Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Online Careers in Counseling, Coaching and Advising

Careers in Online Life Coaching, Counseling, Pastoral Counseling and Life Advisors
Dr. Rev. Reece W. Manley, DD, M.Ed.,MPM 

Did you know people spend more than twice as much money on “non-standard” therapy than they do on psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and ALL other state licensed helping professionals put together?  Think of that, TWICE as much.  And, online the counseling industry is serving the public more and more frequently.

Why do people prefer to receive help online than in person?  First of all, it’s more convenient.  There is no drive or bus schedule to worry with.  Secondly, there are more “off hour” appointments available such as Saturdays or in the evening.  Also, people prefer online therapists because of the added confidentiality.  No one knows when you meet with your therapist online or over the phone but they sure know it when you drive up to the office with your car.  People don’t like to be embarrassed by being seen by friends going into a psychiatrist or psychologist office.

As an online life coach, life advisor, pastoral counselor, you will find more clients more quickly than you would if you tried to start a life coaching center in an office.  You would still have the same problems state “licensed” helping professionals have – no one wants to be seen as needing help.   But, online, people can be exactly who they are and can use any name or life situation and know they are not going to be judged.
But hold on.  You need two things before you can hang out a “counselor” sign on the Internet.  

First, you do need some training.  Just because you like people, doesn’t mean you’ll be automatically successful as a therapist.  Secondly, you’ll need the right certification or registration to provide advice and counsel within your state.  These may be quite strict, but, fortunately there are ways around this, so don’t be discouraged.

Let’s talk about education first.  The Certified Spirit Thinking Facilitator Academy was recently accredited by the APPCA (one of America’s oldest accrediting organizations).  Spirit Thinking is a great thing to learn because you are exposed to a wide style of counseling but it focuses on the most effective counseling method ever used, according to Texas Research and Investment, a Dallas consumer research firm.

The CSTF Academy is also very inexpensive compared to other online programs.  A student’s complete training including coursework, textbooks, Certificate and even business cards all are provided for one low price.  While AIHT or COMTP, who are not accredited by APPCA or other groups, cost begin $2,499.00 all the way up to $12,500.00.  CSTF Academy costs only $395.00 and can be completed by most students In less than two weeks.  Plus, you may qualify for $200 in financial assistance!

After education, comes your right to practice as a counselor.  Here you want to be very careful as “life coaching and life advisory” are beginning to regulated by the States.  But, the U.S. Constitution guarantees you the right to practice as a Pastoral Counselor.  That’s right as a minister you are guaranteed the RIGHT to provide counseling services.  Maybe you’ve never thought of yourself as particularly spiritual person.  Or, maybe you don’t have a sense of a loving, empowering God.  You can find out how much your Creator loves you and wants you to work for the good of your life during your pastoral training.  I recommend Many Paths Ministry.  They are a challenging program but very reasonable in their price and you will feel proud of earning the ordination.  However, if you are in a hurry, you will find places who will ordain you on the Internet for almost nothing and almost immediately.  But, patience is a virtue.

If you enjoy meeting people, helping people save their problems and often have your own friends and family members, why not make it your life’s work.  The need is great, will you answer the call?
                                                 
Resources:
Certified Spirit Thinking Facilitator Academy

Many Paths Ministry

American Professional Pastoral Counseling Association (APPCA)

Sunday, March 28, 2010

Ask Dr. Reece - The Love Boat

Dear Dr. Reece,
I'm going on a cruise with a guy I've been dating for only two weeks.  How's it going to go?  How am I supposed to act?  Do I check out other options aboard?
SS Confused



Dear SS Confused,


Ah, the open seas. Sunshine. Cocktails.  Pools with tanned bodies lying about.  I'm jealous.


The main thing to do BEFORE the cruise is to have an open and frank discussion about these issues with your date before the cruise.  There will be plenty of opportunities for romance, but you need to know if that is supposed to be given to just the person you're going with or is it really just a date cruise, where no commitment is expected?


If you both decide it's "just a date", one of you is lying.  A cruise is a big deal.  A week with another person in the same cabin is a big deal.  There is just no way to get around the envy and jealously that will explode if you are not 100% completely honest with the ground rules.  


Be specific and be sure to cover...

  • Does the other person expect you to be with them 24/7? Do you want to be?
  • Do you have "date days" and "play days"?  What are they?  What are the limits?
  • What about sleeping together?  Yes, no or multiple choice?



