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How to Strengthen Your Relationship/Questions Answered by Expert Stuart A. Kaplowitz, MFT

SubjectDate Asked
Relationship Help!2/7/2012
  Q: I have been dating my Partner for almost 2 years and we just recently became official but things ...
  A: I hear your concern and yet there must be a ton of things that you like about this guy that keep you ...
HELP!!!!1/2/2012
  Q: I am having SEVERE problems in my relationship. Me and my boyfriend have been together for 2 years ...
  A: Alright Breauna, Good for you. I think the perfect place to start is to say, "you know what ...
How to get him to be intersted in me once more.12/18/2011
  Q: Okay I really don't know we're to start.. Um me an my partner have been together fr four years at ...
  A: I am a bit confused here and perhaps am missing some information. First though, if he is being ...
I Want My Husband To Piss On Me12/15/2011
  Q: Me and my husband have been married for quite a while now and we have a very healthy sex life. ...
  A: Sure. Let me share some thoughts which should not be construed as counseling (as I don't have you ...
Improving relationship and communication11/26/2011
  Q: I am having some issues in my relationship with my boyfriend (who I'll call "T". Recently, he up and ...
  A: I am a bit confused as to what he wants here. As you have shared, there seems to be a lot of ...
Giving Exciting Blowjobs11/18/2011
  Q: My husband and I have been married for about a year now and our sex life is so boring! My husband ...
  A: So am I sitting here wondering if he appreciates you? Of course, this is not therapy but, Susana, I ...
getting past the constant arguing of who is doing more in the house10/21/2011
  Q: How do you get past the point in marriage where it's a big point of contention of who is doing more ...
  A: I appreciate your concerns and it is good to hear you do have some efforts there in the home too. I ...
Problem in relationship10/10/2011
  Q: We write as a couple, and we will try to summarize our current problem, although it is not easy to ...
  A: Sorry for the delay. I have been out of the office. When I hear the time you have spent together, ...
what to make out of this?10/3/2011
  Q: ok so my ex boyfriend told me that he really cares about me, that im def the type of girl for him ...
  A: Good for you in taking some time with this. I am not exactly sure why the relationship ended in the ...
HIM9/22/2011
  Q: WELL ME AND MY BOYFRIEND BEEN DATING FOR 6 MONTHS NOW, BUT WE WERE FRIENDS BEFORE WE ACTUALLY MADE ...
  A: My gosh Jianahlee, I am so sorry for your loss. How did you each cope with first expecting and ...
Interested in everything?9/11/2011
  Q: Does he need to be interested in eveything I say? He seems to think so, and it is causing tension in ...
  A: I think there may be more going on here than perhaps he realizes. Obviously, his wanting to pay ...
commitment phoebia9/5/2011
  Q: I date men in their 40's and 50's. I seem to have a pattern of dating men reluctant to make long ...
  A: You bring up an interesting ? here. Are they too scared to moved forward? It is quite possible ...
she says she's bored, i dont know what to do9/3/2011
  Q: ive been seeing this girl for over 3 months now, amd lately she seems to be losing intererst and ...
  A: So be direct. Tell her how you feel and your hopes, including how you understand you have only been ...
what shall i do9/2/2011
  Q: i'm a 23 years old girl, and my boyfriend is 26, we've been together for almost 3 and a half years, ...
  A: I can hear the concern in your words here and hope he truly understands your level of commitment to ...
I can't lose my love8/30/2011
  Q: My name is Ryan and I'm 23 and just graduated with a Bachelors in Chem in May and have gotten a full ...
  A: I hear your dedication to her and want this to work. What I hear you telling me is that you have ...
I dont know what to do8/28/2011
  Q: my name is kristina and i have been in a relationship with my girlfriend, who is n the US army, for ...
  A: I like how you said she has done so much for me, because I am sitting here wondering exactly what ...
engagement pressure8/17/2011
  Q: my name is Stacee and I am 22 years old living in New York City. I am a senior at my last year in ...
  A: Wow Stacee. What is most clear to me is your wanting this to work and willingness to do what it ...
Affection7/29/2011
  Q: Ive been with this guy for a year and some months. He is not affectionate at all. Whn I drees up he ...
  A: This certainly is a bit confusing Yvette. Have you sat down with him and share your hopes here? ...
my boyfriend lost interest7/27/2011
  Q: I am 21 and I am dating a boy since a year .In the first few days he was very much interested in ...
  A: It sounds like you are discouraged. Good for you in sharing your hopes with him. It does not ...
help with my relationship7/10/2011
  Q: My boyfriend and I have been together for about five years and a half. I'm 21 and he's 22. We're ...
  A: Goof for you in reaching out. I want to make sure we are focusing on the reality of what is ahead ...
Trust and Communication breakage7/3/2011
  Q: I am a 31 yr old gay male. I have been with my partner (33) for over a year and half now. I learned ...
  A: I am sorry to hear that. What has stopped the idea of counseling to address the communication and ...
relationship6/30/2011
  Q: i dont know what to do anymore today my boyfriend got mad because i was across the street from where ...
  A: Well that is frustrating Karla. I can only imagine what you are going through. Here is my idea. I ...
relationship6/20/2011
  Q: i dont know what to do anymore today my boyfriend got mad because i was across the street from where ...
  A: Ok. I may may as confused as you are Karla. My hunch is you guys have been arguing before this. ...
Advice Needed6/8/2011
  Q: My SO and I have been together a little over 2 years. We are in a LDR and the aim has always been to ...
  A: Good for you. It is never too early for couples counseling. Too often, I will hear the idea that ...
no idea what i should do6/3/2011
  Q: I am hoping that you can help me with an issue i am facing. I (D) am 27 years old and so is my wife ...
  A: Did you see my answer from earlier in the week? Here it is..... Sorry Damien, If these are the ...
what to do now6/1/2011
  Q: I am hoping that you can help me with an issue i am facing. I (D) am 27 years old and so is my wife ...
  A: Sorry Damien, If these are the exact details, I would certainly imagine your confusion as to a next ...
soo confused5/28/2011
  Q: My boyfriend and I have been together for the past year. We met at university and since then we've ...
  A: From what you are sharing here, I have a lot of concern. Trust is a major issue and you are not ...
