marriage:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/sexy-marriage-secrets

✅  10 Steps to Healing From Infidelity:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/infidelity-checklist

✅  7 Ways to Divorce Proof Your Marriage: https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/optin-DPYM

✅ 7 Signs You Came From a Dysfunctional Family:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/7signs

✅ Better Sex in Midlife and beyond https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/bettersexinmidlife

JOIN TODD ON SOCIAL:

✅  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/RelationshipBreakthrough
✅  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/todd_creager/
✅  Twitter - https://twitter.com/toddcreager
✅  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddcreager
✅  Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/toddcreager/

In this podcast episode, I'm going to guide you through the essential process of creating a safe space to heal from trauma. As someone who has worked with thousands of trauma survivors, I know firsthand how challenging yet crucial it is to establish both internal and external safety for genuine healing to begin.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Simple yet powerful techniques to create internal safety, including specific breathing exercises and self-compassion practices that you can start using immediately

• How to recognize and respond to your body's trauma responses (fight, flight, freeze, or fawn) with understanding instead of judgment

• Practical steps to build an emotionally safe environment, including setting healthy boundaries and choosing supportive people to have in your healing journey

If you're carrying trauma - whether from relationships, infidelity, or other experiences - this episode offers gentle, practical guidance for beginning your healing journey. I'll walk you through actual grounding exercises and share compassionate insights to help you create the safety you need and deserve.

Remember, healing is not a straight line, and you don't have to do this alone. Join me as we explore how to make the world safer for love, starting with creating safety within ourselves.

Tune in now to and find out how to begin your healing in a safe, supportive space.

TAKE ACTION:

Todd Creager, LCSW, LMFT

Todd is a sex expert and therapist in Huntington Beach.  He provides relationship counseling to couples throughout Orange County including Irvine, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, Seal Beach and Long Beach.  (714) 848-2288.

You can find more tips and resources from Todd Creager at:  https://toddcreager.com 

Need Help with Healing From Trauma?

How most people deal with trauma won’t help you heal and have the life you want.   

Todd has created a guide…the 5 Keys to Healing From Trauma.  Follow these 5 simple steps that will help you go from surviving to thriving.

👉 Get it here: https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/optin-5-keys-to-healing-from-trauma 

In this  episode, I share how love can be the most potent healing force for trauma. Drawing from my decades of experience as a relationship expert and therapist, I share deep insights about how paying attention with care - which is my definition of love - can transform trauma healing, whether it's in therapy, relationships, or self-love.

Tune in and you'll discover:

- Why having someone who loves and truly sees you during traumatic experiences can prevent PTSD, and how you can be that person for someone else

- The powerful connection between self-love and healing, especially in cases of relationship trauma and infidelity

- How to become a "Partner in Pain" (PIP) and meet loved ones where it hurts - a crucial skill for supporting someone through trauma

Whether you're healing from your own trauma, supporting a loved one through theirs, or simply want to understand the transformative power of love, this episode offers practical wisdom and heartfelt guidance. Join me as we explore how attention with care can create breakthrough moments of healing and help people return to their healthy selves.

Ready to harness the healing power of love? Listen now and learn how to make your relationships a safe haven for healing trauma. Because together, we're making the world safe for love.

TAKE ACTION:
Todd Creager, LCSW, LMFT

Todd is a sex expert and therapist in Huntington Beach.  He provides relationship counseling to couples throughout Orange County including Irvine, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, Seal Beach and Long Beach.  (714) 848-2288.

You can find more tips and resources from Todd Creager at:  https://toddcreager.com  

Need Help with Healing From Trauma?

How most people deal with trauma won’t help you heal and have the life you want.   

Todd has created a guide…the 5 Keys to Healing From Trauma.  Follow these 5 simple steps that will help you go from surviving to thriving.

👉 Get it here: https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/optin-5-keys-to-healing-from-trauma 

 In this episode of The Let's Talk About Love & Sex and Infidelity Podcast, I'm diving deep into the three most common ways partners lose trust in their relationships. As a relationship expert who has worked with thousands of couples, I've seen how these trust-breaking behaviors can damage even the strongest bonds - but I've also witnessed remarkable healing when partners are willing to do the work.

What you'll discover in this episode:

• Why "little lies" aren't so little - Learn how even small deceptions can create damaging parent-child dynamics and why honesty truly is the best policy in relationships

• The devastating impact of broken promises - Understand how reliability issues erode trust over time and practical ways to rebuild it through "under-promising and over-delivering"

• The deep wounds of betrayal and infidelity - Gain insight into why cheating cuts so deep and what's really happening psychologically when partners betray trust

From my years of experience helping couples heal, I'll share why these trust issues often stem from immaturity and how partners can "grow up" to create more honest, reliable relationships. Whether you're struggling with trust issues or want to prevent them, this episode provides crucial understanding about what makes relationships feel safe and secure.

Ready to make your relationship more trustworthy? Join me for this honest conversation about building and maintaining trust with the one you love. Remember, while these issues are serious, repair is possible with the right guidance and commitment to growth.

