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Let's Talk Self-Worth & Confidence
By:
Amber Brooks
Amber Brooks,Editor-in-Chief
Amber Brooks is the Editor-in-Chief at DatingAdvice.com. When she was growing up, her family teased her for being "boy crazy," but she preferred to think of herself as a budding dating and relationship expert. As an English major at the University of Florida, Amber honed her communication skills to write clearly, knowledgeably, and passionately about a variety of subjects. Now with over 1,800 lifestyle articles to her name, Amber brings her tireless wit and relatable experiences to DatingAdvice.com. She has been quoted by the Washington Times, Cosmopolitan, The New York Post, and AskMen, among others.
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Editor:
Lillian Castro
Lillian Castro,Senior Editor
Lillian Guevara-Castro brings more than 30 years of journalism experience to ensure DatingAdvice articles have been edited for overall clarity, accuracy, and reader engagement. She has worked at The Atlanta Journal and Constitution, The Gwinnett Daily News, and The Gainesville Sun covering lifestyle topics.
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The following articles focus on bolstering self-esteem and self-care in dating. Dating is all about putting yourself out there, which can be scary, but you don't have to put on a suit of armor to feel secure while making new connections.
We are here to help you feel confident in yourself through the ups and downs of dating.
Our experts say confidence is one of the most attractive traits a person can have, especially in dating. Since sharing is caring and gatekeeping isn’t our motto, our experts have written tons of articles to show you exactly how to achieve it.
Our guides empower readers to build their self-worth, with insights from experienced matchmakers, dating coaches, and therapists. We offer advice to help readers overcome insecurity and tap into their true potential in and out of the dating world.
You’ll find articles that encourage personal growth, bold moves, self-care, and belief in one’s value, so you can date with the utmost confidence and speak to your truth. Tackle self-confidence issues head-on with these informational step-by-step resources. No shrinking, no second-guessing.
Dr. Frankie Bashan is a renowned relationship coach and dating expert. She is a licensed clinical psychologist with nearly two decades of experience working with couples and individuals and specialized training in the field of trauma. Dr. Frankie is the CEO & Founder of LittleGayBook.com, which focuses on personalized matchmaking for lesbians and bisexual women, and has successfully connected couples across the United States for the last 16 years. Dr. Frankie has appeared as a love expert on MTV's "Are You the One," and she's given a TED Talk on fluidity.
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Clients frequently come to me with questions about polyamory and ethical non-monogamy: how it works, whether it's right for them, how they should approach it, or how to navigate dating non-monogamous people.
Solo polyamory is often a novel concept for my clients, but one that I think is useful and rewarding to learn more about.
Whether you ultimately identify as solo poly or not, it's a great case...
Brian holds a doctorate degree in human sexuality from the Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexuality, a master’s degree in clinical social work from Western Michigan University, and is a Board Certified Diplomate & Sexologist through the American Board of Sexology. He has been working in the field for more than 33 years as a private practice psychotherapist and runs an international coaching business for gay men that focuses on dating, relationships, and sexuality, and also has experience teaching in higher education. He is a member of the National Association of Social Workers, Relationship Coaching Institute, The International Association of Coaches, and The American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists.
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Barring any significant trauma history, attachment wounds, or mental health challenges, many men have a fairly stable sense of self by the time they reach their 40s.
Now facing midlife, singles in their 40s characteristically have achieved a good, structured rhythm to their lives and are widely autonomous and independent with a sense of maturity.
Though the unexpected stressors and crises can...
Brian holds a doctorate degree in human sexuality from the Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexuality, a master’s degree in clinical social work from Western Michigan University, and is a Board Certified Diplomate & Sexologist through the American Board of Sexology. He has been working in the field for more than 33 years as a private practice psychotherapist and runs an international coaching business for gay men that focuses on dating, relationships, and sexuality, and also has experience teaching in higher education. He is a member of the National Association of Social Workers, Relationship Coaching Institute, The International Association of Coaches, and The American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists.
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Probably one of the top goals people set to improve their lives is committing to going to the gym to focus on losing weight or building the physique of their dreams. But what if we also focused on developing dating goals to boost the likelihood of meeting compatible partners and forming healthy relationships?
If this would appeal to that part of you that is craving a life makeover, this article will showcase four...
Amie Leadingham is a Master Certified Relationship Coach. Her mission is to empower singles to heal, build self-confidence, and find a loving, genuine connection through conscious dating. Amie has been recognized as one of LA’s Best Dating Coaches and has been featured in a variety of media outlets, including the CBS Network, ABC News, LA Times, People Magazine, Oprah Daily, Cosmopolitan, InStyle, and BRIDES. Visit her at www.AmieTheDatingCoach.com.