Losing my GF5/26/2011
  Q: I was hoping you could help me please. I have been seeing my girlfriend for nearly a year. She lives ...
  A: I certainly can appreciate your confusion here. I am still stuck on the idea that her family does ...
Confused5/24/2011
  Q: I have been with my boyfriend for almost 5 years now. I recently found out he has a porn addiction ...
  A: First, let me say congrats on your own recovery. You know, firsthand, it is not easy. Have you ...
My boyfriend.5/16/2011
  Q: my name is Alexis. I have been dating my boyfriend for a year.. but we tend to fight alot. Well last ...
  A: Ok Alexis, What do you think about my idea in talking to him? We need to get to the bottom of the ...
My boyfriend.5/14/2011
  Q: my name is Alexis. I have been dating my boyfriend for a year.. but we tend to fight alot. Well last ...
  A: While you do not say what he initially lied about, it sounds like he has suffered in silence about ...
Friendship5/4/2011
  Q: Ok im 13. Not an adult, but I still would like some advice on what happened between me and one of my ...
  A: Sorry Kady, That does not sounds like a good situation to be in. I am not sure Jill has been a ...
Older boyfriend not showing affection5/3/2011
  Q: I love this man...his lifestyle, his ethics, his personality, his looks... We got together in quite ...
  A: Good for you in reaching out. I think these are wonderful questions you deserve to ask and have ...
Am I doing to much in my relationship? Or is it coming to an end?4/17/2011
  Q: Me and my boyfriend have been dating a little over a year and we've been officially going out for ...
  A: First of all, stop comparing yourself to his last girlfriend. We already know he is attracted to ...
Confused4/3/2011
  Q: Forgive me for the long question, but I feel it's crucial to provide as much detail about my ...
  A: In my years working with abuse victims, I have learned that there may be much more that she may have ...
Overcoming Communication Wall4/2/2011
  Q: My SO recently told me that he is having a hard time connecting with me. He said he has tried ...
  A: Absolutely GV. Don't give up hope. I have wondered though what else is going through SO's mind. ...
Overcoming Communication Wall4/1/2011
  Q: My SO recently told me that he is having a hard time connecting with me. He said he has tried ...
  A: I am sorry to hear that but please have hope. Ok. So, what I would start with is to write out all ...
Emotional Intimacy3/26/2011
  Q: My boyfriend and I have been together for almost a year now and I don't know where we're going. We ...
  A: Sorry Danielle, This is a confusing spot to be in. The good news is I am not hearing a lot of ...
Will I get her back?3/15/2011
  Q: I'll make this as short as possible but still try and get the point across. About two weeks ago my ...
  A: Good for you in reaching out. Here is my hunch from what you have shared. It sounds like she has ...
Holding On3/14/2011
  Q: My boyfriend and I have been dating about a year now. We have taken two breaks, lasting roughly a ...
  A: Well, I am not sure there is a firm understanding on how opposite two can truly be. What I would ...
Relationship doubts3/10/2011
  Q: I´ve been dating for a year. And all of sudden, there are little things about the relationship ...
  A: Sorry about that Ana. I hear your frustration. Please know that sometimes it is not what we say ...
Confusion3/6/2011
  Q: ( I apologize for any grammical errors) I'm 20 and I've been seeing my 22 year old gentlemen for ...
  A: I can certainly appreciate your confusion. He has appeared to change and we may not have all the ...
im a mistress2/24/2011
  Q: Im a 21yrs old girl.. Im a mistress of a 42yrs old man. He is married and has two kids. I cant help ...
  A: I am sure that there are cultures and religions where multiple relationships are accepted. I am not ...
Trust factor2/23/2011
  Q: Greetings!! I am a 24 year old woman and have been in a relationship with a 29 year old man for the ...
  A: My hunch is that he is as confused as you are. Is it possible that he misinterpreted your hanging ...
What does he mean2/22/2011
  Q: recently myself and my boyfriend had a conversation and He said i was confident, sensitive, ...
  A: My hunch is you were hoping to hear something more specific. Perhaps some type of sign he is ...
Boyfriend thinking of moving2/17/2011
  Q: I am 22 and my boyfriend is 26. We have been dating a little over a year and have been living ...
  A: I can imagine what you are going through but let's not jump to conclusions. What if due to his past ...
Brother and boyfriend are not getting along2/10/2011
  Q: I have been dating a great guy for the past 6 months, and I love him with all my heart. I live with ...
  A: Has brother expressed concerns before? I am curious why boyfriend thinks brother does not like him? ...
My man is pulling away. Is there hope?1/25/2011
  Q: I hope you can offer me advice. I feel I am going crazy. I am in a relationship with a man I love ...
  A: Ok Tash. Here you go: I believe you do have it all wrong. First, this is not about you doing ...
ADVICE NEEDED1/23/2011
  Q: Well my story is a bit complicated but to cut is short: My boyfriend and I a year ago and fell in ...
  A: I am sorry Sr. This is not easy I am sure. It sounds like the diagnosis from the recent doctor's ...
love relationship1/15/2011
  Q: i want to ask you that how can i pampered my boy friend he wanted me to treat him like a baby and ...
  A: I hope he truly does not want you to treat him like a baby. I appreciate his wanting to be pampered ...
am pete,my gf just changed.1/12/2011
  Q: i have date a girl 4 8months now,but i have not make love to her cos she said she is nt ready dat ...
  A: I am a little confused here. If she is not ready for sex and we push her, you can see you are not ...
help for ex1/11/2011
  Q: Hey, well I need some help if you can offer, my ex well we was going to get back together my mate ...
  A: It is wonderful that you care about your ex and his safety. From what you shared, I would be ...
confusion1/2/2011
  Q: I hope you can help. Well the thing is I've been on and of with this quy since may our relationships ...
  A: I think you are most wise to be exploring possibilities here. Not knowing exactly about your past, ...
Boyfriend of 3.5 Years wants to move in together12/26/2010
  Q: Hey there, I have been with my boyfriend since the beginning of college when I was a freshman and he ...
  A: Congrats on the upcoming graduation. I like how you are being proactive here in thinking about all ...
Relationship problems12/20/2010
  Q: I am dating this boy for over two months now.we are very far from each other. At the beginning, he ...