The more honesty you show, the more fun you will have.  If one or the other is paying the entire way, then these questions go out the door.  You can be assured that, despite what is said, the one paying expects a monogamous experience aboard ship.  If you don't feel the same way, pass on the trip.  Or, offer to pay your half.


Good luck.  If it doesn't work out, I'm available for cruising anytime!


Best,
Dr. Reece


Ask Dr. Reece is a service of http://gaylifecoach.com and is not to be taken as a substitute for counseling.  If you would like to seek out a fun, forward, fantastic therapist, Dr. Manley is available at http://www,gaylifecoach.info.

Sunday, March 21, 2010

Ask Dr. Reece - Lost My Job, What Now?

Hi Dr. Reece,
It finally happened to me.  I lost my job.  After 10 years as an attorney I found myself now unemployed.  How do you get through the shock?
Thanks,
Outofit

Dear Outofit,


Yes, it's happening all around.  And, you've done well to identify what you are feeling - shock.  The first sensation can be overwhelming and it can really throw you off your game.  Here's a few tips to work through the not working right now blues.

  • One, give yourself a little time off.  If you can afford 3 or 30 days without having to think about your work life, take the time.
  • Two, what else is going on in your life.  Take some time to enjoy the other roles you play in your life. Father, brother, son, friend.  Treat these as a job for a brief time.  It will reward you more than you know.
  • Take the vacation you've been putting off.  If you have a little cushion, get a way for a few days with someone special or just yourself.  Have breakfast in bed.  Party until dawn.  Do a few of the things you can't do when you have a job.
  • Use your calendar!  Mark the date that you will begin the process of looking for a job.  Don't overshoot it.  Don't worry about it either.  Just let it be a fact of life.
  • When you begin to look for a job, network, network, network.  Grab some free business cards at Vistaprint.com and get your name and number so it's easy to give out at a moment's notice.
  • Join associations you may not have bothered with in the past and see if new doors open.



You're already on your way to winning the battle of depression of being out of work.  You realize shock is going to be a part of it.  After that, you will have to grieve, etc.  Again, but these off until the date of the calendar says back to work.  You need a mental break between now and then.  Be good to yourself.  Whether it is one day or thirty, just be there for yourself and give yourself a little selfish time.


Blessings and good luck,
Dr. Reece

Dr. Reece Manley, DD, M.Ed.,MPM is America's favorite online professional pastoral counselor can be reached at http://www.talk1.net.

Saturday, March 20, 2010

Ask Dr. Reece - What's Wrong with Adult Sexting

Dear Dr. Reece,
My new boyfriend likes to send me little, um, pictures of his affection for me during the day.  It really bothers me and I don't want to hurt his feelings, but, I mean, enough of his penis already!
Jayco

Hey Jayco,


Adult sexting?  That's a new one, so I thought.  I gave a call over to a friend at gay.com and found out they even have a group for it over there.  Apparently, I'm quite the prude.  The simple fact of the matter is that it is a behavior you are uncomfortable with.  You've got to speak up and if you don't want to get those little gifts during the day.  Try to:

  • Assure him you are attracted to him and you prefer to keep it in the bedroom.
  • Find other things about him that you like or respect and talk those areas up.
  • Remind him that once it's on the net, it's always on the net.
  • If nothing else, blame it on the boss.  



Also, legally, the photographs could easily be construed as sexual harassment in today's litigious world.  That little peek at peter could land you in hot water.


Be careful or his hobby could cost you more than either of you expected.


Dr. Reece

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Ask Dr. Reece - Time Between Relationships

Dear Dr. Reece,
How long does the average person wait between relationships.  I've been out for one for a month and I'm thinking about jumping back in the pool.   Is the water fine?
Rick

Dear Rick,


Just a month?  Hold up there, Rick.  What all is going on that you are rushing back to dating to find love?  Did you know that can be a sign that you have some personal issues?  It can also mean you've really got you're shit straight, so how do you know?  Look for these warning signs.  See if any of the statements apply to you.



  • I feel more social when I'm dating.
  • I feel relief when I am dating someone.
  • I feel happy only when I'm dating someone.
  • I help people when I date them.
  • I feel like I matter only when I'm dating.



If any of the above match you, then you may want to take a break and think about working on YOU before you decide to work on YOU+.  Knowing our self-worth and learning to be independently happy are hard lessons to learn but lessons we need.  In order to realize you are a wonderful, lovable person takes interaction between you and you. 


