D'Arienzo Psychology Blog

The Gottman Approach to Couples Therapy

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

The Gottman Approach is a research-based approach to couples therapy that has been shown to be effective in helping couples improve their communication, resolve conflict, and strengthen their relationships. What is the Gottman Approach? The Gottman Approach is based on the idea that all relationships go through ups and downs, and that it is possible to learn how to weather the storms and come out stronger on the other side. The approach focuses on helping couples to: Understand their own and their partner’s emotional needs. Communicate effectively with each other. Resolve conflict in a healthy way. Build trust and intimacy. Maintain a positive outlook on their relationship.

How does the Gottman Approach work? The Gottman Approach is typically conducted over a series of weekly or biweekly sessions. In each session, the therapist or psychologist will work with the couple to: Identify their strengths and weaknesses as a couple. Learn how to communicate effectively with each other. Resolve conflict in a healthy way. Build trust and intimacy. Maintain a positive outlook on their relationship.

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5 Tips for Effective Communication

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

Communication is one of the most important skills in any field. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just trying to get through your day, being able to communicate effectively can make a big difference. In this post, we’ll discuss five tips for effective communication. By following these tips, you can improve your communication skills and make a positive impact on your relationships, your career, and your life. Tip #1: Be clear and concise. When you’re communicating with someone, it’s important to be clear and concise. This means using language that is easy to understand and avoiding jargon or technical terms that the other person may not be familiar with. It also means getting to the point quickly and avoiding rambling.
Tip #2: Use active listening skills. Active listening is just as important as clear communication. When you’re listening to someone, it’s important to make eye contact, nod your head, and ask clarifying questions. This shows the other person that you’re paying attention and that you’re interested in what they have to say. Tip #3: Be respectful of others. Even if you disagree with someone, it’s important to be respectful of their opinion. This means avoiding personal attacks and name-calling. It also means listening to their point of view and trying to understand where they’re coming from. Find out more tips….

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How to Spot a Narcissist

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

How to spot a narcissist? Dr. D’Arienzo, Clinical Psychologist here. I am going to share five signs that indicated you might be dealing with a narcissist. Receiving criticism: Their fragile self-esteem can’t even handle constructive criticism. Feedback seems like a direct attack. Losing Control: When they lose control of situations and people around them, they feel powerless because it contradicts their grandiose image of themselves. Not being admired: They thrive on admiration and attention and when they are ignored and don’t get what they think they deserve they pout, and get frustrated and angry. Being exposed: They create a false persona to maintain their inflated self-image but when someone exposes their true self, vulnerabilities or manipulations, they go on the attack. Losing a competition: They think they are superior to others and when someone beats them, they feel inferior, so they react with rage, make excuses, and “file away” a serious resentment. Losing is personal to a narcissist.  Obviously, we all have some of these traits, but if you’re narcissist, you would have most of these and to the extreme. If that’s you or your in a relationship with one, get professional help.

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Anger Management Techniques That Work

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

By reading the article, you will learn about Diaphragmatic Breathing (DB), Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) and Mindfulness. Each strategy is discussed with empirically based research confirming that each technique is effective in enhancing your ability to manage your emotions and anger. The article was edited by Dr. Justin D’Arienzo, Licensed Psychologist (Forensic and Clinical Psychologist) and Anger Management Expert.

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Minnesota Premarital Course

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

Nowhere else can you gain access to so much relationship changing information for $30 from a board certified clinical psychologist and a certificate to save $75 dollars on your Minnesota Marriage License.

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Psychologist of Tiktok

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

I’m amazed at what goes viral too, Real Time with Bill Maher! Thank you for thinking my video was funny enough to highlight during your first show with a live audience in two years!! You’d think the advice was a no brainer but lots of couples struggle to know when it’s time to move on! Follow me on TikTok @dr.justindarienzo to learn more (obvious) relationship tips!!

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The Greatest Gift

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

The Greatest Gift December 15, 2021 It’s the holiday season and if you’re like me, you’re around a lot of family this time of year. As a psychologist, I hear about all the burdens that families bring over the holidays – such as people bringing their dogs to an event without asking permission, grandparents micromanaging […]

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Surviving & Thriving Over the Holidays

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

2021 has been a very difficult year for everyone. A lot of you have lost family or friends to COVID-19, political division, divorce or other accidents, tragedies & health related concerns. There’s been a lot of loss this year & your life has changed because of it. Your view on the holiday season might’ve changed too. I want you to know, you are not alone in your struggles & you will get through the holidays – even if that means leaving your old rituals behind to create new ones.

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The Trauma of Infidelity

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

There is no greater sense of betrayal than being the victim of infidelity. Discovering an affair calls into question every assumption about your partner, yourself, your relationship and your life. Sexual jealousy – both perceived infidelity & actual infidelity – is a driver of intimate partner violence for both men and women. Men & women kill each other, the other’s lover and themselves over infidelity. That is how serious the impact is. 

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The Impact of Divorce

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

Children and Divorce and My Experience as a Forensic Psychologist in Family Court: As a custody evaluator I’ve seen these parents at their worst. I remember one mom fighting for custody who aghast that her husband took the children to the pediatrician’s office. She told me that dads don’t belong in the pediatrician’s office….

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