  A: There could be a number of things going on here but only he can answer for certain. One thing, ...
Husband wife relationship12/15/2010
  Q: i am married from 3 yrs but been together jst frm one yr.we had some bad past family politics ...
  A: I am glad you are reaching out. My hunch is that like for most of us, there are a number of things ...
My boyfriend is loosing interest12/10/2010
  Q: Its been just 3 months since we are together. But my bf is loosing interest in relationship. Last ...
  A: Ok. So he has not been in a previous relationship. That would explain perhaps not knowing how ...
My boyfriend is loosing interest12/9/2010
  Q: Its been just 3 months since we are together. But my bf is loosing interest in relationship. Last ...
  A: You left out some details that may help me to understand better. What are the topics he gets ...
Unsure.12/8/2010
  Q: I'm 17 and I'm in my first relationship with this boy. It's been 3 months, but it hasn't been a ...
  A: Relationships can be confusing....for all of us (smile). Ok. So please realize that since you are ...
i want to trust him..long distence relationbship12/4/2010
  Q: he goes out friday and saturdays and when he does he rarely answers my texts and he doesnt show any ...
  A: Where does he say he goes on these days? Indeed, this could just be his fun time. Have you ever ...
Advice in mending a relationship11/19/2010
  Q: My boyfriend and I went through a personal matter a few months back and up until then it was a ...
  A: While you do not mention what the issue was a few months back, I can hear that trust keeps coming ...
Why is he so cruel?11/15/2010
  Q: My boyfriend is in his late 50's and I am in my early 50's. We started dating about 3 years ago and ...
  A: I am sorry you are going through this. I can only imagine your disappointment. My hunch here is ...
john11/12/2010
  Q: john and i hit it off so very fast with a strong, strong connection. he is in the middle of a ...
  A: I like how you know now is not the best time for a relationship. Many people do not know this and ...
Conflicting feelings11/7/2010
  Q: I’m writing you for advice because I feel like giving up. My girlfriend and I have drifted apart ...
  A: Impressive Mariano, Good for you. Clearly, you have a sense of what is going on for you. With ...
I have boyfriend problems, a little help?11/6/2010
  Q: Ok so here's the problem: I just went out with this guy, name Steven. Before we went out, we were ...
  A: That does sounds frustrating....and confusing. I don't understand it either but we need to find ...
Conflicting feelings11/4/2010
  Q: I’m writing you for advice because I feel like giving up. My girlfriend and I have drifted apart ...
  A: Good for you in reaching out. What I am hearing is that she wants to make things work, is confused ...
I'm past the honeymoon phase and it's sink or swim time! help!11/3/2010
  Q: I am 20 and have been seeing my boyfriend, 23, for around a year now. We did become pretty serious ...
  A: I guess I am wanting to make sure here. Has he done anything that would lead you to worry or is it ...
Question10/31/2010
  Q: so I have been seeing this guy for almost a month now, and we sleep together too, but im not sure ...
  A: I would think you could start with the general idea of his hopes for his future. What does he hope ...
What is goin on??10/29/2010
  Q: I am 25 yrs old and deeply in love with a 32 yr old. We have been together for close to two years in ...
  A: I would tend to agree with you that there are unresolved issues here. Could you have another ...
How do I break old bad habits that I have for ruining relationships?10/24/2010
  Q: Since I was born I grew up in a household where my dad is an alcoholic and is still to this day so I ...
  A: Good for you for sensing what is happening. Have you shared with your boyfriend? He needs to ...
Is he lying10/22/2010
  Q: my boyfriend works long shift and is also going through a divorce with his ex and he will meet me on ...
  A: I can certainly appreciate wondering if he and his ex are truly ending their relationship. ...
The Ex10/21/2010
  Q: I have been dating a man for 9 months and he has a 6 year old son - he has sole custody. His ex ...
  A: Wow Kathi! Good for you in touching base with his family. Sounds like you are already developing a ...
The Ex10/18/2010
  Q: I have been dating a man for 9 months and he has a 6 year old son - he has sole custody. His ex ...
  A: I appreciate your willingness to support the young man's contact with his mom. It is indeed awesome ...
Phone Calls10/16/2010
  Q: My boyfriend and I have been going out for 2 months now and I feel like we already have problems ...
  A: Ok. Let's try to look at our hopes/expectations. Yours are clear. We see each other 1-2x/wk and ...
Confused on feelings10/14/2010
  Q: I have been dating somebody since January. Of course in the beginning things were great but all ...
  A: Now I am convinced that couples and/or parenting would be imperative with the different styles here. ...
Please help10/11/2010
  Q: i don't understand why i act like this but i do. Normally it is hard for me to get over stuff and i ...
  A: Wow CTM, This really sounds discouraging and like a depressive existence. I like how you are wise ...
Stuck at an impasse10/1/2010
  Q: My goal in writing this question is to help me decide whether the dating relationship I'm currently ...
  A: Yes. I am a little concerned too. Is there anyone else that he knows/trusts, perhaps within ...
I'm ruining our relationship9/30/2010
  Q: My fiance and I met in 07 and everything was going too fast at the beginning and it was too much so ...
  A: Michelle, there is so much here. First, I want to make sure whatever medical condition you are ...
confused9/29/2010
  Q: so i have been with my boyfriend for 10 months. we get on brilliant, have had a few disagrements, ...
  A: I can only imagine how being hurt in the past would definitely come up here. Have you shared this ...
please help me9/28/2010
  Q: "i having a bad day 4 three weeks,my girl say she has no feeling anymore 4 me...she also said she ...
  A: Lester, She is reacting right now so I would not take this as rejection. Be patient. Ask her if ...
Confused on feelings9/27/2010
  Q: I have been dating somebody since January. Of course in the beginning things were great but all ...
  A: Sorry about all that. I can imagine wanting to show him a wonderful future together and yet feeling ...
please help me9/26/2010
  Q: "i having a bad day 4 three weeks,my girl say she has no feeling anymore 4 me...she also said she ...
  A: Lester, it is clear she has feelings for you. Perhaps she is just confused. If you care about her ...
Stuck at an impasse9/24/2010
  Q: My goal in writing this question is to help me decide whether the dating relationship I'm currently ...