Of course, you don't want to be a hermit and never go out, but go out to new situations, places and people.  Do something nice for yourself, especially if you would have previously spent the money or time on your other. And, wait until the following statements are true for yourself:



  • I am a loving and kind person.
  • I am worthy of good things in life.
  • I am okay just as I am.
  • I can take care of myself.



If you can do these statements, and mean them, well, you're a step closer to be ready for Mr. Right.


Good luck,
Dr. Reece


Ask Dr. Reece is brought to you by Reece W. Manley, DD, M.Ed., MPM, a spirituality expert and leading GLBT spirituality authority also provides gay life coaching.http://www.gaylifecoach.info 

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Ask Dr. Reece - Matters of Faith

Dear Dr. Reece,
I'm Catholic and gay.  My partner does not believe in anything right now and it bothers me when he makes fun of me for going to mass.  Any tips or comebacks to his prods and pokes?
R U Wright

Dear R U Wright (clever):


Matters of faith play close to the heart.  In a recent TRI survey of gay men and lesbian women, 91 percent reported the symptoms that represent Spiritual Abuse.  If you haven't heard of the concept of spiritual abuse, I just happen to have the right book for you.


Now, specifically to your problem.  No matter how many people support us, or don't support us, our Spirituality refers specifically to our relationship to our Creator.  I happen to believe that relationship is inherent to being a human being.  We are connected to that from which we came and which we go back to.  Organized religion very often exploits Spirituality for its own gain.  Old white men have been telling us what God does and does not think since ancient times.  However, God does not have to play by man's rules.  In other words, no one can separate you from God.  Nor, can they put conditions on the fact that God loves you.


If your current partner is making fun of you personal rituals here are some things you might say:

  • I'm not going to church for you but for me.  I need the experience to have a good week.
  • Why are you angry?  S/He's your God, too?
  • I feel hurt when you make fun of me trying to find my Spiritual path.
  • So, it's not important to you, it's important to me.
  • It's fine for me to be interested in something you aren't.
  • I'm doing this for me, not for you and not for us.
  • Come with me and see what you think.
  • Shut up and do the dishes while I'm gone!



You need to acknowledge that, again, your Spirituality is between you and your Creator.  How you explore that Spirituality is up to you.  It's not going away.  And, it might open doors.


Blessings,
Reece

Dr. Reece Manley is America's leading online pastoral counselor.  His clients range from the indigent to U.S. Senators.  He works with spiritual recovery, pastoral counseling and, his fave, glbt lifecoaching.  He can be found at http://www.talk1.net.

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Ask Dr. Reece - How to Fight Fair

Dear Dr. Reece,
I just got done with another screaming match with my boyfriend over a simple mistake in a date plan.  He always go from zero to full blow.  Got any tips?
J.J.

Dear J.J.,


Over the years I've developed Ten Tips to Fight Fair with Your Partner, you'll find more in my book Spirit Thinking, but here are the basics:


Tip One:  Set the field for discussion.  Anytime something comes up that needs to be discussed sat a time, place and cut off time to "discuss".  Remember, to cut off at the off time.


Tip Two:  Painful honesty.  Tell it just like you feel it and get it all out.  Holding back is just setting yourself up for more problems down the road. If you've got to write it down, that's fine.


Tip Three:  Be sure you are safe.  Sometimes loud talking can lead to physical violence.  If you're not sure, then, trust me, you're not safe.


Tip Four:  No fair bringing up things from the past the have been put to rest.


Tip Five:  Remember there is no such thing as "never" or "always".  There is "many times" and "often" but absolutes will get you no where.


Tip Six:  Try using the word "and" instead of the word "but" and see if that helps things.  Many people use the word "but" to say "now I'm going to tell you the truth".


Tip Seven:  Cool off if you need to do so before talking.  Take a day or two.  Be respectful of your partner.  If he or she needs a little space - that's okayl


Tip Eight:  Consider getting someone who is a neutral party.  A really neutral party.  They can help take a perspective you might not have been able to see before.


Tip Nine:  Restate. Restate. Restate.  Parrot what you are hearing your partner say and see if you are both seeing it the same way.  Chances are, there is some focus on the wrong things.


Tip Ten:  If you're not done at cutoff time, then it's time to put it up and back on the shelf until the next day.  Do not go to bed angry.  If you have to sleep in the front room, then you haven't really but it to bed.


