Dr. Tammy Nelson

Dr. Tammy Nelson Speaking Topics

• The New Monogamy

  In today's evolving relationship landscape, traditional monogamy is being reimagined. Dr. Nelson explores how couples can create personalized relationship agreements that honor both connection and autonomy. This topic addresses the reality that modern relationships face unique challenges: longer lifespans, digital temptations, and changing social norms. She presents "The New Monogamy" as an ongoing conversation between partners about boundaries, desires, and expectations. Rather than assuming one-size-fits-all rules, couples learn to co-create agreements that reflect their values and needs. This includes discussions about emotional boundaries, sexual exclusivity, online relationships, and transparency. Dr. Nelson provides practical frameworks for these conversations, helping couples navigate jealousy, trust, and desire while building stronger partnerships. Her approach acknowledges that monogamy isn't static but evolves throughout a relationship's lifecycle.

• Sexual Desire & Intimacy

  Desire discrepancy is the top complaint in couples therapy. Dr. Nelson explores why passion fades and how to reignite it. She addresses the paradox of intimacy: how emotional closeness can dampen erotic desire. The topic covers responsive versus spontaneous desire, helping couples understand their unique arousal patterns. Dr. Nelson presents practical strategies for maintaining eroticism: scheduling sex, expanding sexual repertoires, and addressing performance pressure. She discusses medical factors affecting desire: hormones, medications, and health conditions. The presentation includes exercises for sensate focus, mindful sexuality, and fantasy exploration. Special attention is given to desire changes across life stages: parenthood, menopause, and aging. Dr. Nelson addresses technology's impact on intimacy and strategies for digital boundaries. Her approach balances acceptance of natural desire fluctuations with actionable interventions for improvement.

• Communication in Relationships

  Effective communication forms the foundation of healthy relationships. Dr. Nelson teaches practical skills for expressing needs, setting boundaries, and resolving conflicts. She introduces frameworks like "I" statements, active listening, and emotional validation. The topic addresses common communication pitfalls: criticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling. Dr. Nelson explores how attachment styles influence communication patterns and provides strategies for each type. She covers difficult conversations about sex, money, and family. The presentation includes role-playing exercises for conflict resolution and repair attempts. Special focus is given to non-verbal communication and creating emotional safety. Dr. Nelson addresses cultural differences in communication styles and gender patterns. She teaches couples to recognize their unique communication dances and interrupt negative cycles. The approach emphasizes curiosity over judgment and connection over being right.

• Modern Love

  Technology has revolutionized how we meet, connect, and maintain relationships. Dr. Nelson explores online dating psychology, app fatigue, and the paradox of choice. She addresses how social media impacts relationships: comparison culture, digital infidelity, and privacy boundaries. The topic covers sexting, online pornography, and virtual affairs. Dr. Nelson presents strategies for authentic online profiles and meaningful connections beyond swipe culture. She discusses pandemic-era dating changes: video dates, slower courtship, and intentional connection. The presentation addresses digital jealousy, phone addiction, and technoference in relationships. Special attention is given to generational differences in digital dating. Dr. Nelson explores how online communication affects emotional intimacy and sexual connection. She provides guidelines for healthy technology use in relationships and digital detox strategies. The approach acknowledges technology's benefits while addressing its relationship challenges

• Infidelity Recovery

  Infidelity devastates relationships, yet many couples want to rebuild. Dr. Nelson presents a roadmap for healing that goes beyond simple forgiveness. She addresses immediate crisis management: disclosure decisions, safety planning, and emotional stabilization. The topic explores different types of infidelity (emotional, sexual, digital) and their unique impacts. Dr. Nelson introduces her three-stage recovery model: crisis, understanding, and vision. She helps betrayed partners process trauma while supporting unfaithful partners in understanding their choices. The presentation covers rebuilding trust through transparency, managing triggers, and creating new relationship agreements. Special attention is given to sexual recovery after betrayal. Dr. Nelson's approach treats affairs as symptoms of underlying issues while maintaining accountability. She presents research on which couples successfully recover and what factors predict healing, offering hope without minimizing pain.