Where do couples tend to get stuck and bogged down in their daily communication with each other? How do we fall into the trap of criticizing and nagging when we actually just want to create positive change and grow together? Risa Williams talks to DBT expert, Dr. Marcus Rodriguez, on validation and communication skills people can use when they're in long term relationships.

They discuss:

-How to use positive reinforcement to influence positive changes in behavior

-Where we tend to get stuck in our requests and demands with others

-Tools to try when direct communication isn't working and accepting things "as is" isn't working either

-How validation is one of the most important tools for developing understanding and awareness of each other

**Congratulations to Jess Fiedler winner of our Double Book Giveaway! Jess will be receiving Dr. Scott Waltman's book, The Stoicism Workbook, and Risa's new planner, The Tiny Wins Journal - thanks to everyone who participated on instagram!**

**Check out Risa's new online self-guided digital class: The Tiny Wins Workshop! It's on patreon now at a discounted price and there are 9 slots available at the early bird price: patreon.com/c/risawilliams. You can also take the class on Skool and at risawilliams.com***

Host: Risa Williams, risawilliams.com, @risawilliamstherapy

Guest: Dr. Marcus Rodriguez, youthandfamilyinstitute.com, @drmarcusrodriguez

Support the show

For info on books, workshops, guests, and future episodes, please visit: risawilliams.com.

*All tools discussed on the show are meant for educational purposes only and not as a replacement for therapy or medical advice.