  A: Yes. I too would like to know what would change if the relationship became "official." I would ask ...
Friendship9/20/2010
  Q: recently I have been going through allot of life changing events. Since the economy took a nose ...
  A: The economy has impacted so many of us. Since you have been the one to support your friends, it is ...
Older man dating a younger woman9/18/2010
  Q: I am a 48 year old man and I am dating a 33 year old woman. She is the most awesome woman that I ...
  A: You are clearly wise Herbert. Try to do some reflecting of what you hear her say and then ask if ...
Older man dating a younger woman9/14/2010
  Q: I am a 48 year old man and I am dating a 33 year old woman. She is the most awesome woman that I ...
  A: Have you shared all these wonderful things with her? Let's make sure she knows and hears the good ...
I'm loosing9/13/2010
  Q: We've been married for almost 10 years, he still doesn't trust me, he thinks i'll cheat on him or i ...
  A: Wow! 10 years in and there are still trust issues? That is definitely a problem. My hunch would ...
How do i know if he shares the same feelings?9/10/2010
  Q: I'm 14 and he's 15,both chinese and malaysian.We've been talking on fb for a least a month now and ...
  A: Let me generalize and say we guys do not do the best job showing our feelings. Most of us were not ...
How do i know if he shares the same feelings?9/9/2010
  Q: I'm 14 and he's 15,both chinese and malaysian.We've been talking on fb for a least a month now and ...
  A: That sounds confusing. What I am hearing is you discounting yourself. He may be holding back his ...
Crushed heart...another update.8/29/2010
  Q: I wanted to give you a recent update and I think it is interesting. Last night I ran into a brick ...
  A: He does care about you...a great deal. I think he is scared about committing right now and what he ...
Crushed heart...another update.8/28/2010
  Q: I wanted to give you a recent update and I think it is interesting. Last night I ran into a brick ...
  A: Alison, I am so sorry. This is difficult and confusing. I know how much you care about him. I ...
How to get the reassurance I need without seeming needy...?8/12/2010
  Q: I am in a three-year relationship with a wonderful man. We are both in our late twenties, both ...
  A: I appreciate your honesty with your feelings here. I hope he knows this as well. Share with him ...
Building love8/6/2010
  Q: I have been married for the past thirteen years and for the past few years my husband and I lived ...
  A: I am struggling with forgiving myself and struggling with my self-esteem. I was trying to please ...
tough love...8/4/2010
  Q: my names Jeremy and I'm 17. So about this girl, it is a really long story I will try to make it ...
  A: Jeremy, I like how you said you are not ready. Good. Then please don't project your angst about ...
Help8/3/2010
  Q: 38 I am in a long distance relationship. I never thought I would be in one, however I have never ...
  A: Your honesty is wonderful. Have you shared this with her? What I am hearing is that you care about ...
Update...8/2/2010
  Q: I tried a follow up but to many follow up. Remember me mentioning that the man that I been seeing ...
  A: Alison, from everything you have shared, he does have strong feelings for you. I do not doubt it. ...
Update...7/31/2010
  Q: I tried a follow up but to many follow up. Remember me mentioning that the man that I been seeing ...
  A: Yes. Alison. He is probably uncomfortable with any feeling words so this will not be any ...
Relationship boundaries, lies and cleaning up a mess7/23/2010
  Q: A few months ago I crossed my gf's boundaries with porn and masturbating. Masterbating nor porn were ...
  A: Paul, first let me say how impressed I am with your understanding of the issue and willingness to ...
Argument help!7/18/2010
  Q: I'm 20 years old and I'm writing because I have a situation I just can't make sense of. Last night I ...
  A: Very confusing here. My hunch is there are unresolved issues: either he had a bad day at work or he ...
I hope he didn't meant it.7/17/2010
  Q: I know some men can hide their feelings or are scared to be in another relationship which can be ...
  A: Wow Alison, how cool about the journalist. I think this ties into the being scared and wondering ...
Lacking chemistry7/14/2010
  Q: I am a 27-year-old business consultant. I met a kind, good-hearted man while I was on vacation and ...
  A: I would certainly believe his move was an indication of wanting more in the relationship. That ...
Physical fights & a 8 year relationship7/12/2010
  Q: My boyfriend and I have been together 8 years, lived together almost 4 years. We are both very ...
  A: Clearly, Cathy, you are a intelligent and insightful person. I agree that our pasts are indeed in ...
I hope he didn't meant it.7/7/2010
  Q: I know some men can hide their feelings or are scared to be in another relationship which can be ...
  A: I am saying I do believe he is scared. I am saying that if you believe he has difficulty expressing ...
I hope he didn't meant it.7/6/2010
  Q: I know some men can hide their feelings or are scared to be in another relationship which can be ...
  A: Sorry Alison, I hope I answered this. I do think he is scared and torn on how to best moved forward ...
Does he mean whatever he says6/30/2010
  Q: . I’m a 22 years old girl, and my boyfriend is 25, he’s a telecommunication engineer and I’m a law ...
  A: What really stands out for me here is "he felt I wasn’t interested to listen to him and he felt he ...
Don't know what to think6/27/2010
  Q: I don't know if I'm just overanalyzing this entire situation. I was away with my boyfriend last ...
  A: When anyone is honest enough to wonder if things are moving too fast, I definitely want to support ...
seeing an older woman6/25/2010
  Q: I asked you a question a few months back about this older woman who is in her early 40's and I am in ...
  A: I do think you are right believing she is holding back because she is scared. It just makes sense. ...
boy dont my boyfriend want to spend time with me?6/21/2010
  Q: Me and my boyfriend are both 17 and we have been dating for 8 but lately it seems like he doesn't ...
  A: Well that certainly sounds like it could be discouraging. What does he say when you calmly mention ...
personality clash6/16/2010
  Q: What is your opinion on the importance of shared interests in a dating relationship? My boyfriend ...
  A: I do think that partners need to have at least some interests that are shared. I also think that ...
Help6/15/2010
  Q: I broke up with my ex boyfriend after being together for 2 yrs. We broke up in December of last ...
  A: What I believe is happening is that you have not had the needed time to grieve the end of your ...
help to save my friendship6/9/2010
  Q: I am Rizwan (male) from Pak, 25, just completed my MBA. From the class 1st to 14, i have been very ...