Hope these help,.


Blessings,
Dr.Reece

Ask Dr. Reece is brought to you by America's leading provider of online pastoral counseling and GLBT coaching.  If you need help, he's at http://www.gaylifecoach.info.

Sunday, March 14, 2010

Ask Dr. Reece - I Hate His Pussy....Cat

Dear Dr. Reece,
I am in a new relationship which is going good except for the fact that he has a cat.  I'm allergic to cats and really start sneezing and wheezing around it.  What should I do?
Sneezing in Colorado

Dear Sneezing,


Ah, yes, the inevitable pussy problem.  Or, puppy problem.  The fact is there is probably not much you can do if you are newer in this person's life than their pets.  Our pets, in today's America, are often playing the role of adoptive children.  We've even learned to rely on them as "Emotional Support Animals".  And, as much as he may have the hotties for you, early in the relationship the kitty is going to win.  That is as it should be.


I've often thought that on dating profiles there should always be a place for cat owner/dog owner/etc.  The only dating profile I have online (yes, I'm one of the masses of lonely hearts club, too) specifically lists I have an English Bulldog and if you can't get along with dogs, don't bother contacting me.


Something has happened in the last generation.  In a 1969 survey, animals were kept as pets for the purpose of "providing protection or mousing" and in 2009, animals were kept for the purpose of "companionship" as the main reasons.  Somewhere in that 40 year stretch our pets went from being serviceable to being a part of our emotional lives to the point they equal family and friends.


So, what happened?  We've gotten so busy in our lives that scheduling time to be social and neighborly, we want social support on our schedule, when it's convenient.  Also, as GLBT people, we aren't engaging in enough "generativity" or giving back to the generations behind us by contributing offspring or mentorship.  Enter in our dogs and cats and you suddenly have little emotional outlets that are at your beck and call.  Not on their schedule, but on ours.  Is there anything wrong with that?  Nope, not really.  The adjustment has been so complete that the friendships are as genuine as they can be. 


Here are a few tips to try to get in good with the kitty, if you really want to try it.  I don't really advise it though, because if you find someone with a pet, you are pretty much going to have to accept the person with the pet.  But do explore:

  • Are your allergies real or imagined.  Many of us manifest allergies to keep us isolated.
  • Could you be a cat lover/dog lover and not know it.  Spend some time with the pet.
  • Communicate your fears about the relationship and the pet.
  • Spend time at your place and see how much the relationship is gong to matter.  You may be able to win a man alone from a pussy cat.  Lord knows I've done it before, minus the cat part.

Agree to disagree and then move on to the next dating opportunity,


Good luck with the tissues.  


Best,
Dr. Reece

Dr. Reece W. Manley is America's leading online GLBT professional pastoral counselor.  He is available to his clients via Skype, phone and chat and offers the only $15 therapE available at http://www.gaylifecoach.info.

Ask Dr. Reece - Romance Failed

Dear Dr. Reece,


I need romance, damn it.  I tried to set up a perfect dinner, candles - the whole bit.  Then, I'm ignored.  What is the point?  Is romance pointless and dead in gay relationships?


Ignored Damsel


Dear Ignored Damsel:


Ah, romance, sweet music to our ears!  Isn't it? Don't most of us want romance?  In a TRI poll, "I wish my partner were more romantic" was chosen by 73% of respondents.  So, you aren't alone.  You're in good company.


Romance usually fails because, well, it takes two.  And, two takes coordination.  What might be your perfect day may not be your other's perfect date.  Try these simple ideas:

  • Schedule a date.  Make sure both are available.
  • Show romance first.  Send some flowers or pack a note in his briefcase.
  • Be patient and introduce small steps toward romance.
  • Have an "off hour" where no talk about anything but how wonderful each of you are is allowed.  Try once a month and move toward one a week.
  • Describe your ideas of romance to your partner.  If it's not 100% compatible, then accept that and move toward common ground.

You'll find romance because almost all of us like to be "woo-ed",  but you're partner probably isn't psychic.  Give them a little information and THEN let it be a surprise.


Let us know hows it goes!


Good luck,
Dr. Reece


Dr. Reece Manley, DD, M.Ed., MPM, is America's leading provider of online GLBT pastoral counseling and personal coaching. he can be found at http://www.gaylifecoach.info where he features a $15 dollar counseling exchange The only one of it's kind in the world!

