Navigating Relationships and Wellness with Priscilla Rodriguez of Modern Wellness Counseling

Title: Navigating Relationships and Wellness with Priscilla Rodriguez of Modern Wellness Counseling

In the latest episode of the Working Moms of San Antonio podcast, we were joined by Priscilla Rodriguez, a licensed marriage and family therapist and owner of Modern Wellness Counseling. Priscilla shared valuable insights into her work, focusing on couples counseling, relationship dynamics, and mental wellness. Her approach and expertise offer practical tips and encouragement for those wanting to strengthen their relationships while managing the demands of family life.

### Introducing Priscilla Rodriguez

Priscilla Rodriguez is the founder of Modern Wellness Counseling, an online group practice specializing in couple and family therapy. Offering her services virtually, Priscilla connects with clients across a vast geographical range, including those uncomfortable with traditional therapy setups. Her practice also features online courses, extending support even further.

### The Journey into Counseling

Priscilla's career in therapy sprang from her interest in human development. Initially pursuing a career in medicine, Priscilla discovered a passion for helping people navigate relationships through her studies in human development and family sciences. Her work as a research assistant studying couples' interactions during conflicts inspired her to delve deeper into marriage counseling.

### Effective Communication and Emotional Focused Therapy

Priscilla explains that when new clients come for therapy, especially couples, there's often a driving need to improve communication. Many issues between couples stem from rooted fears and attachments, influencing how they argue, communicate, and connect. By employing emotionally focused therapy, Priscilla helps couples break negative cycles and find autonomy and control in their interactions.

### Duration and Commitment in Counseling

When asked about how long counseling should last, Priscilla acknowledges the variability depending on each couple's situation. While six to eight sessions can provide a foundation, about 15 sessions—a span of approximately four months of weekly meetings—are often recommended for substantial progress.

### Practical Tips for Couples

Priscilla emphasizes the importance of intentional actions, suggesting small gestures like a longer kiss or dedicated conversation time without distractions. Her advice is to be intentional about connecting, rather than focusing solely on grand gestures or lengthy commitments.

### Addressing Mom Guilt and Communication

A recurring theme in Priscilla's counseling is the mental overload that many moms experience. This weight can impact relationships and communication within a family unit. She highlights the necessity of sharing responsibilities and being upfront about personal needs in a partnership. Without open communication, partners may make assumptions or harbor resentment, which are detrimental to a healthy relationship.

### Financial Conversations as Relationship Navigators

Money often introduces stress in relationships. Priscilla encourages couples to understand their individual values regarding money, allowing them to create mutual respect and clarity. Understanding each other’s perspectives on spending can prevent conflicts and enhance connection.

### Balancing Me-Time and Couple Time

While personal time is crucial for individual well-being, making time for your partner is equally essential. Priscilla suggests balancing personal and couple time with intentional, albeit brief, moments of connection to maintain a healthy relationship dynamic.

### Virtual Counseling: Accessibility and Consistency

With the shift to virtual counseling accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, Priscilla finds that clients can maintain better consistency with their sessions. The ease of attending virtually eliminates many logistical barriers, helping clients to engage more consistently and comfortably.

### Building a Strong Support System

Priscilla underscores the value of a supportive community around couples. Such networks not only bolster personal goals but also enrich relationships by providing encouragement and backing in various aspects of life.

### The Science of Stress

Cortisol, often referred to as the stress hormone, can negatively impact health and relationships. Priscilla explains that holding a partner's hand during stressful times can significantly reduce these stress levels, strengthening emotional ties and lowering physical manifestations of stress.

### Insights into Counseling

Priscilla finds fulfillment in witnessing the transformations clients undergo. Through open discussion and discovering personal insights, individuals can evolve and adopt healthier relationship habits. Her work illustrates that therapy is not a last resort but a step towards better understanding and closeness.

### Connecting with Priscilla Rodriguez

For those interested in enhancing their relationships, whether through therapy or educational resources, Priscilla offers various ways to connect. Her website, Modern Wellness Counseling, and social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok offer additional support and content tailored to modern relationships.

Priscilla’s insights reiterate the importance of conscious communication and shared understanding in maintaining a healthy relationship. Implementing even small changes from her recommendations can lead to meaningful improvements, ensuring that partnerships not only survive but thrive amidst the challenges of daily life.