  A: I am sorry for your pain. Quite honestly, I would wonder if you were indeed both depressed. ...
Relationship going nowhere?6/3/2010
  Q: I've been living with my boyfriend since January. He's currently going through a divorce and was ...
  A: I am curious what his hopes were when the two of you moved in together? What were you hopes? I am ...
i dnt want to5/30/2010
  Q: me and my boyfriend have been in a long distance relationship for 6 months...at fist we where fine ...
  A: I am sorry for your predicament. The first thing though is to take care of you. Being deported ...
saving my relationship5/24/2010
  Q: Im not so sure that this is exactly a question. I know that i am a very challenging person,always ...
  A: Well hi there! I am glad you are taking care of yourself with the medical care. Many do not, so ...
to make my relationship more stronger with my girlfriend5/22/2010
  Q: i really love my girlfriend very much and she too but everytime she's is afraid that whether we'll ...
  A: Ok Aditya, I guess if I wanted to pull out all the stops here, I would do everything I could to ...
to make my relationship more stronger with my girlfriend5/21/2010
  Q: i really love my girlfriend very much and she too but everytime she's is afraid that whether we'll ...
  A: I am glad you are reaching out. Let's try and figure out where her concern is coming from. Any ...
Can't seem to control my jealousy5/18/2010
  Q: I need some advice on controlling my jealousy and anger that I feel when my boyfriend communicates ...
  A: I hear your concern MacKensie and I wonder why the ex is not aware of your relationship? Is this ...
Casual to committed5/17/2010
  Q: Since you are an MFT I thought perhaps you would be able to see some of the dynamics at work in this ...
  A: Ah Sid. I got it. He was probably delaying a meeting for fear of such a conversation. I wonder if ...
I'm confused as to how she REALLY feels about me and how to move-on from here5/14/2010
  Q: I have been in a relationship with this girl for almost 6-months now. She is really a special person ...
  A: It certainly sounds like you are invested here and this gal means a lot to you. Great. I hear your ...
Casual to committed5/10/2010
  Q: Since you are an MFT I thought perhaps you would be able to see some of the dynamics at work in this ...
  A: All this makes sense, no? I mean your hopes for the relationship have changed and, naturally, your ...
frustated5/9/2010
  Q: me and my boyfrd been dating since last 6 years.there were some really bad days.bt they went and ...
  A: I am sorry Neeru. That must be frustrating and discouraging as well. I am not hearing here how he ...
feeling distiant in my relationship5/5/2010
  Q: Why am I feeling distiant in my relationship? I have been in a relationship with this Guy who lives ...
  A: It is interesting why you might feel distant when you are truly so far away (smile). Long distance ...
love4/26/2010
  Q: my fiance and i recently had a break cuz she felt she fell out of love with me and we got back ...
  A: I think it might be best to show her how you care in every way possible. Not just in words but also ...
problems4/22/2010
  Q: i like two people but one isn't ready for a relationship for another two years, and one is already ...
  A: Well, if one is not ready for a relationship right now (and not for a long while it would seem -- I ...
Need help please!4/20/2010
  Q: Ok. My boyfriend and I have been together for 8 years total. He went to prison for 2 1/2 years, and ...
  A: Wow Amy! That does not sounds like a comforting environment. I know I am missing a lot of the ...
rebuilding trust4/19/2010
  Q: My question or questions are is it possible to rebuild trust after it is broken? When do you get to ...
  A: I feel your pain here and I am sorry. I cannot just expect you to get over it as trust takes time ...
why wont he move to the next level4/9/2010
  Q: my name is ashley im 20 years old i have been dating my boyfriend for 4 years now.i want to get ...
  A: I am glad you are on all the ball here. You are right; he is scared. This is fairly typical though ...
i cheated4/8/2010
  Q: well i sorta cheated anyways.. and now he hates my guts. it was an accident and i love him with all ...
  A: I think it will be important to know what he is going through right now. If he is angry let him ...
Confused Ex4/6/2010
  Q: well me (19) and my now ex (18) recently broke up. the reason behind it is really bugging me. She ...
  A: let's take her at her word then. My hunch is that she has been hurt over the years (perhaps not ...
what is wrong with me?4/3/2010
  Q: Me and my boyfriend have been dating for 9 months. We see each other everyday for a good 5 hours or ...
  A: I certainly appreciate your attention to detail and investment here. Good for you. How neat to ...
what is wrong with me?4/2/2010
  Q: Me and my boyfriend have been dating for 9 months. We see each other everyday for a good 5 hours or ...
  A: You are wise indeed. I would wonder if you have thought about what boyfriend thinks? It would make ...
what is wrong with me?4/1/2010
  Q: Me and my boyfriend have been dating for 9 months. We see each other everyday for a good 5 hours or ...
  A: I am glad you are addressing this issue fairly quickly as opposed to waiting months later. When we ...
Is my relationship dying?3/28/2010
  Q: What does "growing apart" mean? I think my boyfriend and I are growing apart. However, I'm not ...
  A: Over time, anything can become (let's say) stale if we let it. It is normal to be confused and ...
Not sure if it's worth fighting for3/27/2010
  Q: Between 2003 and 2007, I was in two separate relationships. In both, I was mostly unhappy. After ...
  A: There is a lot going on here. I am guessing that you did not plan for the pregnancy so early in the ...
issues within my relationship3/26/2010
  Q: I have been with my partner for over a year, and I have a child from a previous relationship. We ...
  A: This sounds like a lot to be dealing with and living with family can add to conflicts for many of ...
Growing apart, nothing in common, racism, is this finally the end?3/24/2010
  Q: Here's some background: I'm black, 27. My girlfriend is Mexican American (although she consider ...
  A: Tyron, Clearly, this does not sound positive. Unless you are going to be happy with just great ...
relatio nship3/23/2010
  Q: I am 49 yrs old and about 6 months ago a guy who I have known fo several years starting flirting and ...
  A: Well, if he is being genuine in sharing, it would certainly make sense about feeling pressured. His ...
Disappointment3/19/2010
  Q: I am constantly doing things to disappoint my boyfriend. I have lied to him in the past. He admits ...
  A: Good for you Dawn in sharing this. I can imagine it is not easy to do so. I always say there is a ...