Saturday, March 13, 2010

Ask Dr. Reece - When to Do It? First, Second or 81st date?

Dear Dr. Reece,
I'm just starting to get back in the dating pool and I am in my late 30's.  I'd been with my Ex for 10 years and now she is gone.  I know I want to date again, but I don't know about physical intimacy.  I just don't feel ready but I know gals like to lollipop pretty soon!
Sheila

Dear Sheila:


We all have different needs as we enter dating.  Chances are very good that someone who has the same needs you have is facing the same dilemma.  The solution?  Communication.  Communication and a plan!


Try this little exercise.  Write yourself out the scene of your first intimate encounter with your dating partner.  Be detailed. Candles, mood lighting, soft music - whatever would be ideal for you.  Now, what feelings are you having about this scene with your dating partner?  Anxiety? It's too soon.  Fear?  Of what? Excitement? You go girl. Confusion.  Wait it out.


In addition, you might want to talk to someone who specializes in lesbian women's issues.  I recommend Coach Sappho.  Her real name is Barb Elgin and she is the best I know.


Good luck and keep it closed as long as you want!


Best wishes,
Dr. Reece

Friday, March 12, 2010

Ask Dr. Reece - Anger Early in Relationships

Dear Dr. Reece,
I just started dating a guy who is great - he's funny and romantic.  The only thing is he gets angry easy like in trafic (sic) or when talking to others on the phone.  He hasn't gotten mad at me about anything, but it's a little scary.
Withheld

Dear Withheld:
Anger is one of the things that should send warning signs and red flags to anyone.  The best approach is out and out honesty and see what happens.


Pick a public place, just out to dinner or lunch.  If he drinks, try to avoid alcohol.  It's best to be sober and focused in serious discussions.  


Explain to him you are enjoying getting to know him.  However, you've noticed something that makes you nervous.  Give him examples of the behavior and ask him straight out that you are concerned about the behavior.  Then give him the floor.


If he doesn't give you good reasons or if he doesn't articulate or acknowledge the anger, you may want to pass on the relationship.  People with anger issues can quickly become people with physical violence.  If he doesn't offer it, ask him about physical violence and anger.


The main reason you need to do is take good care of yourself.  If you ever become involved with a person who does not talk about their anger you are running a risk of making yourself a target of anger.  Anger can become violence.  And, you certainly don't want to go there.


So, public place, direct concerns and examples and see how the answers "feel" to you.


Good luck!
Dr. Reece


Ask Dr Reece can be found on Queerbook or by writing Reece@Manley.net.

Dr. Reece W. Manley, DD, M.Ed., MPM, is a professional pastoral counselor, author and speaker about glbt spirituality and progressive glbt Christianity.  He is also a life coach, therapist and coming out expert.  He can be reached at http://www.gaylifecoach.info.

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Ask Dr. Reece - Coming Out to Nephews

Dear Dr. Reece,
My nephews are about to be teenagers.  I'm wondering how to come out to them.  They already use "that's so gay", even though my brother is quick to correct them.  How do I tell them?  What will it mean to them?
Calo

Dear Calo,


First off, great name!


Coming out to your nephews is going to be an incredibly challenging experience, especially if you and they are close.  Get ready for a bumpy ride.  But, it's going to be worth it and, in the end, strengthen your bond.


You mention your brother and he and his wife are going to have to be on board with when and how you are going to come out.  Some choose to make it a natural progression.  Some have a sit down and talk it out time.  You need to ask your brother which way he wants to handle it.  If his first reaction is "Oh hell no" you will need to give him some time.  But, he will come around, it sounds like, to recognizing how important this is.


With kiddos, it's best NOT to go for the shock value. Don't show up with your boyfriend and start making out in front of the kids.l  DO ask your special other out to family events and include him (or her) slowly, enfolding into the normalcy of the family.


You need to take very good care of yourself because you will be very vulnerable to how your nephews respond.  You may get a "cool, now give me my turn on the game!" or you may get a "you're so gross!".  How you continue the coming out will be picked up in clues with the kids actions.


Unlike the adult world, where we are often indifferent to whether or not someone approves of us as being GLBT, this is family and it is very important to us.  If I were you, I'd seek out someone like me who specializes in coming out in their therapy style or set of life coaching skills.  Then take the details of your plans for coming out to your nephs up with your brother.  Once you and he are on the same page, carry it out.  But don't back down until you get through. The relationship is just to precious.


