hippie - i have not gone with her to therapy, but that's an excellent suggestion. i hadn't thought of that as an option, but i'd be happy to talk to my partner about that sometime. there are times where i think i'd really like to talk things out with her, and having a therapist can help facilitate that.

i also like that my partner and i talk a lot. we have very open communication, and she knows that sometimes i can get stressed and i am passive in general so it can be hard for me to speak up even when i know things aren't right. she mentioned to me that she wants to know how i feel too, and her therapist asks about how i am doing. the other day my partner said i had very good suggestions for her, i am glad to hear that i can help in some way.

window - thank you so much for your reply. i am so grateful to hear from your perspective, and your suggestions mean a lot to me. i am sorry to hear that you are struggling too. i will keep in mind what you have said, and i do think it will be helpful.
thanks again and take care!