Frustrated3/17/2010
  Q: I have been with my boyfriend for 5 years now. We have lived together for 4 years. When our ...
  A: Good for you in reaching out. That sounds confusing about the kissing. I am glad you asked and it ...
relationship3/7/2010
  Q: answer me on a mans point of view, ok I met this guy on site and he seems to be nice. I chose him ...
  A: Wow Jewell, this sheds so much more light on the situation and yet it seems so confusing for me, so ...
He Doesn't Know How to Commit?3/6/2010
  Q: I have been seeing a guy for a little over two years. We were extremely close, and had a great ...
  A: Clearly, officially ending a relationship is not easy. It sounds like it is finalized at this point ...
i took a break from my boyfriend3/5/2010
  Q: im 18 and i felt distant from my boyfriend..maybe like he was taking me for granted so i told him we ...
  A: I am curious to how he responded when you said you felt like he was taking you for granted? Did he ...
relationship3/3/2010
  Q: my friend sent me a e mail saying hello take a break, should I assume since he asked for it that he ...
  A: Working on ourselves is indeed hard to do so good for u in trying. What I am hearing you say is ...
Confused2/13/2010
  Q: I was in a 6 year relationship with my boyfriend and broke up with him 6 months ago because things ...
  A: After being in a 6 yr relationship and it not working, I can imagine you not wanting to invest ...
Commitment phobe2/11/2010
  Q: we have dated for about two years and three months now, but once the marriage issue comes up, bf ...
  A: I can hear your interest in the relationship and your motivation. Honestly, I had to check your ...
inconsistencies2/8/2010
  Q: I have been dating my boyfriend for the past 9 months and, I think, both of us thought this was "the ...
  A: I can appreciate the issue of letting go, as it is certainly a common one. I always say there is a ...
Clinging onto people1/28/2010
  Q: Hey 2 years ago I lost my mother to cancer when i was 16, I have found since then I have been a ...
  A: I am so sorry for your loss Elliot. It certainly makes sense why someone would feel the need to ...
Can this be saved1/26/2010
  Q: I have been going out with my girlfriend for just over 6 months,we met online, and everything seemed ...
  A: Leo, what I am suggesting is that if she wants the break to truly reflect on the relationship and ...
Can this be saved1/25/2010
  Q: I have been going out with my girlfriend for just over 6 months,we met online, and everything seemed ...
  A: Wow! This is a tough situation to be in. I would have to believe that a pregnancy and then ...
I messed up1/20/2010
  Q: I have been with my boyfriend for only 3 months now and I messed up so bad. I didn't keep my word to ...
  A: I think it is a good start that you are owning your actions here. Of course, making contact with an ...
My Boyfriend is very Shy1/15/2010
  Q: I am a 22 year old female and am currently in a relationship with a wonderful, smart and funny guy. ...
  A: I am wondering (and guessing) that he is shy around the general community as well. If not, this may ...
Dependency in Relationships1/14/2010
  Q: My boyfriend and I are currently in college (where we met) and have been together for three years . ...
  A: I can appreciate your concern here. Have you shared this with him? I am wondering what his ...
Stressed1/13/2010
  Q: Hey I have been with myboyfriend for a year and a few months n I recently broke up with him but ...
  A: I guess I am unsure as to why you broke up? Perhaps this is a good place to start. If there were ...
Strengthining my relationship.1/12/2010
  Q: I really need advice. I've been with my fiance for 2 years now, everyone who reads this is going to ...
  A: good for you in taking ownership here. That takes a lot of courage and is not easy to face. As a ...
Relationship advice1/11/2010
  Q: I am 25 year old woman about to graduate from college. I have been with my fiance for almost two ...
  A: This certainly sounds like a lot to be going through. Even before the whole paternity question, I ...
can ii save this relationship ?1/10/2010
  Q: Me & my boyfriend broke up recently ; we`ve been friends for years and we tried to get serious but ...
  A: Good for you Tashia, You know this is about you and wanting something you have not had before. ...
my marriage1/6/2010
  Q: Hi doc i have alot going on now a days well for one i am married and i dont think my wife is ...
  A: that is quite an undertaking. If you both were in couples counseling, I would be looking at how you ...
A subject?1/4/2010
  Q: I love my man but he’s driving me nuts. There’s a lot I want to ask but keep to the main issues our ...
  A: As you share even this small bit of information, I am trying to figure out why you want to stay when ...
Walking on egg shells!1/1/2010
  Q: My man use to live with me until last month when he moved into supportive housing for his drug ...
  A: I totally agree with what you are saying and I appreciate that you are hoping for more. My hunch is ...
Lonley12/28/2009
  Q: I'm in a marriage 10 yrs now. We recently have had a lot of stressors financially over the past 2 ...
  A: I am sorry to hear that. With the stress you mention, I would wonder if he is depressed. The ...
self assessment12/27/2009
  Q: am trying to self-assess myself coz recently ive been feeling very sad and upset of things girl been ...
  A: Yes Mike. I do believe that having that kind of job, combined with being a student, as well as just ...
should we take a break?12/22/2009
  Q: I love my boyfriend SO much, let me just start with that... We have been together for 2.5 years and ...
  A: That certainly is a problem. I can appreciate your frustration. It is amazing how when couples ...
How do I keep a 10 year relationship going?12/15/2009
  Q: I am 27 years old and have been with my fiance since high school. The past 10 years for us has been ...
  A: you are alluding to a past that sounds uncomfortable to even think about and yet my hunch is it ...
Boyfriend Issues12/13/2009
  Q: I would love to know how to go about strengthening my relationship. By all appearances I have the ...
  A: This does not sound like a pleasant or fair situation. It does sound like he harbors a great deal ...
Dead end relationship?12/12/2009
  Q: So first I need to say where I am at in life right now. I have been in a relationship for over three ...
  A: I can appreciate how you might feel frustrated as well as torn, wanting to be with someone who may ...
Should I wait for him?12/5/2009
  Q: Me and my boyfriend have been together for a little over 4 yrs. now, we started dating in high ...
  A: I am remembering my high school graduation day and then waking up the next day feeling a bit ...
Confused12/2/2009
  Q: My girlfriend and i have been together for almost 6 months now, everything is great, minus the ...
