Psychology of Dating Podcast

What if the skills that create strong, lasting marriages are the very ones you should be using while you’re still dating? In this episode, I’m joined by certified Relational Life Therapist and Sex Therapy practitioner Monica Tanner to explore how “marriage skills” can transform the early stages of dating. Too often, dating is driven by chemistry, anxiety, or unspoken expectations. Monica shares ho...

In this powerful conversation, I’m joined by Anu Verma , UK-based trauma therapist and coach, who shares her lived experience of childhood sexual abuse, abusive relationships , and her journey of healing that inspired her work in trauma-informed care. We explore how trauma shapes the nervous system, the “not good enough” belief, and why many people find themselves drawn to unhealthy relationship p...

In this episode, I’m joined by Tim Molnar , US-based dating strategy coach, author, and former university lecturer, for a grounded and practical conversation about what it actually takes to date smarter — not harder. Tim brings a unique blend of academic research and real-world coaching experience , helping people move beyond vague dating intentions and into clear, actionable steps that create las...

Many people don’t struggle with dating because they don’t know what to do — they struggle because of the emotions that show up along the way. Fear, anxiety, rejection, uncertainty, longing, disappointment…  For many, dating becomes an ongoing attempt to avoid uncomfortable feelings rather than move toward meaningful connection. In this episode, I explore: Why fear of emotions keeps you stuck in un...

What If There’s No Wrong Answer? A New Way to Navigate Dating Choices As a Clinical Psychologist and dating coach, one of the most common things I see is clients wanting the “right” answer — who to date, what boundaries to set, what feelings are acceptable, and what steps to take next. But here’s the truth: giving prescriptive advice doesn’t build long-term confidence. In this episode, we explore...

Do you find yourself over-focusing on the other person—trying to keep them happy, overthinking decisions, or guessing what they want in the relationship?  In this episode, we explore the signs that your attention may have shifted too far toward the other person, how this pattern can affect connection and communication, and why it often shows up in early dating and relationships. You’ll also hear p...

Conflict is a normal part of any relationship — but when you’re trying to assert yourself and emotions rise, it’s easy to fall into patterns that make things harder instead of clearer.   In this episode: - learn three common mistakes people make when trying to communicate their needs during conflict , and why these patterns can lead to misunderstandings, defensiveness, or disconnect. - You’ll also...

In this episode of The Psychology of Dating Podcast , I’m joined by manifestation coach Isabella Rosenthal to explore the fascinating intersection between dating psychology and manifestation. Isabella breaks down the neuroscience behind manifestation , including how the Reticular Activating System (RAS) acts as the brain’s internal filter—highlighting the information we train it to notice. We disc...

Do you feel guilty taking time for yourself? You're not alone—and this internal conflict can have a big impact on your dating life.  In this episode, we explore why self-care isn’t selfish, but essential, especially when it comes to setting boundaries, maintaining emotional availability, and showing up with clarity in relationships. ✨ Dating Coaching Program – Now Enrolling Starts July 9. Le...

Can there be such a thing as too much dating?  In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked impact of overloading your dating life—how seeing too many people too quickly can lead to emotional burnout, decision fatigue, and even prematurely ending connections that had potential. I’ll break down how a high volume of dates can actually disconnect you from the emotional experience of dating, stop...

Before we focus on finding the right partner, it’s essential to ask—how strong is your relationship with yourself ? In this episode, we unpack what it truly means to build a relationship with yourself from a psychological perspective. In this episode: - Learn how self-awareness, self-respect, and internal safety lay the foundation for dating with confidence and clarity.  - How your inner world can...

Are you stuck in the same dating pattern—but not sure what exactly needs to change? Before you jump into solutions, take a step back: have you clearly defined the problem ? In this episode, we explore how identifying what’s truly within your control in dating can help you move forward with clarity and purpose. ✨ Dating Coaching Program – Now Enrolling Starts July 9. Learn more → nadineneukirch.co...

