In the Press

The transition to an empty nest can be challenging for many parents, as it requires adjustments and shifts in routines. Kalley Hartman, Clinical Director at Ocean Recovery in Newport Beach, California, acknowledges that this major life change may bring up feelings of loneliness, sadness, or loss. Parents may also experience a mix of pride and fear as their children embark on a new chapter of life, proud of their accomplishments but worried about their future. Coping with the empty nest can be a complex emotional journey for parents as they navigate this significant life transition.

As the new year approaches, licensed therapist Kalley Hartman suggests that couples should consider making relationship resolutions alongside their personal goals. Hartman, who is also the clinical director at Ocean Recovery in Newport Beach, California, emphasizes that even healthy relationships can benefit from improvement. By setting goals together and sharing emotions, couples can foster growth in their relationship in the coming year. Experts recommend five New Year’s resolutions to help keep love alive.

Licensed therapist Kalley Hartman, who serves as the clinical director at Ocean Recovery in Newport Beach, California, warns that heated arguments can result in both parties feeling unheard and misunderstood, potentially leading to breakdowns in communication and trust. To prevent this, experts emphasize the importance of de-escalating conflicts.

Kalley Hartman, LMFT, clinical director at Ocean Recovery, explains that the honeymoon phase in relationships typically lasts from a few months to a couple of years, characterized by excitement and anticipation. However, Hartman notes that the three-year mark is often seen as a critical period when many relationships face challenges due to the transition from infatuation to long-term commitment, which can sometimes result in breakups.

According to Kalley Hartman, LMFT, clinical director at Ocean Recovery, getting carried away in an argument and making accusations towards your partner can escalate the situation. Hartman advises against sending accusatory texts, as they can fuel the conflict further. Instead, she suggests expressing how your partner’s actions make you feel, aiming for understanding rather than blame, as a more effective approach to resolving conflicts in relationships.

Kalley Hartman, Clinical Director of Ocean Recovery and a licensed marriage and family therapist, suggests agreeing on the duration of a relationship break. Compromises such as shorter breaks, frequent check-ins, or temporary in-person visits can be considered if one partner is not on board with a break.

Kalley Hartman, LMFT, clinical director at Ocean Recovery in Newport Beach, California, warns that financial discrepancies in joint accounts or unexplained credit cards and loans could be red flags of trouble in a relationship. It could indicate that a partner may be using money to finance a secret life, according to Hartman.

According to Kalley Hartman, a licensed marriage and family therapist, many couples enter into marriage without discussing their relationship expectations, leading to frustration and confusion later on. Essential aspects such as religious differences, future goals, and values should be addressed before tying the knot to ensure alignment. However, if issues arise during marriage, couples counseling can help improve communication and address challenges.

Family therapist Kalley Hartman states that children may cheat due to reasons such as pressure to perform, fear of failure, lack of confidence, or difficulty understanding the material, and it does not make them “bad kids.” Understanding the underlying motivations can help provide appropriate support.

Licensed marriage and family therapist Kalley Hartman suggests that a good sign someone is interested in getting to know you better is when they remember small details about your life. This demonstrates that they care, pay attention, and make an effort to recall what you’ve shared. It shows genuine interest in you as a person, rather than simply seeing you as a superficial connection.

Sharing your innermost thoughts and vulnerabilities with your partner can deepen your connection and foster true intimacy. When you are accepted and loved for who you truly are, including your fears and insecurities, it can boost your self-awareness, self-esteem, and self-love, as noted by Kalley Hartman, therapist and clinical director at Ocean Recovery. Embracing your authentic self in a loving relationship can free you from hiding your perceived flaws, allowing you to be fully seen and accepted by your partner.

Licensed marriage and family therapist, Kalley Hartman, suggests agreeing on the duration of a break in a relationship. Clear communication and mutual agreement on a shorter break, more frequent check-ins, or temporary in-person visits can help navigate this challenging time in a relationship.