Understanding Real Intimacy
For many people, what often comes to mind when hearing the word “intimacy” is something along the lines of what we think of as romance—or the typical “dance” we engage in to show our interest in relating physically with our partner.
But real intimacy at its highest and most profound level, actually entails achieving closeness in many facets of relating with our partner, such as expressing sensitivity in communication, providing warmth of touch, knowing how to make each other laugh, the ability to engage in healthy “play” and providing extra support during trying times. We cannot separate the physical from the emotional if our aim is to develop a healthy, well-balanced, fulfilling and lasting relationship.
Why many couples lack intimate connection
A relationship troubled by a lack of close connection is often an indication the couple never really achieved true intimacy to begin with. This is to say they never learned how to engender real closeness once the initial “hormonal” phase of the relationship began to fade. Often these problems are directly related to poor or insufficient relationship bonding and attachment during one or both of the partner’s early formative years.
Other times, couples may have experienced healthy, fulfilling intimacy but at some point watched the intimacy erode and dissipate over time. This can develop as the fallout of continued conflict, or by failing to keep the relationship fresh by engaging in new activities or by not spending enough quality time together.
The Good News
Whatever the source of the problem, deeper intimacy CAN be developed and sustained as long as the motivation and commitment to grow together are present. My work with couples employs interventions that help build the type of mature and lasting intimate connection that solidifies the foundation of love and helps maintain the presence of a lasting, fulfilling relationship.
If you’re currently in a relationship and are seeking a path towards greater fulfillment and satisfaction, then I invite you to contact me to discover how I can help you transform your relationship towards a happier, brighter and more promising future. My office is centrally located in the greater Baltimore area, and I offer evening and weekend hours for your convenience.