Best Dr Stephen Mitchell And Erin Mitchell Macp Podcasts (2025)

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The Map to Relationship Renewal: Mindfulness Over Negativity 23:15

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4d ago23:15

23:15

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Have you ever caught yourself thinking that all your relationship problems are your partner's fault? What if your perspective is actually contributing to the conflict cycle? When we repeatedly focus on negative thoughts about our relationships, those patterns become o…

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"I'm Not Enough" vs "I'm Not Important": The Root of Couple Conflicts 27:14

7d ago27:14

27:14

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Shame might be the most misunderstood force in your relationship. Not the obvious kind—but the subtle variety that hijacks conversations without you even realizing it's there. In this revelatory episode, we uncover how shame operates as the hidden engine behind the mo…

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The Ick Factor: When Your Partner Suddenly Feels Gross 22:05

7d ago22:05

22:05

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. That moment when your partner's chewing suddenly sounds like nails on a chalkboard. When their touch makes you cringe instead of melt. When even their kindest gestures somehow feel... gross. Welcome to "the ick" – that mysterious feeling of sudden repulsion that can l…

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When Your Partner Isn't Pulling Their Weight 26:26

15d ago26:26

26:26

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Feeling like you're carrying the weight of parenting while your partner merely "helps out" when asked? This tension over unbalanced parenting responsibilities ranks among the most relationship-threatening conflicts couples face—often leading to questions about whether…

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Your No and My Yes: How Small Parenting Differences Create Big Tensions 22:45

22d ago22:45

22:45

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Ever find yourself locked in a heated argument with your partner over something that seems trivial—like whether your child can ride their bike in the street instead of on the sidewalk? These everyday parenting disagreements can quickly escalate, leaving you both frust…

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Since Kids, We Never Have Time for Our Relationship! 26:18

1M ago26:18

26:18

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. The back-to-school season brings a whirlwind of activity that can leave even the strongest relationships feeling disconnected. Soccer schedules, school supplies, and new routines create a perfect storm where couples find themselves working efficiently as logistics par…

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When Your Partner Makes Life Harder 24:21

1M ago24:21

24:21

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Remember when you first fell in love? That magical feeling of finding someone who didn't trigger your deepest wounds but seemed to heal them instead? Fast forward through careers, kids, and countless responsibilities, and suddenly those same wounds are wide open again…

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What We've Learned From Couples: The 100th Episode! 35:52

5M ago35:52

35:52

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. In this milestone 100th episode of Couples Counseling for Parents, Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP reflect on the transformative relationship wisdom they've gathered over the years of working with couples facing the unique challenges of parenthood. The i…

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When Your Past Lives in Your Parenting 36:08

5M ago36:08

36:08

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Remember when you and your partner felt like soulmates, deeply connected and growing stronger together? Then parenthood arrived, and suddenly those old insecurities you thought were healed came rushing back with surprising force. You're not alone, and no—you didn't ma…

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From Shame to Understanding - A 5-Step Guide to Talking About ADHD with Your Partner 21:23

6M ago21:23

21:23

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Navigating the complexities of ADHD in relationships requires more than just understanding the condition—it demands a thoughtful approach to communication, empathy, and mutual support. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP tackle the tough questions head-on: W…

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ADHD in Relationships: Navigating the Neurodivergent Disconnect! 42:18

6M ago42:18

42:18

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. The complexity of ADHD can transform a loving partnership into a battlefield of misunderstanding, shame, and resentment—especially when children enter the picture. After receiving an overwhelming response to a social media post about ADHD in relationships, we knew we …

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Parenting on Purpose: Moving Beyond Parenting Differences 39:21

6M ago39:21

39:21

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. What happens when two loving parents disagree about how to respond to their child's behavior? This deeply personal episode dives into one of the most challenging conflicts couples face—differing parenting approaches. Through the story of Justin and Lori, we examine ho…

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Could I Get a Little Validation Over Here? 26:49

