Why do so many women become experts at understanding everyone but themselves? A Chicago therapist explores emotional labor, relationships, self-abandonment, boundaries, and what happens when women stop carrying everyone else’s emotions and begin listening to their own.

A thoughtful essay about modern Midwest men, emotional intimacy, masculinity, dating, and relationships. Jess Benge examines the complexities of today's men through the lens of a Chicago relationship therapist.

Why Date Night Isn't Working explores why simply spending more time together often isn't enough to strengthen a relationship. Drawing on relationship science and real-world therapy insights, Jess Benge explains how couples can move beyond routine date nights and create the kind of everyday connection that builds lasting intimacy, emotional safety, and desire.

Chicago is a city full of options. Windy City Singles often confuse possibility with fulfillment.

Why do so many successful couples feel disconnected despite spending time together? In this article, Chicago therapist Jess Benge explores how intimacy fades, why relationships drift, and three practical ways couples can reconnect through honesty, presence, and curiosity.