dating a divorced dad

Woman Dating A Divorced Dad Is Clueless And Needs To Get A Grip

No one can prepare someone for dating a divorced dad (or mom). I can say that because when I started dating divorced dads (a decade ago) I was clueless. This was new territory for me. That said, I had an advantage because I was a divorced mom, so I did understand the complexity and challenges … Read more

love simon

Have You Seen “Love Simon?”

‘Love, Simon’ represents a turning point in high-school romance genre  by Jackie Pilossoph for Chicago Tribune Media Group I have often thought about how unbelievably difficult it must be for a gay teenager to come out. It’s challenging enough for any high school kid to feel accepted and “normal,” but imagine the pressure of trying … Read more

looking to meet someone

Looking For A Relationship? Look In The Mirror First

It’s not unusual for clients to begin my relationship coaching program in a somewhat fretful state and looking for a relationship. Having spent years devoted to their careers, they eventually came to see the lack of balance in their lives.   Some name what they feel as an inner emptiness. Others describe their lives as … Read more

Ever feel Like the Underdog in Dating?

Are you an underdog when it comes to dating and relationships? In this week’s Love Essentially, I explain what exactly it means to feel like an underdog in love and relationships, and I offer dating advice for underdogs who want to be smart, and find and sustain healthy romantic relationships.   Are you the UMBC … Read more

dating a man with kids

Dating A Man With Kids And Feeling Left Out? It’s Not Personal!

It might be one of the biggest gripes divorced women have: when you’re dating a man with kids and feeling left out. Several years ago, I was in a relationship with a divorced guy who had a 13 year-old daughter who refused not only to meet me, but she wouldn’t even acknowledge that I was … Read more

couples therapy

Relationship Problems? You’re Not Crazy And You’re Not Alone

In this week’s Love Essentially column, I write about what I learned interviewing therapist, David Klow on relationship problems, and how the problems you think are unique to you aren’t. If you’re having a relationship problem, it’s probably more common than you think by Jackie Pilossoph for Chicago Tribune Media Group For 13 years, David Klow … Read more

taking ownership of your emotions

Online Dating Tips From an Engaged Couple And A Relationship Coach

This is an inspirational story about a couple whose online dating experience turned into an engagement. The article includes online dating tips from the couple, as well as from a dating and relationship coach. Tips for navigating the crazy world of online dating from a success story by Jackie Pilossoph for Chicago Tribune Media Group   … Read more

why can't I find a man

Why Can’t I Find A Man And Why Do I Always Feel Alone?

 When a woman emailed me these two questions: 1) Why can’t I find a man? and 2) Why do I always feel alone? I felt I had to dig deeper. So, I asked her some questions. I asked about her past, her relationship history, how she met the guys, what the circumstances were, etc.   After … Read more

benefits of meditation

The Benefits Of Meditation: For Both You And Your Relationship

There are so many benefits to meditation. They are countless! But meditation can do more than just help people as individuals. Did you know it can help your relationship? In this week’s Love Essentially, I interviewed an expert, Jaci McCarty, on what exactly meditation can do when it comes to love and relationships. Meditation for … Read more

divorce advice

Divorce Advice: Here’s What Happens When You Move On Too Fast

  This reader is seeking divorce advice: I have been divorced for two years (no kids), and I have since gotten remarried to an amazing lady and we have a child together.  You would think all of the emotion would be gone regarding my first marriage, right?  WRONG.   He goes on to say that … Read more

I slept with my ex and regret it

I Slept With My Ex And Regret It. Of Course You Do.

This reader writes: “I slept with my ex and regret it.” She goes on… My Ex husband left me for a horrible woman. I did everything, I respected him, I was loyal and truly loved him. After several months of being with this horrible woman, he admitted he made a mistake. I slept with my … Read more

holiday gifts

Three Amazing Holiday Gifts You Can Give That Don’t Come In A Box

With the holidays right around the corner, holiday gifts are on everyone’s minds. What’s ironic is that people buy holiday gifts to show their love. But there are other ways to show someone you care. So, in this week’s Love Essentially, I address three holiday gifts that don’t come in a box, and the happiness … Read more