The Shocking Truth About Dating Red Flags – How to Break Toxic Cycles and Find Mr. Right with Dana Nygaard | relationships | mental health | Christian counselor | dating advice | Attachment styles | conservative and traditional

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In this episode, I sit down with Dana Nygaard, a licensed professional counselor, speaker, and relationship expert, to uncover the keys to dating with purpose and clarity. Dana shares transformative insights on breaking free from toxic patterns, identifying red flags, and cultivating secure, faith-centered relationships. Drawing from her extensive expertise and personal journey, Dana unpacks the psychological, spiritual, and practical tools needed to navigate dating with confidence. Whether you’re stuck in a cycle of choosing the wrong partners, grappling with attachment issues, or simply seeking a healthier approach to love, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable advice.

Dana also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her Be Smart Date Smart program, which blends cognitive-behavioral therapy, attachment theory, and Catholic spirituality to help women build meaningful, lasting relationships.

Key Takeaways:

1. Learn the Language of Red Flags – How to identify subtle signs of control, manipulation, and emotional unavailability in relationships.

2. Stop Confusing Intensity with Intimacy – Understand the difference between chaotic relationships and genuine connection, and how real intimacy grows over time.

3. Date with Clarity, Not Desperation – Discover how to shift your perspective from “Am I good enough for him?” to “Is he good enough for me?” and make decisions rooted in self-worth and faith.

If you’re ready to transform your dating life and build stronger relationships grounded in love and faith, this episode is for you.

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The content provided in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional mental health care, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your own licensed mental health provider or medical professional regarding your specific situation.

While I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, and my guests are also professional counselors, the discussions in this podcast are meant to offer general insights and should not be taken as personalized therapeutic advice. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship with me or any of my guests.

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or have thoughts of harming yourself or others, please contact a mental health professional, call 911, or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. You can also reach out to a crisis hotline, such as the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 in the United States, for immediate support.

Every individual’s journey is unique, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another. Please use discretion and seek appropriate care as needed.

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