Love and light,


Dr. Reece


Dr. Reece W Manley, DD, M.Ed., MPM is a registered and licensed professional pastoral counselor reaching clients around the globe via Skype, phone and email.  He may be reached at http://www.gaylifecoach.info .  If you have a question please use the Ask Dr. Reece form below or email to reece@manley.net

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Ask Dr. Reece - Is quitting smoking THAT important?

This column is for users of www.queerbook.com!  Please join us if you enjoy the column!


Dear Dr. Reece:


Is quitting smoking the end all, be all of all things?  I mean, I do a lot of good things, can't I have one vice?


Kyle P.


Dear Kyle:


Quitting smoking, like any other behavior change, is only as important as you make it.  Is quitting smoking important?  Yes.  Is it the "end all be all", no.  At least not for me.  And, it doesn't seem to be the most important thing to you right now.  


Our behaviors have to be weighed in two ways.  How do they effect others?  And, how do they effect us?  We all have rights.  And with smoking you have to be very aware of the other guy's rights.  After all, second hand smoke is real and it is damaging.  Of course, you know all of this.


If your only "sin" is smoking, you are a much better man than I am!  I suggest you write out pros and cons, including the cons of hurting others, and make a decision.  Then either quit or get on with life until you want to quit.  Don't just sit there and waste away in guilt, that's just self-defeating and a bad waste of energy.


If and when you decide to stop, talk to your doctor and make a good plan with an excellent gift to yourself as you achieve the goal.  Would yous stop smoking for a new blender? Probably not.  How about a new car?  Yes, you would.


Good luck and God Bless,
Reece

Ask Dr. Reece is the advice column of Dr. Reece W. Manley, DD, M.Ed., MPM, a progressive Christian writer, speaker and GLBT advocate.  He can be reached at reece@manley.net or www.gaylifecoach.info.

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

ask Dr. Reece - Do Transgendered People Belong in the GLBT Community

Dear Dr. Reece,
Do you think people who are trans really belong in the the GLBT community?  I mean, aren't they straight now?
Withheld

Dear Withheld,
Yes I think people who are Transgendered are definitely a part of the gay community.  After all, they face the same marginalization as we all do as queer people.  They are not "normal" and are "deviant".  There are plenty of colors in the rainbow flag for all.

Also, I know we need to be able to continue to look for ways of inclusiveness and paths of compassion.  The more divisive  we are simply making it easier for the world to take away more of our rights.  The more we stand, out and proud, the more likely we are to finally be recognized as being worthy of the rights of all people.  Make no mistake, the GLBT community IS a minority group.  We have suffered through a history of discrimination and there are more and more hurdles to come.  If we don't band together, we are left out in the small  groups easily forgotten and dismissed by all of mainstream culture.

Yes, we differ.  But, inclusiveness and compassion should be hallmarks of how we behave toward all of the GLBTQ community.  They may just call us "gay" but in reality, we are all queer, we're here and we demand your head out of your rear!

Peace and blessings,
Dr. Reece W. Manley, DD, M.Ed., MPM

Monday, March 8, 2010

GLBT Getting Back into Dating - When to Date Again!

Dear Dr.Reece,
I've been split up with my ex of 3 years for 3 months now. When does someone get ready to date again?
Withheld

Dear Withheld,

It's a hard call isn't it? When to risk the heart again? There is no right answer. You have to grieve the relationship including all of the what-might-have-beens you had built up. You also need to come to the reality that, although they seemed one in a million, they really weren't all that
.
But, here is one thing you might think about. Are you just missing intimacy? Are you just missing friendship? One of the things we often do in our relationships is to isolate ourselves from other people we regularly see in favor of focusing on the special one we have in our lives. This means we receive less intimacy from our friends and family because we limit the time we can spend with friends and families.

You may want to consider making some new friends and reconnecting with old ones. Give the family a call and enjoy their unconditional love (if they have it to give). Find a good social group and join in. You may find getting some of your needs met by friends and family will help you strike a better balance when you do decide to date again.

Take good care of yourself. Be nice to yourself. You are worth being loved and cared about. If he or she didn't see that, well, then, that's their loss.

Hugs,
Dr. Reece

If you find you have an area in you life you need to speak to someone about. Dr. Reece W. Manley, DD, M.Ed., MPM is America's Leading online professional pastoral counselor and can be found at http://www.gaylifecoach.info