I'm Mark Ryan, a BACP Accredited Psychotherapist and NCPS Accredited Relationship Therapist working with couples, individuals, and polycules across London. This is where I write about the things that come up most often in the room. Jealousy. Coming out to a partner. Separation. Sex and intimacy. The ordinary arguments that usually aren't about what they first appear to be about.

Some of what's here is written for couples working through something together. Some of it is for one person trying to make sense of their own experience before bringing a partner into it. All of it is grounded in research and real clinical practice, not generic advice dressed up as insight.

Below, everything is grouped by topic if you're looking for something specific, or simply scroll through what's most recent. And if something here resonates, or you'd like support with what you're going through, I offer a free 30-minute consultation, in person in London or by video.

Arrange a free 30 Minute Consultation
Repair After a Fight: A Step-by-Step Guide to Rebuilding Safety and Trust
Couples therapy London, Relationship therapy London, Communication and conflict, LGBT+ Therapy Mark Ryan Couples therapy London, Relationship therapy London, Communication and conflict, LGBT+ Therapy Mark Ryan

Repair After a Fight: A Step-by-Step Guide to Rebuilding Safety and Trust

Conflict is inevitable in close relationships — but disconnection doesn’t have to be. This practical, step-by-step guide explores how couples can repair after a fight, rebuild emotional safety, and restore trust through intentional communication and empathy. Learn why repair matters more than being right, and how therapy can provide powerful tools to break negative cycles and strengthen long-term connection.

Read More
Surviving Christmas Without Falling Out: How Couples Can Navigate Conflict During the Holidays
Couples therapy London, Relationship therapy London, LGBT+ Therapy, Communication and conflict Mark Ryan Couples therapy London, Relationship therapy London, LGBT+ Therapy, Communication and conflict Mark Ryan

Surviving Christmas Without Falling Out: How Couples Can Navigate Conflict During the Holidays

Christmas can place unexpected strain on even the strongest relationships. Heightened expectations, family pressures, and emotional fatigue often mean conflict feels closer to the surface. This article explores why tensions rise at this time of year, how couples can navigate disagreements more gently, and when relationship therapy might help.

Read More
The Four Communication Styles That Harm Relationships: Gottman's Communication Patterns and How to Change Them
Couples therapy London, Relationship therapy London, Communication and conflict Mark Ryan Couples therapy London, Relationship therapy London, Communication and conflict Mark Ryan

The Four Communication Styles That Harm Relationships: Gottman's Communication Patterns and How to Change Them

Criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling. A London couples therapist explains the four communication patterns Gottman's research links to relationship breakdown, and the antidotes that actually work.

Read More