Mary Kay Cocharo, MFT

10/10/2025

As a couples therapist, I see every day how mental health shapes the way we love, communicate, and connect.

On World Mental Health Day, let’s remember: taking care of your mind isn’t selfish—it’s foundational. When you nurture your own well-being, you strengthen your relationship, too.

Take a moment today to ask yourself (and your partner):
💭 What do I need to feel supported right now?

Learn more about how mental health and relationships intertwine:
👉 https://www.mkcocharo.com/mental-health-and-relationships/

Explore the connection between positive mental health and happy relationships in this blog. Discover how factors like self-worth, resilience, and supportive connections contribute to overall well-being and resilience.

10/09/2025

October is here—and Halloween is just around the corner! 🎃 I’ve always loved this holiday: the costumes, the creativity, the freedom to be someone (or something!) else for a night.

But have you ever wondered why dressing up feels so good?

In Imago theory, we talk about the Lost Self—the parts of us we had to hide growing up to fit in or stay safe. Maybe that daring, silly, or sensual side still longs to come out and play.

Halloween gives us permission to reconnect with those hidden parts. So this year, notice what your costume says about you. It might be pointing you back toward your wholeness.

It’s never too late to reclaim your full, vibrant self. 🌕

I have the tools to help you heal the wounds of the past and experience your full potential—both as an individual and as an intimate partner. Reach out when you’re ready to begin your journey back to wholeness. 💛

This Halloween, unmask your true self.

10/07/2025

🌿 Tuesday Tip for Couples!

You don’t need a weekend getaway to reconnect — just a few intentional minutes together. 💬

Pick a random card from your Connect - Communicate - Create Card Deck and see where the conversation takes you.

You might be surprised how much you learn about each other — even after years together!

✨ Small moments. Big connection.

💗 Get your deck today and make every Tuesday a “tune-in” day.

https://www.connect-communicate-create.com/

10/01/2025

🍁💑 New Month, New Intentions 💑🍁

October is here, a perfect time to reset as a couple. Instead of only setting personal goals, try setting a relationship intention together.

✨ Examples:
• More laughter in our home
• Weekly device-free dinners
• Slowing down for hugs and check-ins

Even small commitments can create big shifts.

💭 What intention will you and your partner set for October? If you’d like support creating meaningful rituals for your relationship, send me a message—I’d love to help you get started this fall.

09/23/2025

The American Psychological Association is deeply concerned about the Administration’s recent announcement on autism.

Promoting unsupported scientific theories risks fueling stigma, undermines public trust and distracts from real scientific progress.

09/23/2025

✨ NEW PODCAST EPISODE ✨

I’m so excited to share that I’m featured on The Trouble with S*x Podcast! 🎙️

Is anxiety hurting your connection and libido? 🤔 In this episode, Dr. Tammy Nelson talks with me and fellow therapist Evie Shafner, LMFT, about how reactivity can impact relationships—and what you can do to create more intimacy and ease with your partner.

Tune in here: thetroublewithsex.com/podcast

09/22/2025

🍂✨ Hello Fall ✨🍂

The first day of fall reminds us of the beauty in change. Just as the seasons shift, relationships also move through different cycles.

This is the perfect time to slow down, savor the cozy moments, and nurture connection with your partner. Try a simple ritual together: take a walk, sip something warm, or share what you’re most looking forward to this season.

Love, like fall, is richer when we’re fully present. 🍁

🍂 Make this season your own cozy ritual with the Connect Communicate Create Card Deck—a gentle way to spark emotional closeness, play, and intimacy. Grab yours now and create memories you’ll cherish together. ➡️ https://www.connect-communicate-create.com/

09/20/2025

🌪 Conflict is not the enemy. It’s often just the alarm bell. 🔔

"Conflict is intrinsic to all relationships. The presence of bickering or disagreements doesn’t mean the relationship isn’t good, or that it isn’t worth it, often it’s an alarm. Your relationship needs attention. Sometimes the best fight you can have is the fight for each other." — Esther Perel

💬 Let this be your reminder:

Disagreements don’t always signal the end — they can signal a beginning. A chance to reconnect, recalibrate, and recommit. ❤️

09/11/2025

✨ Today, we pause to remember the lives lost and the families forever changed on September 11, 2001.

Days like this remind us of the fragility of life and the importance of holding close the people we love most. Take a moment to reach for your partner’s hand, share a kind word, or simply be present together. Connection and love are the anchors that carry us through times of grief and uncertainty.

🕊️ May we honor this day by choosing compassion, presence, and gratitude for one another.

09/10/2025

✨ Have you ever wished you could pause the world for a weekend and truly reconnect with your partner?

While nothing compares to the depth of a guided retreat, you don’t have to leave home to create moments of deep connection. With a little intention, you can design your own “mini-retreat” right where you are. 🕯️💞

Think:
🗓️ Clear your calendar and treat the time as sacred
🎶 Create a cozy, nourishing atmosphere
🥘 Cook or share a special meal
📵 Put away devices and be fully present
💬 Try simple practices like mirroring, appreciation exchanges, or dreaming about your future together

If you have my Connect–Communicate–Create card deck, weave it into your retreat! The prompts spark touch, conversation, and activities that can make your time together unforgettable.

And… I’m also exploring the idea of hosting a transformational couples retreat in Normandy, France next summer. 🇫🇷✨ Interested? Click here to let me know 👉 https://forms.gle/VmsV7gJLSuYkB54Z6

Whether at home or abroad, the heart of a retreat is about carving out intentional time to nurture your bond. 💕

09/03/2025

🧡 September is Su***de Awareness Month. 🧡

It’s a reminder to notice the signs, stay connected, and take action when someone we care about may be struggling.

The American Foundation for Su***de Prevention highlights three important areas to observe: Health, Environment, and History. Spotting shifts—like persistent hopelessness, withdrawal, or talk of feeling trapped—can be life-saving.

Read more in my article: https://www.mkcocharo.com/how-can-you-tell-if-your-loved-one-might-be-at-risk-for-su***de/

If you or someone you know is in crisis in the U.S., please call or text 988 or visit 988Lifeline.org for immediate support.

Together, we hold space, offer hope, and share strength. You matter.

***deAwarenessMonth ***dePrevention

While we cannot really predict a su***de attempt, there are sometimes factors and signs to look for.

09/01/2025

Happy Labor Day! 🌟

Today we celebrate not only the work we do in our careers, but also the labor of love that keeps relationships strong. Take a moment to rest, recharge, and appreciate the effort you and your partner put into showing up for each other every day. 💕