Coupled With...

What Real Connection Looks Like in the New Year


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The end of the year can make even strong relationships feel tender, tense, or disconnected. In this episode, Rachel explains why December amplifies whatever is already under the surface — not because anything is wrong, but because your nervous system is tired, overloaded, and scanning for closure. She breaks down how “emotional audits” form, why pressure kills connection, and what real intimacy looks like when capacity is low. You’ll also learn a simple one-sentence “micro-bridge” to help you feel more connected heading into the new year.

What We Cover
  1. Why the holidays amplify longing, tension, and unfinished repairs
  2. How “emotional audits” quietly reshape December
  3. Why capacity drops long before love does
  4. How misfires and misreads intensify end-of-year disconnection
  5. The difference between engineered intimacy and grounded connection
  6. A one-sentence micro-bridge for real closeness in the new year

Resources

  1. Free Course | Break the Cycle: A self-paced introduction to understanding your patterns and nervous system responses.
  2. Private Coaching (Limited Availability): High-touch, individualized support for deep relational pattern change.
  3. The Attachment Revolution Membership — Waitlist: Ongoing education, tools, and live support for building more secure relationships.
  4. Meaningful Journey Counseling (WA residents only): Licensed therapy services for individuals and couples in Washington State.


Disclaimer

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for mental health treatment, therapy, diagnosis, or medical advice. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapist-client relationship. If you are experiencing significant distress, please seek support from a licensed mental health professional or medical provider.

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Coupled With...By Dr. Rachel Orleck