Practical Family Living

Honesty

Brenda Spina, M.S., LMFT, LPC

Deciding to be honest is only the beginning of living an honest life. c onsciously choosing to not deceive is an ongoing journey that challenges the reality of who we are and where belonging begins.

Building Self Esteem

Brenda Spina, M.S., LMFT, LPC

There isn't a parent I know who doesn't want to be a part of helping their child grow up feeling good about who they are. Our self-esteem actually is developed on three different levels. Included in this articles is an exercise to help a ll of us know the beliefs we have developed and how God's Word helps us rewrite our view of self.

Learning to Fight Fair

Brenda Spina, M.S., LMFT, LPC

All of us have times when we disagree or fight and fight dirty. There are helpful guidelines to fighting fair. They may be ideal but these guidelines promote the best possible atmosphere for you and for your loved ones.

Characteristics of a Healthy Family

Christine Vander Wielen, M.S.W., LCSW

Helpful guides to creating a healthy family

Helpful Guidelines For Resolving Conflict

Christine Vander Wielen, M.S.W., LCSW

Conflict is normal and full of potential if we manage it skillfully

How to Stop Bullying

Christine Vander Wielen, M.S.W., LCSW

Helpful suggestions and step by step plan to end bullying

Attributes of a Successful Marriage

Lynda Savage, M.S., LMFT, LPC

This article lists 15 keys to a successful marriage, including the habit of forgiveness, letting go of mocking and contempt when under duress, and rehearsing the good rather than the “bad” about the other.

Martha and Phil

Lynda Savage, M.S., LMFT, LPC

Martha and Phil are like many couples who feel confused as to why their relationship is not better than it is. Read on as you discover some core shifts in behavior and thought that will help increase their ability to relate intimately and honestly.

Stay Strong While Raising Strong Willed Children

Christine Vander Wielen, M.S.W., LCSW

Strong willed children can be amazingly creative, innovative and steadfast while at the same time frustrating and exhausting to parents. This article discusses some tools for parents to use to teach, train and motivate their strong willed child.

HAPPY KIDS, PEACEFUL PARENTS

Mary Lambrecht, M.S. LMFT

Nature is filled with the very nature of God Himself. Article explains how God can use His creation for uniting families through opening up communication, and simple enjoyment of one another.

Turning Financial Stress into an Opportunity for Growth and Attachment in Marriage

Christine Vander Wielen, M.S.W., LCSW

Many couples experience financial stress at some point in their marriage. However uncomfortable that stress may be, it can also be an opportunity for growth and attachment in marriage. This article gives tips on how to discuss finances with your spouse in a positive way and to develop a team approach to family finances.

Tips for Talking About Finances

Talking about money can lead to conflict, but research shows that having a plan on how to handle disagreements leads to happier marriages. This article provides some useful tips on handling your differences regarding finances.

Teens and Media Violence

This article describes how television, video games, and film violence affects teens, how parents can help protect their teens from viewing media violence, and how to discuss media violence with their teens.

Family Finances: Don't Go Solo

Christine Vander Wielen, M.S.W., LCSW

Many couples experience financial stress at some point in their marriage. How they communicate that stress to one another is significant. In this article, Christine provides a plan for couples to talk about family finances that builds unity and a team approach.

What Men Wish Women Knew

Brenda Spina, M.S., LMFT, LPC

Interviewing a number of gentlemen, Brenda presents concisely and directly the thoughts and concerns these men expressed regarding the women most important to them. Covering acceptance, purpose, affection, and trust, these men placed themselves in a vulnerable position to help us understand pieces of their experience and commitment to the people they love.

Don’t Argue With a Woman as You Would With a Man

Lynda Savage, M.S., LMFT, LPC

Six things to avoid when arguing with a woman. A valuable resource in how to negotiate the maze of arguing; especially with a woman. Because some things work better than others when arguing, these points will bring you success in walking out disagreements regardless of your gender.