  A: First let me apologize for my delay in getting back to you. I was out of the office for the ...
need quick help12/1/2009
  Q: I am Tarnjot 21 yrs old from India and my girlfriend 22 yrs old lives in WA USA. Today when i talked ...
  A: Again, Tarnjot, the fact that she is confused is not a bad thing as it is very normal. Remember to ...
need quick help11/30/2009
  Q: I am Tarnjot 21 yrs old from India and my girlfriend 22 yrs old lives in WA USA. Today when i talked ...
  A: This would certainly leave me with a lot of questions and concern as well. Has she given you any ...
I cant figure him out11/26/2009
  Q: Been dating this guy for six months, before he was in a relationship where he was under extreme ...
  A: I appreciate your concern and wondering what to do. On one hand, I like the idea of trying to fully ...
jealousy is driving me mad.11/24/2009
  Q: I recently got back together with an ex boyfriend, I used to be with for two years. We took a ...
  A: Well hi there Jess! Please know that a lot of this makes sense. When you are single, there is no ...
My boyfriend and father of my child says he is not the marrying type.11/14/2009
  Q: I got pregnant shortly after I met my boyfriend. He said that he did not want to get married right ...
  A: Nichole, this sounds disheartening. It sounds like you have been holding out hope that he would ...
Help!11/13/2009
  Q: Let me start off by saying that my boyfriend and I love each other very much and we have been ...
  A: I like hearing your commitment and interest in making things better. I would ask him how he feels ...
My boyfriend wants his alone time11/9/2009
  Q: My boyfriend wants his alone time and i dont know what to do we have only been dating for 2 weeks ...
  A: Ok Erica. I will say that his believing that things are moving too fast is certainly a concern but ...
help.11/6/2009
  Q: I wrote to another allexpert person about two weeks ago about my problem, hopefully I can get a ...
  A: I am sorry Lisa. This sounds like so much to be dealing with. I too am confused as to what he may ...
Is he that wrong for me?11/5/2009
  Q: This is going to sound so dumb so please bear with me. I am recently divorced after being separated ...
  A: Charlene, I appreciate your reaching out during this confusing time. Clearly though, when it comes ...
Found out husband cheated while engaged11/4/2009
  Q: I'm feeling a little lost. Two weeks AFTER my wedding I found out that my husband cheated on me ...
  A: Wow S, I can only imagine what learning that information was like for you, especially since he ...
Confusion and heartbroken/rejected11/2/2009
  Q: we went to the cinema together and he was all over me(holding my waist, putting his face close to ...
  A: Kate, I guess the good news here is that he is being upfront with his feelings/hopes. It sounds ...
Dating a friend10/30/2009
  Q: I met this man three months ago named John. He is a really nice guy, good to me and my grandson. ...
  A: Well Kristin, the neat thing here is that everyone has been open with their wants and needs. The ...
moving past a bad 7 years10/29/2009
  Q: Me and my husband have been married for 7 years. We married young (21) and we didn't really have a ...
  A: I am glad you are reaching out. It sounds like you have been holding down the fort and doing what ...
No Feelings10/8/2009
  Q: Kaplowitz, I am a 23 year old girl and have been in a relationship for almost 6 years with a guy of ...
  A: let's put your best friend aside for a moment. From what you are sharing, you have been a ...
overwhelmed?10/7/2009
  Q: Here is a short explanation of my situation and I need your help fast please! My boyfriend and I ...
  A: Dean, I can only imagine how confusing this must be as well as how a number of other feelings might ...
Ex-boyfriend10/6/2009
  Q: I just met the most wonderful women a little over a month ago. I was actually on a blind date when I ...
  A: Todd, this is certainly a tough one. Like your gut, I fear the same. It had only been "days ...
relationship problems10/4/2009
  Q: I am having trouble with my relationship. I cureently don't feel happy but i do not want to end the ...
  A: I am so sorry for your struggles here. It does sound most confusing, like he is pushing you away. ...
regain that spark with my girlfriend9/28/2009
  Q: my girlfriend and i have been dating for over a year and a half. i sometimes feel like our "spark" ...
  A: Ricky, I am glad you are reaching out. I love your attitude and wanting to enhance the passion. My ...
reconnecting with ex9/27/2009
  Q: Kaplowitz, In November, I reconnected with my ex on facebook. Both he and I have been married 16-18 ...
  A: My gosh! There is so much that you are going through. I can only imagine the feelings that you are ...
Is it Normal to Expect an Apology9/26/2009
  Q: As I stated in my earlier correspondence my spouse will not discuss the problem she has created in ...
  A: Wow Kiley! There seems to be so much going on here. I can certainly appreciate your fears and ...
Is she scared?9/25/2009
  Q: I am currently involved in a long distance relationship that has gone fairly smooth. We have been ...
  A: You are welcome Mike. Honestly though, in your shoes, I would indeed be concerned with the son and ...
Is it Normal to expect an Apology9/24/2009
  Q: Following a Normal disagreement in which there was absolutely NO yelling, NO shouting, NO threats & ...
  A: Wow Kiley! I am certainly confused and can imagine how you might be as well. That said, I don't ...
Is she scared?9/23/2009
  Q: I am currently involved in a long distance relationship that has gone fairly smooth. We have been ...
  A: Whether we are talking about cold-feet or her guard being up, I can imagine some things coming up. I ...
Getting back together with an ex9/21/2009
  Q: I have sent you a question before and found your response helpful, so I am sending you another ...
  A: Wait Aurelia. You are a bright and insightful person; you know what you want and it seems most ...
how to make him care9/20/2009
  Q: how to make him care more for me and to be more passionate.like for example i call him when am out ...
  A: That is a good question Reeree. We cannot make him care though. Perhaps we might want to take the ...
Anger and competivness9/17/2009
  Q: She's the one, carries with all the traits I have ever wanted However, we've been struggling , ...
  A: I need to understand this better and have a few questions here. Can you give me examples of how ...
Is This Normal?9/14/2009
  Q: Ok, so I got my first boyfriend 3 weeks ago. Since he's my first I really didn't know how to act. ...
  A: good for you in reaching out. I can imagine how it might be bittersweet to hear a friend's ...