7M ago26:49

26:49

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Life as a parent can often feel like a flood of responsibilities, expectations, and emotional exhaustion. In this episode, Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP, address the cycle of invalidation that can arise between partners as they try to juggle tasks and …

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I Handle Stress "Right," It's My Partner That Handles Stress "Wrong" 26:02

7M ago26:02

26:02

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. This episode dives into the dynamics of emotional regulation between partners in stressful parenting moments, highlighting the contrasting coping behaviors of downshifting and upshifting. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP provide practical insights using a…

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From Silent Resentment to Connection 37:39

7M ago37:39

37:39

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. In this episode, we explore the pervasive issue of resentment in couple relationships, particularly among parents. We discuss its roots in unexpressed emotions and decision-making conflicts, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, active listening, and mutual und…

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Good Sex-An Interview with Author Dr. Candice Nicole Hargons 37:40

7M ago37:40

37:40

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Ever wonder how parenting impacts your intimate relationship? Join us for a compelling conversation with renowned sex expert Dr. Candice Nicole Hargons as she shares insights from her latest book, "Good Sex." She dives into the challenges of maintaining a healthy sexu…

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I Need You to Stop Needing Me 30:49

8M ago30:49

30:49

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. This episode addresses the often invisible burden carried by default caregivers like Tasha, who find themselves overwhelmed by both family and partner expectations. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP, delve into the mismatched needs that arise from these dy…

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6 Principles That Will Save Your Parenting Partner Relationship 34:23

8M ago34:23

34:23

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. This episode dives into six transformative principles for strengthening couple relationships amidst the challenges of parenting. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP encourage listeners to embrace unity in problem-solving, assume positive intent, grant each o…

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The Death of Defensiveness: How to end the cycle of defensiveness in your couple relationship 37:09

8M ago37:09

37:09

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Defensiveness can be a significant roadblock in relationships, particularly among parenting partners. The episode delves into how defensiveness complicates communication, using the example of Kylie and Leslie and their conflict over forgotten pasta. Stephen Mitchell, …

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From Tiredness to Togetherness in Parenting 42:40

9M ago42:40

42:40

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP discuss the "Embodiment Chasm," a concept that highlights the different experiential realities between parenting partners. Through the story of Maria and Todd, the hosts explore how the differences in parenting experiences…

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Holiday Loneliness: How partner's can handle the Holiday Blues 35:49

9M ago35:49

35:49

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. The holidays can be magical. The holidays can also be lonely and sad due to family drama, the loss of a loved one, not living close to family etc. Many times couples can experience conflict balancing the desire for a magical holiday and not wanting to ignore the "lone…

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Presence over Presents? Strengthening Connection During Holiday Gatherings 31:06

9M ago31:06

31:06

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. What happens when you're physically present but emotionally checked out during family gatherings? Meet Jameson and Mel, a couple whose holiday season often spirals into tension due to mismatched engagement levels. Listen as we unpack their story to understand the sign…

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Navigating Holiday Stress: Presenting a United Front with Extended Family 31:38

10M ago31:38

31:38

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Master the art of navigating family dynamics during the holiday season and emerge with a stronger partnership. In this episode, we explore the pressures couples face when interacting with extended family, featuring the real-life example of Heidi and Renee. Their story…

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How Understanding Yourself Strengthens Your Parenting and Partnership 34:08

10M ago34:08

34:08

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. What if understanding your past could transform your present relationships and parenting journey? This episode promises to guide you through the nuanced dynamics of becoming both a strong parent and partner, featuring the relatable story of Jude and Grant, who navigat…

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Avoiding the Passive-Aggressive Trap: Communication tips for Parenting Partners 26:03

10M ago26:03

26:03

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Transform passive-aggressive tension into moments of connection with proven communication strategies for parenting partners. Join us, Dr. Stephen Mitchell and Erin Mitchell, as we explore how understanding the essential pause between feeling and reaction can change th…

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The Dilemma: Do I Need to Prioritize My Relationship Over My Kids? 34:26