Making the world safe for love,

TAKE ACTION:
Todd Creager, LCSW, LMFT

Todd is a relationship expert and therapist in Huntington Beach.  He provides relationship coaching to couples throughout the world and in Orange County including Irvine, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, Seal Beach and Long Beach.  (714) 848-2288.

You can find more tips and resources from Todd Creager at:  https://toddcreager.com 


✅   Secrets to a Sexy Marriage:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/sexy-marriage-secrets

✅  10 Steps to Healing From Infidelity:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/infidelity-checklist

✅  7 Ways to Divorce Proof Your Marriage: https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/optin-DPYM

✅ 7 Signs You Came From a Dysfunctional Family:  https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/7signs

✅ Better Sex in Midlife and beyond https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/bettersexinmidlife

JOIN TODD ON SOCIAL:

✅  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/RelationshipBreakthrough
✅  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/todd_creager/
✅  Twitter - https://twitter.com/toddcreager
✅  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddcreager
✅  Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/toddcreager/

Hi everyone! In today's special episode, I'm diving deep into how EMDR therapy can help heal the profound trauma of infidelity. 

As someone who's worked with thousands of couples dealing with infidelity, I'm excited to share how this powerful therapeutic approach can transform both the betrayed and betraying partners. 

I'm also joined by my colleague Mary Eason, an expert EMDR therapist, to discuss the crucial work of EMDR Trauma Recovery Assistance Programs in helping communities heal from trauma.

In this episode, you'll discover:

- Why infidelity is an "interpersonal crime" and how EMDR helps both partners process their trauma

- The fascinating science behind how EMDR works to heal trauma stored in our brains and bodies

- Real client stories showing how couples can achieve post-traumatic growth and build stronger relationships after infidelity

- How EMDR Trauma Recovery Networks are making healing accessible to communities affected by disasters and crisis

I share vulnerable insights from my 40+ years of marriage and clinical practice to help you understand that while infidelity is devastating, there is hope for healing when we address the deeper wounds and trauma patterns. Whether you're a therapist, someone impacted by infidelity, or just curious about EMDR, this episode offers valuable perspectives on healing relationship trauma.

Join me for this important conversation about transforming pain into growth through the power of trauma-informed therapy.

TAKE ACTION:

Todd Creager, LCSW, LMFT

Todd is a sex expert and therapist in Huntington Beach.  He provides relationship counseling to couples throughout Orange County including Irvine, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, Seal Beach and Long Beach.  (714) 848-2288.

You can find more tips and resources from Todd Creager at:  https://toddcreager.com  

Need Help with Healing From Trauma?

How most people deal with trauma won’t help you heal and have the life you want.   

Todd has created a guide…the 5 Keys to Healing From Trauma.  Follow these 5 simple steps that will help you go from surviving to thriving.

👉 Get it here: https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/optin-5-keys-to-healing-from-trauma 

Haven’t left a review yet?

👉 All you have to do is go to: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-about-love-sex-infidelity/id1492757242 and we appreciate your support of this show!

Hi! I'm Todd Creager, and in this powerful episode, I dive deep into the seven signs of unhealed relationship trauma. Drawing from my years of experience helping couples heal and transform their relationships, I'll guide you through these crucial indicators that might be affecting your ability to form and maintain healthy connections.

In this episode, you'll discover:

- How to identify if fear of intimacy, emotional numbness, or overreacting to small triggers are impacting your relationships

- Real-life examples from my therapy practice that illustrate how unhealed trauma shows up in everyday relationships

- Why some people sabotage good relationships and what this reveals about past hurts

- The surprising connection between hyperindependence, codependency, and early relationship wounds

What makes this episode especially valuable is that I share specific client stories that bring these concepts to life, helping you recognize these patterns in your own relationships. I'll explain why we develop these protective mechanisms and, most importantly, offer hope by showing how these patterns can be healed through self-awareness and therapy.

Whether you're struggling in your current relationship or wanting to build healthier connections in the future, this episode provides the insights you need to start your healing journey. Join me as we explore these important signposts of relationship trauma and take the first step toward making the world safe for love.

Listen now to understand the hidden influences that might be shaping your relationships and learn how to move toward deeper, more fulfilling connections.

TAKE ACTION:

Todd Creager, LCSW, LMFT

Todd is a sex expert and therapist in Huntington Beach.  He provides relationship counseling to couples throughout Orange County including Irvine, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, Seal Beach and Long Beach.  (714) 848-2288.

You can find more tips and resources from Todd Creager at:  https://toddcreager.com  

Need Help with Healing From Trauma?

How most people deal with trauma won’t help you heal and have the life you want.   

Todd has created a guide…the 5 Keys to Healing From Trauma.  Follow these 5 simple steps that will help you go from surviving to thriving.

👉 Get it here: https://toddcreager.kartra.com/page/optin-5-keys-to-healing-from-trauma 

Haven’t left a review yet?

👉 All you have to do is go to: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-about-love-sex-infidelity/id1492757242 and we appreciate your support of this show!