Keys to an Okay Marriage

This won’t be one of those articles offering “Secrets to Super Sexagenarian Sex.” Or “Keys to a Lifetime Storybook Marriage.” If you know those, please pass them my way.

But my wife, Dr. Barbara Nemko and I have been together for 43 years, three “in-sin” and 40 official, with no plans for divorce. While our marriage wasn't made in heaven, we’ve made it work here on earth. One of our long-time friends said, “Marty, I figured you and Barbara would be among the first to divorce.” Naaah-nah-nah-naah nah.

In my PsychologyToday.com article today, I share the secrets to our marriage’s long-term okayness.

Watch What You Say: There are more minefields than ever.

When I was growing up, my parents said, “Never discuss religion or politics.”

Today, the tread-lightly topics have expanded. Some observers praise that as due sensitivity to race, class, and gender. Others lament that as undue sensitivity and censorship. Either way, the need for caution is real.

My PsychologyToday.com article today offers examples of statements that in earlier years would have been less dangerous.

The Perfect Romantic Dinner

You’ve had the coffee date and the movie date. Now you think it’s time to invite sweetie to your place for dinner and perhaps dessert.

As my PsychologyToday.com article today, I offer thoughts on how to make it a wonderful evening.

Serious Messages in Jokes about Therapists

Sometimes, we say in jest truths we can’t say seriously. Jokes about therapists are no exception. They may be instructive both to counselors and clients. 

In my PsychologyToday.com article today, I describe the unspoken issues within ten therapist jokes that have stood the test of time. 

Privilege? Should We Redistribute More?

Should we redistribute more? In my PsychologyToday.com article today, I explore both sides in an internal debate.

20 Questions: Help in choosing your career

As my PsychologyToday.com article today, I offer the 20 questions I’ve asked my clients that have been most helpful in unearthing a wise choice of career.

Your Career Values

It’s easy to assume that your values are like most people’s: be ethical, want to make a contribution, have work-life balance, etc.

But people’s values vary more than one might think. As my PsychologyToday.com contribution today, I offer a self-assessment inventory to help you home in on the sort of career or job you want. It may also help you decide if you want to stay in your current position and current career.