Should you keep seeing them—or call it quits? In this episode, we explore how to navigate early dating with clarity and confidence. You’ll learn: When to stay open and keep exploring a connection How to follow through with connections on dating apps and in person How to make decisions that align with your values—not just your anxiety ✨ Dating Coaching Program – Now Enrolling Starts July 9. Join h...

Why does dating feel so overwhelming when all you want is a healthy connection? In this episode, we explore how complex trauma can shape the way you approach dating and relationships—and what healing can look like. You’ll learn: Common ways complex trauma shows up in dating How your nervous system may confuse safety with danger Why emotional avoidance, over-functioning, or shutdowns aren't “b...

Not sure what to text back? Feeling anxious while waiting for a reply or wondering if you're coming on too strong? In this episode: How to pace texting without overextending Managing anxiety while waiting for replies When overthinking = avoiding real communication ✨ Dating Coaching Program – Now Open Starts July 9. Join here → nadineneukirch.com 🎁 Free Guide: Top 3 Mindset Shifts in Dating...

Meeting new people in dating can be anxiety provoking, frustrating, boring, confusing, and many other emotions. It is normal for the human brain to try and make sense of new people and made judgments and assumptions about them. This however, takes us away from being in the moment and can increase suffering and misinterpretation.  In this episode: - Learn about the mindfulness skill of 'Observ...

Are you in your midlife and contemplating dating? People often have many fears and barriers about dating as they grow older, with thoughts such as; "All the good people are taken", "I'm not attractive anymore", "The apps are only for younger people".  Most difficult thoughts however are not grounded in facts, but rather judgments and fears. In this episode you wi...

Do you find yourself hot and cold with use of the dating apps. You go on them for a few months and then feel disheartened and quit for another few months? Is you mindset one of defeat and hopelessness; " They don't work, they are too boring, it's impossible to get matches" In this episode: - Identify your mindset for use of dating apps and learn how to clarify what are facts vs...

Do you experience intense and overwhelming emotions where you become impulsive or feel out of control in dating? Or do you feel numb and disconnected from your emotions in dating? You may be experiencing emotion dysregulation. In DBT therapy there are skills to regulate emotions, feel more in control of your emotional experience and reduce unnecessary suffering. This episode explores the basics of...

Have you ever found yourself doubting your decisions in dating? Making one choice and then feeling guilt afterwards or criticising yourself? One part of you wants to go on a date and the other part of you fears rejection and wants to avoid the apps? In this episode: - Explore the impact of conflicting 'parts' of yourself in dating - Strategies to befriend these parts, understand their fe...

Conflict can be healthy and to be expected in a relationship. The important part of conflict is how we navigate it. In this episode: - Learn how can attachment fears can be triggered in a relationship  - Tips to settle your nervous system when in conflict - Tips to clarify your goals when resolving conflict FREE Guide on Top 3 Mindset Shifts in Dating: https://www.nadineneukirch.com REGISTRATION N...

Part of my dating coaching program involves running weekly groups. Each week participants ask dating questions and receive personalised coaching on areas they are unsure or stuck in for dating.  This episode answers 3 questions from the latest coaching group: - How long should you spend on the dating apps? - What is the best time to be messaging someone on the apps? - How many dates should you go...

When people are feeling stuck in dating they can experience an imbalance in their emotions, an increase in challenging emotions such as fear, sadness, anger, shame, and guilt. In Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) there is a skill to help people accumulate pleasant emotions called  'ABC PLEASE'. This episode explores the use of this skill in the context of dating.  FREE Guide on Top 3 M...

What does authentic dating actually mean? This episode looks at key aspects of authentic dating including aligning with your values and goals, honesty, embracing imperfections, and vulnerability.  REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR *** ONLINE DATING COACHING PROGRAM Feb 2025*** For more information or to register visit: https://www.nadineneukirch.com FREE Guide on Top 3 Mindset Shifts in Dating:  https://w...

If you are feeling stuck in dating, altering habits  can significantly increase satisfaction and confidence. However habits can be very hard to form. How can people change a behaviour or reframe their thinking in a way that lasts long term? This episode explores key tools to build new habits, including positive reinforcement, looking for skill deficits, expecting failures, and building from small...