Arlene Foreman, M.S.

The stress of a troubled marriage can lead to heart disease, high blood pressure, and depression. When your body is in a state of high tension day after day and year after year, the effects can be devastating. Your body takes a beating. Successful marriages are the result of a couple intentionally behaving in a way that every decision they make is to preserve, enrich and enhance their marriage. They have a common vision for this marriage and a common belief system of how to get there. We'll teach you excellent communication and problem-solving skills. When confronting your partner, you'll both learn to speak in a softer, kinder tone of voice. Statements like "you, you, you!" only make your partner feel angry and frustrated. Instead, try saying "I feel," and "I would like," but remember, keep your partner's dignity in tact. Once you change the way you communicate, you'll find that your partner responds differently too. We'll teach you what to say and do to keep the argument from escalating. Soon you'll learn how to resolve conflicts more easily and will find them far less frightening. You'll learn how to: Understand and comfort your partner even when you disagree . Tell your partner what you want instead of expecting your partner to know. Stand your ground when it matters. Show support for your partner's goals. Listen to your partner with your heart. Understand how a sincere intention to change can make a significant difference in your marriage.