LGBT Counseling

Relationships shouldn't take a lot of work

I provide relationship and couples therapy in San Diego working with all aspects of relationships; married, newly committed, engaged, or single-hood issues within the straight, gay, and lesbian communities.  There is a unique need for same-sex couples and the challenges faced with sexuality.  

Learn how to Kick the Relationship Blues and improve communication with your partner.  Relationships shouldn't be consumed with fighting and the emotional roller coaster.  I provide therapy focusing on styles of communication, resolving past and present issues, and creating a more secure attachment.

Superior communication is key to a stronger relationship.  Depending on the issues being addressed, the amount of time investment for couples counseling varies.  I want to help you, if you are facing communication conflicts, coping with family adjustments, premarital concerns, introducing your partner to family, or simply afraid of long term commitment.  Please give me a call and let's see if I can help.

Jennine Gets involved!

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Contributing Author for San Diego Gay and Lesbian News (SDGLN.com)

Your San Diego Therapist Jennine Estes is a contributing author in the health and wellness section of  SDGLN.com.  She writes various articles focusing on building healthy and thriving relationships within the gay community.  Her passion is to help couples, in both the gay and straight communities, learn how to have a secure bond and communicate effectively.

 

Below you will find some of Jennine's recent articles for SDGLN.com...

From "Really Good" to "Really Bad" Relationship (within seconds) 

Have you ever been in a relationship that went from really good to really bad within a few seconds? What happens when the relationship bond drastically changes before your eyes? It's mind boggling. This quick change from up-to-down occurs within many relationships. The bond begins with feeling good and the relationship seems to be on-track.But instantly you two get hit with another bloody war with no warning signs; arguments arise, defensive reactions appear and the comfort zone disappears. Read more...

Communication 101: Steps to build a healthy relationship

Relationships need a strong and sturdy foundation to build a thriving bond- and one of the key elements to the foundation is communication. Relationships don't live solely off of love alone; it requires healthy communicating with the damage-free discussions. Read more...

Relationships and Finances: Becoming a Team

If it takes "two to tango," then it also takes two to get out of the stress. Get your partner involved so you both can carry half the load.  Money is not a simple topic...nor is the process of managing it.  Financial stress is a common issue with couples, especially during a recession. Read more...

 Healthy U-Hauling for Lesbians

You may have heard the joke, "What does a lesbian bring on a second date? A U-Haul." And you may have heard the follow up joke, "What does a gay man bring on a second date?" and the answer is, "What second date?" These two jokes portray the stereotypical differences between the two genders. For those not familiar with the phrase "U-Haul Lesbian," it describes how many lesbians jump quickly into relationships when it comes to love and then move in together after a very short period of dating.  Read more...

 Addicted to the Internet

Do you get on your computer and frequently find yourself lost in the maze of websites for countless hours? Does your curiosity of "who may be signed on Adam4Adam" or the excitement of your next "hunt on Craigslist" take over and you are no longer in control? Is you're your internet life hidden, out of control, or emotionally painful?  Good news...you are not alone.  Read more...

Warning Signs When You're Dating Someone Who is Just Out of a Long-Term Relationship

Dating is no simple journey...and dating someone who just got out of a long-term relationship can be a slippery slope.  Learn how to keep your eyes open for red flags and warning signs.  Read more...

OUT Engagement

Jennine and her colleague Erin Falvey are currently writing a book  for same-sex couples who are engaged.  She the co-founder of OUTEngagement.com that provides relationship advice for gay and lesbian couples who are engaged.