11M ago34:26

34:26

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Have you ever wondered if focusing too much on your kids might be pulling you away from your partner? Join us as we unravel this intricate conundrum through the lens of Regina and Sebastian, a couple attempting to juggle the needs of their relationship with the demand…

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Navigating Nighttime Duties and Differing Parenting Styles 25:58

11M ago25:58

25:58

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Unlock the secrets to a stronger parenting partnership as we explore the intricate interplay of trust and communication in relationships. What happens when differing parenting styles collide, especially during nighttime duties? Join us to uncover how real-life couple …

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Criticism and Conflict: How to Turn Tension Into Teamwork in Your Relationship 34:54

11M ago34:54

34:54

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Have you ever found yourself caught in a whirlwind of negative banter with your partner, wondering how it all escalated so quickly? Join us as we explore the pitfalls of critical behavior in relationships through the story of Janelle and Hector. This episode reveals h…

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What Happened to Our Sex Life: Intimacy After Baby 27:01

11M ago27:01

27:01

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. What happens to intimacy when children enter the picture? Many parents find themselves asking this question, and we're here to provide some insights. Join us, Dr. Stephen and Erin Mitchell, as we untangle the complex web of maintaining a healthy sex life post-kids. Th…

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How to Make Up After a Fight 28:58

12M ago28:58

28:58

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Have you ever had a fight with your partner that left you both feeling distant and unsure of how to reconnect? In this episode of Couples Counseling for Parents, Erin and Dr. Stephen Mitchell dive deep into the art of repairing after conflict. Using the relatable stor…

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Finding Your Reset 30:02

12M ago30:02

30:02

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. In today's episode, Stephen and Erin tackle the feeling many couples experience after kids—that sinking thought that "maybe I’ll never feel truly loved or appreciated." Using the high-stress periods of pregnancy and birth as a case study, they break down how partners …

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My In-laws are driving me crazy!!! 26:48

1y ago26:48

26:48

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. One of the most complex relationships to navigate for parenting partners is relationships with their parents and in-laws. What can parenting partners do to have healthy relationships with their parents/in-laws and give their kids strong relationship with grandparents?…

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My partner keeps telling me I need to talk about my emotions, why does it matter? 29:09

1y ago29:09

29:09

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Does talking about emotions matter? We see so many couples were one partner's primary complaint is that their partner cannot talk about how they feel. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP discuss whether talking about emotions matters and what couples can do …

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My Partner is So Needy! 43:10

1y ago43:10

43:10

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Is the preoccupied attachment style really just needy? We examine how childhood experiences shape adult relationships, focusing on preoccupied attachment. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP discuss what preoccupied attachment is, how it impacts a couple rel…

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My Partner Has No Emotions! 45:04

1y ago45:04

45:04

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Ever wondered if an avoidant partner can truly connect emotionally? We examine how childhood experiences shape adult relationships, focusing on avoidant attachment. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP discuss what avoidant attachment is, how it impacts a cou…

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Do You Love Me, Do You Want Me, Do You Accept Me?-Three Important Questions Parenting Partners Ask Each Other Every Day 36:48

1+ y ago36:48

36:48

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. There are three questions that parenting partners are asking one another every day. They might not be asking them directly but in their conflict, in their frustration, in their stress these are the questions that underline all of these interactions. Stephen Mitchell, …

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It's something every couple with kids feels but doesn't talk about: Loneliness. 38:17

1+ y ago38:17

38:17

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. It's something most parenting partners feel but no one really talks about: Loneliness. That's right. Many parenting partners find themselves feeling lonely during the parenting years and it can be hard to talk about with your partner. This feeling of loneliness can al…

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The Art of Partner Support in Pregnancy, Postpartum, and Beyond! 36:41

1+ y ago36:41

36:41

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. If your partner has ever been pregnant. If you have ever had a partner in the postpartum phase of parenting. If you are a parent period. You need to hear this! Being aware of the impact of pregnancy and postpartum on your partner's body matters. Even if you are beyond…

