In this episode of Penned in Ink, we explore how Melissa’s 20+ years as a clinical mental health counselor shape her views on relationships, communication, and long-lasting love.

From lessons learned through her work with hundreds of clients in sessions to moments of vulnerability at home, this honest and insightful conversation dives into what counseling can teach us about empathy, respect, and the everyday work of building a healthy relationship with your partner.

Melissa opens up about the most common struggles she sees in her clients, including miscommunication, the lack of respect for differences, and an imbalance in shared responsibilities. We explore how those same themes play out in our 30+ year marriage.

💬 Key themes:

• What a counselor sees most often in relationships
• Why communication and empathy are at the heart of lasting love
• How professional insights can improve personal relationships
• What “active” and “reflective” listening really mean
• Why gratitude is one of the most underrated tools for connection

🎧 Listen if you…

• Are struggling to fully communicate with your partner
• Want to get a better understanding of the different ways we communicate
• Are looking for tools to improve your own communication skills
• Want to gain a better appreciation of the role counseling can play in building relationship skills

Chapters

00:00 – Episode teaser

00:29 – Welcome and introduction

01:00 – Melissa’s career background

09:32 – The work of a counselor

12:45 – Common relationship challenges

23:22 – Career milestones

29:36 – How counseling skills help build relationships

35:18 – When counselors struggle too

41:40 – A deeper appreciation for our strong marriage

44:50 – Pen to Paper: Practice active and reflective listening

49:00 – Disclaimer - This podcast is not clinical advice

51:00 – Closing thoughts

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