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Dr. Dana McNeil

Dana is a gifted, compassionate, and practical therapist and the founder of The Relationship Place. Dana has achieved the highest level of training possible in the Gottman Method of couples therapy. She has special interests in working with all clients, including those who live out-of-the-ordinary lives or have alternative relationships.

Are You Dating a “Mama’s Boy”? 5 Signs to Watch (and What to Do)

As Seen In /

At The Relationship Place in San Diego, one pattern we see in couples therapy is when a partner’s relationship with his mother begins to interfere with intimacy, trust, and equality in the romantic relationship. I recently contributed expert insight to a feature on SELF about “mama’s boy” signs. Below is a deeper dive you can share with your partner—or bring to therapy—to start shifting the dynamic. 5 Signs the Mother–Son Dynamic Is Impacting Your Relationship Constant comparisons to his mom. If you’re regularly measured against […]

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happy holiday couple

Setting Boundaries for Happy Couple Holidays

Couples Counseling, Holiday, Relationship /

The holidays can be one of the most emotionally charged times of the year for couples. Families have long-held traditions, expectations, and opinions about how things “should” be done — and many newly married or long-term couples find themselves caught in the middle. Maybe one partner’s family expects everyone home for Christmas morning, while the other insists on the big dinner with their side that same evening. You love both families and want to please

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A couple sitting on a bench.

How to Prepare for Couples Therapy (and Find the Right Therapist for You)

Anxiety, Couples Counseling, Depression, General, Growth, LGBTQ, Parenting, Relationship, Uncategorized /

Deciding to seek couples therapy is one of the bravest — and healthiest — steps you can take for your relationship. Still, it can feel intimidating. Many couples wonder: Where do we start? How do we know if we’re choosing the right therapist? What should we expect from the first few sessions? And let’s be honest — many of the people reading this fall into one of three groups: – You’ve tried therapy before and

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ChatGPT vs. Real-Life Therapy: How AI Can Support You (But Not Replace Your Therapist)

Couples Counseling, General, Thoughts /

A client recently sat down in my office in San Diego and said, “I had a long talk with ChatGPT last night.” She explained that she’d asked it for advice on her relationship and even told it to “give it to her straight, not in the soft mode.” She laughed as she said it helped her feel seen in the moment—but she didn’t want to replace therapy. What she wanted was more tools she could

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Separation and Divorce Counseling

Rekindling Love for Empty Nesters: A Guide for Parents

Aging, Parenting, Relationship /

Rekindling Love for Empty Nesters: A Guide for Parents Introduction: The New Season No One Warns You About For couples over 50, becoming empty nesters can feel like standing in a quiet house with a loud silence. The last child heads off to college, and suddenly, it’s just the two of you again. No carpools. No sports schedules. No college applications. Just space, quiet—and a partner who might feel more like a roommate than a

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Is dating someone with less money ‘a nightmare’ for couples? – As Seen In – Business Insider

As Seen In /

Income disparities can have a negative impact on romantic relationships, especially around power dynamics. In an article by Amanda Goh for Business Insider, Dr. Dana McNeil, PsyD, LMFT, Gottman-trained relationship therapist and our founder, explains how differences in wealth and income can foster resentment and an unhealthy dependence. Whose contributions are more valuable? Income disparity can impact romantic relationships, particularly around power dynamics. For instance, it could be an issue when one person sees their

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impact of san diego's cost of living on relationships

Is San Diego’s Cost of Living Hurting Your Relationship?

Relationship /

San Diego is one of the most desirable places to live in the United States, but with its stunning coastline and vibrant city life comes a high cost of living. For couples, financial stress can create tension, impact emotional well-being, and test the strength of a relationship. Understanding the impact of San Diego’s cost of living on relationships and learning strategies to manage financial stress together can help couples navigate these challenges and build a

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impact of relocation on relationships san diego

Overcoming Relationship Challenges as a Newly Transplanted Couple in San Diego

Relationship /

Moving to a new city can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially for couples navigating a significant life transition together. The impact of relocation on relationships poses a challenge to both partners. San Diego, with its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and endless sunshine, offers plenty of opportunities to build a fulfilling life. However, adjusting to a new environment can put stress on a relationship, leading to feelings of isolation, uncertainty, and even tension.  By approaching

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life coaches vs therapists : what's the difference

Life Coaches vs. Licensed Therapists: Understanding the Differences and Choosing the Right Support for You

General /

In today’s world of personal development, many people seek professional guidance to help them grow, improve relationships, and navigate life’s challenges. Two common sources of support are life coaching and therapy. While both can be valuable, they serve distinct purposes. What’s the difference between life coaches vs therapists? In general, life coaches focus on specific areas of improvement and goal-setting, while therapists help clients take a deeper look at how different aspects of their lives

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how to deal with toxic family members

How to Deal with Toxic Family Members and Save Your Sanity – As Seen In – Baltimore Chronicle

As Seen In /

Family relationships are meant to be a source of love and support, but when they turn toxic, they can take a serious toll on your mental health. In an article by Baltimore Chronicle, Dr. Dana McNeil, PsyD, LMFT, Gottman-trained relationship therapist and our founder, explains how to recognize harmful patterns, set boundaries, and protect your well-being when dealing with toxic family members.​ Recognize the Signs of Toxicity Identifying toxic behaviors is the first step toward

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