Episode two explores how our family of origin affects our adult relationships, particularly in how we handle our emotions. Below are some key ideas and questions considered by your cohosts, Dee Kelley and Jim Shalley.

1. First let’s consider that you are not in a bad marriage. Instead it might be things you don’t yet understand about your family of origin.

2. Consider your family of origin, and how, as a child, you formed attachments to your emotions (or didn’t form attachments).

3. We discuss the masculine and feminine energies that exist within all of us.

4. We look at the difference between how we present ourselves to others (our persona) and our true or best self.

5. When we are younger we develop patterns of coping that help us survive. Typically there comes a time when those patterns are no longer helpful or useful.

6. We don’t wish trauma on anyone, and the painful consequences of trauma must be validated. However, trauma can be the doorway through which one finds growth, greater health or a better place in relationships.

7. Exercise: List the effective and ineffective ways that emotions were handled in your family of origin. (List as many as you can.)

You can connect with the cohosts through their respective websites:

AFCCounselors.com (Dr. Shalley) / www.InYourDreams.Coach (Dr. Kelley)