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I'm The Default Parent!-A Conversation Every Couple Needs To Have 38:59

1+ y ago38:59

38:59

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. No one likes having the default parent conversation because it typically ends up in both partners getting frustrated and going to their separate corners. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell MACP help you understand how to have the conversation differently and in a…

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"We Just Don't Feel Connected Anymore"-How Couples Can Get Reconnected in the Midst of Parenting 37:06

1+ y ago37:06

37:06

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Have you ever caught yourself wondering how the spark you once had with your partner could disappear so fast? Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP discuss how the "little" moments of everyday parenting life can lead to disconnection, and how these "little" mo…

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What is the 80/80 Marriage?: An Interview with Kaley Klemp and Nate Klemp, PhD 51:01

1+ y ago51:01

51:01

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Discover a refreshing take on love and commitment as Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP sit down with Nate and Kaley Klemp, authors of "The 80/80 Marriage." https://www.8080marriage.com/By Dr. Stephen Mitchell and Erin Mitchell, MACP

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Thriving Together While Tackling Career and Family Demands 26:21

1+ y ago26:21

26:21

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. We hear it all the time, "My partner cares more about their job than our family." Or "My partner's job gets the best parts of them and we get what's left over at home." Work is something that happens everyday and is big source of conflict and hurt in parenting partner…

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My Partner's Mental Health is Negatively Impacting Our Home 27:49

1+ y ago27:49

27:49

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. What do you do when you think your partner's mental health is negatively impacting your family? How do you bring it up? What if your partner dismisses your concerns? Join Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP as we shed light on the profound impact that condit…

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When Stress is Driving Your Couple Relationship 28:23

1+ y ago28:23

28:23

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Every relationship faces the siege of stress, but how we navigate through this inevitable reality makes all the difference. Imagine this case example: Josh, retreating into his shell under the pressure of life's stress, leaves Lindsay spinning plates to maintain the f…

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Navigating Love and ADHD: An Interview with ADHD Advocate and Coach Katy Weber 57:19

1+ y ago57:19

57:19

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Every parenting partnership has its struggles, but when ADHD is in the mix, it's like navigating an intricate dance of dopamine, interest, and misunderstanding. Katy Weber shares her wisdom on fostering teamwork in a couple relationship impacted by ADHD and reframing …

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When A Relationship Feels One-sided 31:04

1+ y ago31:04

31:04

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Feeling like you're paddling a two-person canoe alone can be exhausting, but it's a situation commonly felt in parenting partner relationships. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP discuss how this dynamic happens in parenting partner relationships and how pa…

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Interview with Rachel and Marley Shepard-Ohta of Heysleepybaby 49:57

1+ y ago49:57

49:57

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. On our latest podcast, we're joined by Rachel and Marley Shepard -Ohta from HeySleepyBaby, who share their experience navigating the wild ride that is understanding kids and sleep. Join Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP as they share this dynamic and insig…

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Can Kids Ruin Your Couple Relationship? 28:46

1+ y ago28:46

28:46

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Erin Mitchell, MACP and Stephen Mitchell, PhD unwrap the complexities of parenthood and its impact on couples. We crack open the often-misunderstood narrative that children are the wrecking ball of romance, with a sprinkle of humor and personal tales like Stephen's ow…

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The Invisible Wall: Addressing Resentment in Your Relationship 36:05

2y ago36:05

36:05

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Ready to unravel the knotty issue of resentment lurking in your relationship? Today, we're stripping down and tackling this common, yet often unspoken, issue that silently strains and stresses many parenting partner relationships. In our candid conversation, we shed l…

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Sometimes I Think Parenting Is Easier Without My Partner—How Do I Tell Them? 32:08

2y ago32:08

32:08

Got a question, comment, or just want to drop some encouragement? Send us a text. Ever feel a strange sense of relief when your partner is not around and you're handling the parenting duties solo? Let's be real, it's not uncommon. Stephen Mitchell, PhD and Erin Mitchell, MACP discuss how partners can talk about this sensitive topic in a way that br…