An image of two hexagon cards, one a collage with a hand against a window, and one reading: Condemned Isolation is the repeated experience of not being heard or seen that leaves one feeling shut out of community and possibility. It can cause deep shame and further disconnection. Condemned isolation differs from solitude where one can be alone and still feel connectedl.

Condemned Isolation

Why disconnection hurts, and connection heals At the Bloomington Center for Connection, one of the deepest sources of suffering we see is isolation. Isolation without a sense of possibility, called…

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Holding complexity and compassion

Holding complexity and compassion

Comparative suffering is an easy trap to fall into—especially when we care deeply about others. In a culture shaped by capitalism and individualism, many of us have learned that pain must be…

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Is CBT the best choice?

Is CBT the best choice?

Healing comes from integrating the thinking, the sensations, the experience, the emotions, the belonging, all held in a growth-fostering relationship.

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picture of muddy feet

Getting in the MUD

Growth-fostering relationships require a willingness to step into the unknown together. RCT provides tools and support to help couples lean into this messiness, understanding that vulnerability is a p…

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A colorful drawing of brains and arrows, representing neuroscience and therapy

Neuroscience and Therapy

Therapy isn’t about proving the validity of connection through science; it’s about creating growth-fostering relationships that honor our shared humanity. Neuroscience, when used thoughtfully, can…

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A picture of a child in a Hulk costume making claw hands

Love Needs Fighters

How To Keep Going On Monday evenings I’m lucky enough to get and talk with one of my best friends about whatever comes up. We record it, and sometimes it turns out to be something worth…

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A drawing of 6 people holding hands surrounding a heart

Rethinking Self-Care

Relational care isn’t just about individual relationships—it’s about creating a cultural shift. In a society that often prizes independence above all else, relational care values interdependence…

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An image of two playing card, one with text defining Relational-Cultural Theory's concept of One True Thing

One True Thing

One True Thing offers a way to navigate challenging conversations and disagreements without sacrificing integrity, shutting down, or lashing out.

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International Center for Growth in Connection

Gender Expansive RCT

Relational-Cultural Theory embraces trans and gender-expansive identities and implores others to commit to an expansive understanding of gender.

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a picture with a bunch of question marks

Essentially RCT

These essentialist beliefs not only oversimplify gender but create a social ladder where some are seen as ‘more correct’ or ‘normal’ than others, impacting how we connect with each other. RCT thrives …

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