What do you do when you’ve tried everything—therapy, groups, individual work—and you still feel stuck?

In this powerful conversation, Dr. Kevin Skinner and Maryanne Michaelis, LCSW, explore why couples get trapped in the same relational patterns and, more importantly, how those patterns can change.

This episode speaks directly to couples who feel hopeless, exhausted, or unsure whether real progress is possible. You’ll learn why feeling stuck is often a signal—not of failure—but of unexamined patterns, unspoken fears, missing structure, or hidden truths.

Why couples repeat the same conflict “dance”

The difference between individual progress and coupleship healing

How secrets vs. structure (Patrick Carnes) keep relationships stuck

Readiness for vulnerability and why partners move at different paces

Letting go of expectations that damage repair

The role of emotional regulation in rebuilding connection

Why validation—not fixing—is the pathway forward

How authentic conversations create real movement in recovery

We validate the fear, grief, anger, and confusion that can make trust feel impossible—and why not being “ready” is an honest and healthy place to start.

You’ll learn how pressure, defensiveness, and relapse cycles block progress—and how structure, consistency, and compassion create safety.

March 13–14, 2026 (Live + Recordings Included)

👉 Get 30% off through the end of February

With Dr. Kevin Skinner, Maryanne Michaelis, Michelle Mays & Darrell Brazell

🔹 New YouTube Channel:

🔹 Our Three Podcasts:

Human Intimacy Podcast – Couples & relational healing

RISE: Hope & Healing After Sexual Betrayal – For betrayed partners

Reclaim – Recovery from unwanted sexual behaviors

Have a topic or question you’d like us to address?

To provide research-based, trauma-informed resources that help individuals and couples heal, rebuild trust, and create deeper connection.

If this episode helped you, please: