The holidays can feel like a relationship stress test—more schedules, more family dynamics, more expectations, and less emotional bandwidth. In this special two-part series kickoff of Healthy Holiday Habits, Ryan sits down with Dr. Ernie Reilly (Founder of The Counseling Corner) and Michelle Buchanan, LMHC (couples and family specialist) to unpack why even strong couples feel strained this time of year—and what to do about it.

Together, they challenge common “holiday opinions” like chasing Hallmark-level perfection, keeping an always-open-door policy with family, or assuming a big argument is just “part of the season.” Instead, they point couples toward realistic expectations, healthy boundaries, and practical routines that build connection—like daily check-ins, weekly planning meetings, and small rituals of gratitude and affection. Michelle shares how many conflicts are predictable and perpetual, and how couples can prepare for them by identifying triggers and the “elixir” that brings them back together. Dr. Ernie adds a powerful reframe: the holidays don’t break good relationships—they reveal what needs attention.

If you want your season to feel less like survival mode and more like shared meaning, this episode offers simple, actionable habits you can start today—so you can stay connected, even when life gets loud.

In this episode of Real Life Counseling, hosts Ryan Simpson and Dr. Ernie Reilly, LCSW engage with a group of counseling interns from the University of Central Florida. They discuss their journeys into the field of counseling, the dynamics of conflict in relationships, and the importance of communication and intimacy. The conversation delves into common reasons couples seek counseling, the role of psychoeducation, and the significance of understanding attachment theory. The interns share insights on forgiveness, debunk myths about relationships, and emphasize the ongoing work required to maintain healthy partnerships. This episode highlights the fresh perspectives of the next generation of therapists and their commitment to helping others navigate life's challenges.