What should I do? :(9/12/2009
  Q: Okay, im pretty young. Im 15 years old, my boyfriend is 16. He lives 5 hours away. So we're in a ...
  A: That has to be hard Mya. I can imagine being so far away and not having as many ways to see each ...
spending time with ex's9/5/2009
  Q: I was not really sure if addressing this problem here would be the right idea but it seems that my ...
  A: Jamie, I can truly appreciate what you are sharing. I also thank you for your candor and will ...
Missing butterflies9/3/2009
  Q: My girlfriend and I have been going out for just over a year. Her longest relationship prior to ...
  A: I am curious what would happen if you shared with her what I explained in my very last paragraph ...
Missing butterflies9/2/2009
  Q: My girlfriend and I have been going out for just over a year. Her longest relationship prior to ...
  A: Mark, I am glad you are reaching out. I think you are insightful and wonder how much of her ...
Boyfriend losing interest in me8/26/2009
  Q: my boyfriend is 7 years older than me we have one child together she is 6 months. We stay with my ...
  A: Brittany, there is so much going on here. The fact that knives are being pulled is a major concern ...
Crazy ex-boyfrend; should we discuss end of relationship?8/24/2009
  Q: I care very much for someone who is deeply depressed. He is an ex-boyfriend of mine, and although ...
  A: You are clearly most sophisticated in attempting to deal with his depression. Unfortunately, he ...
Crazy ex-boyfrend; should we discuss end of relationship?8/23/2009
  Q: I care very much for someone who is deeply depressed. He is an ex-boyfriend of mine, and although ...
  A: Wow! I am concerned here. It sounds like you really care about this guy and that he cares for you ...
Mending our Marriage8/21/2009
  Q: I need to know how to win my wife back. I have totally destroyed our marriage. We have been married ...
  A: Carlos, there are a number of issues here. First, I am concerned about her safety. When you say ...
I need help!!!!8/15/2009
  Q: My girlfriend and I have been together a little over 2 years. She is 27 and I 29. I love her so ...
  A: Joe, this might be a wonderful opportunity for growth and I am glad you are open to look at yourself ...
Relationship break8/10/2009
  Q: I have been with my boyfriend for awhile. He has had a history of depression and anxiety and is on ...
  A: Mary, I am glad you are reaching out. I am wondering about the depth of his depression. The ...
Should I take a hint?8/9/2009
  Q: My boyfriend and I have had a bit of a rocky 4 year relationship, we have broke up a couple times ...
  A: It is indeed hard to believe that children's names would be a make or break situation for him. That ...
Starting a relationship Over8/8/2009
  Q: I met my boyfriend in March online. I drove from OH to PA to meet him. Things went really well we ...
  A: Tiffany, I am glad you are reaching out. I feel your struggle. Your words cry out angst and worry, ...
Am i Going to Be Hurt?8/5/2009
  Q: this is my first time asking anyone for help in the department.. and i don't know i can get help.. ...
  A: Amber, I can certainly appreciate your concern. The fact that your ex cheated does not help your ...
something is missing in my relationship7/29/2009
  Q: I've been in this relationship for almost 6yrs and we have a 2yr old child together.My partner has ...
  A: What is really neat here is how you recognize him being a "wonderful person, a great father".... and ...
Am I losing him?7/27/2009
  Q: I have been stupid and jealous towards a girl who is in love with my boyfriend. I know he wouldn’t ...
  A: Wow Jess! I appreciate your honesty and that must be difficult. In your shoes, I too would have ...
back on track7/24/2009
  Q: I've been in a relationship for two and a half years. It's been kindof rocky. We have quite a few ...
  A: I am glad you are reaching out Laurie. I would first want to learn more about that "not looking B4 ...
a friend with a crush7/22/2009
  Q: This isn't a question about a dating relationship. I was wondering if you could help me understand ...
  A: I appreciate your concern with your friend. It sounds like this has been a meaningful friendship ...
Don't know what to do anymore7/19/2009
  Q: I started dating this guy about over a year ago. I have never had a serious relationship, I am now ...
  A: So Becky, what you are saying is that you know he makes time for others and could make more for you. ...
Lust is gone7/18/2009
  Q: I have been with my partner for 4 years. We aren't engaged, and I am starting to despise him for it. ...
  A: I'm sorry Hayley. That cannot be a positive feeling. Again, maybe it is how he is hearing it. He ...
possessive behaviour7/17/2009
  Q: Well i'm 19 and i've been with my girlfriend for nearly 10 months. Things are going well but i feel ...
  A: Well, first let me say how positive it is that you are recognizing your behavior as a concern. Have ...
Inconsistencies7/15/2009
  Q: For the last few years one particular guy and I have been orbiting in and out of each other's lives. ...
  A: Aurelia, Clearly you are pretty insightful here. Long-distance relationships have additional ...
Don't know what to do anymore7/14/2009
  Q: I started dating this guy about over a year ago. I have never had a serious relationship, I am now ...
  A: Becky, it is clear to me that you care about him and are invested. We need to find a way to connect ...
Don't know what to do anymore7/11/2009
  Q: I started dating this guy about over a year ago. I have never had a serious relationship, I am now ...
  A: I am sorry Becky. I hear your pain and investment. The fact that this appears to be that first ...
confused?7/10/2009
  Q: I have been with my guy for 4 years and we have 2 kids together. He has been really mean to me ...
  A: I am glad you are reaching out. He may need to as well. His behavior may be a way of attempting to ...
Inconsistencies7/9/2009
  Q: For the last few years one particular guy and I have been orbiting in and out of each other's lives. ...
  A: Yes. This does sound confusing. I also share your concern that you had the feeling / need to check ...

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How to Strengthen Your Relationship

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Stuart A. Kaplowitz, MFT

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Expertise

how to help relationship. How to address issues within relationship......I am pretty open here

Experience

20th year in the field. Managed and directed clinical programs. Now, I work out of my own office as well as supervise counselors

Organizations
California Association of Marriage & Family Therapists

Publications
The California Therapist

Education/Credentials
B.A. Psychology M.S. Counseling Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist

Awards and Honors
Hero of the Heart - Covina Valley USD

Past/Present Clients
I work with individuals, couples, families and children

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