The following is adapted from my studies with Dr. Tatkin and from attachment research.
Secure-functioning relationships allow us to be the best we are individually. It does not mean that you will lose your identity or freedom. In fact, you will have more, since trust is a guarantee you two make. Your relationship will become a place of support and love. As well as a place to call home + restore life-energy.
Securely functioning relationships provide safety, security, and mutuality you both create together.
They have the power to unlock joy and confidence that could not be achieved in a solitary form.
They operate via pro-relationship orientation over a pro-self orientation. By being pro-relationship you both are better resourced to achieve personal goals and common goals.
Secure-functioning looks like a “three-legged race.” If one partner goes down, both go down.
You both understand the purpose of being together. Your deeper discussions will be important as the novelty and excitement of the courtship phase transitions into a sense of stability and permanency in the relationship. ***Remember, we are not necessarily wired for monogamy.
Securely- functioning partners are interested in ways to uplift their partners and positively impact his/ her / their mood.
They are aware of their partner’s vulnerabilities. With this awareness, you both have more agency with each other. If you two are skilled in avoiding triggering vulnerabilities, there will be less conflict and more harmony in the relationship. This in turn can provide more safety.
As partners you do not compete with anything or anyone for resources. Common Examples: work, in-laws, friends, sports, porn, or alcohol/drugs, etc...
Secure folks remember that their partner is usually on auto-pilot and they are not intentionally being difficult - usually this automatic mindset is operating with a program from a childhood experience. As partners, you both need to be gentle with your understanding + soothing of each other.
These nine habits, if practiced regularly, promote secure-functioning in enduring relationships. As you read through the list, did you find yourself reflecting on the habits you and your partner already share, or perhaps did you identify some new elements to implement into your relationship?
If you are located in Baltimore, MD and are seeking couples work, please see the information below.
Until Then. Be Well.
Susan
Susan hold's session hours: T/W/Th 8 am - 8 pm
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Just to name a few of our therapeutic areas of focus --> Trauma Informed, Attachment and Neuroscience based, LGBTQIA, Art Therapy, Couples Work featuring the PACT approach, Family Systems & Internal Family Systems, Brainspotting, and Afrocentric Approach.