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I used to think it was enough to find a partner who was good on paper as long as we had chemistry. Boy, was I wrong.
I kept attracting people who had a great job and good looks, but when it came to emotionally supporting me? They failed miserably.
I remember one time, I was going through a rough patch in life, and just needed a hug and some understanding. When I reached out to my boyfriend at the...
Amber Brooks is the Editor-in-Chief at DatingAdvice.com. When she was growing up, her family teased her for being "boy crazy," but she preferred to think of herself as a budding dating and relationship expert. As an English major at the University of Florida, Amber honed her communication skills to write clearly, knowledgeably, and passionately about a variety of subjects. Now with over 1,800 lifestyle articles to her name, Amber brings her tireless wit and relatable experiences to DatingAdvice.com. She has been quoted by the Washington Times, Cosmopolitan, The New York Post, and AskMen, among others.
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As part of my job, I hear a lot of pitches about newly released or soon-to-be published books that have catchy titles or make big tantalizing promises like “Win Her Back in 7 Days & Lose 100lbs While You’re At It.”
The salesy, likely AI-generated summaries tend to blur together and say the same clichéd things.
But every once in a while, an author really hits the nail on the head and has an earnest...
Hunt Ethridge is an award-winning dating and relationship expert with 15+ years of experience helping singles and couples build meaningful connections. Founder of the International Dating Coach Association, he’s been featured in Men’s Health, CNN, and Fox News and named one of the “Top 10 Most Influential Dating Experts.” Hunt has coached thousands worldwide, blending science-based strategies with practical advice to boost confidence, improve communication, and create lasting relationships.
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What do women want? Whelp, that’s basically been running through guys’ minds for millennia, perhaps even tens of millennia.
While I probably won’t have the definitive answer in the next 1,000 words, I have been doing this long enough, with enough people, watching all the science and trends, to give you a pretty good answer.
Also, I’m married, so... proof of concept?
When I meet with my male clients, one of...
Amie Leadingham is a Master Certified Relationship Coach. Her mission is to empower singles to heal, build self-confidence, and find a loving, genuine connection through conscious dating. Amie has been recognized as one of LA’s Best Dating Coaches and has been featured in a variety of media outlets, including the CBS Network, ABC News, LA Times, People Magazine, Oprah Daily, Cosmopolitan, InStyle, and BRIDES. Visit her at www.AmieTheDatingCoach.com.
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Before becoming a dating coach, oh boy did I go through some dating struggles! I eventually found my happily ever after…but only after my heart had been stomped on a few times. At one point, I literally told my mom I would be single for the rest of my life.
Here’s what I learned: Anything of great value (like dating for love) will bring a lot of fear and anxiety. But our biggest struggles can actually become our...
Hunt Ethridge is an award-winning dating and relationship expert with 15+ years of experience helping singles and couples build meaningful connections. Founder of the International Dating Coach Association, he’s been featured in Men’s Health, CNN, and Fox News and named one of the “Top 10 Most Influential Dating Experts.” Hunt has coached thousands worldwide, blending science-based strategies with practical advice to boost confidence, improve communication, and create lasting relationships.
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Dating can be a whole lot of mixed messaging. Is it “metrosexual” or “lumbersexual?” Dad bod or gym bod? Act aloof like you don’t care or chase her for all she’s worth? How many questions should I ask? Should I smile at everything she says?
Of all the things that get confusing, one of the biggest is, well, “the one.” Sometimes it’s the belief that there’s a soul mate out there. Or that there is the “one...
Lynn Cadet is an experienced writer and research analyst specializing in relationship and consumer behavior trends. She leverages data-driven insights and comprehensive survey analysis to deliver evidence-based guidance for modern daters. With a strong foundation in research methodology and a commitment to accuracy, Lynn translates complex findings into practical advice, helping readers make informed decisions in their pursuit of meaningful connections. She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Florida.
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GLP-1s double as not only a weight loss drug but also a dating confidence booster.
Fifty-nine percent of surveyed GLP-1 users report changes in their dating lives since taking the drug, according to The State of Us: National Study on Modern Love & Dating in 2025, a survey conducted by DatingAdvice.com in partnership with the Kinsey Institute.
GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, Zepbound, and Wegovy have...
Amie Leadingham is a Master Certified Relationship Coach. Her mission is to empower singles to heal, build self-confidence, and find a loving, genuine connection through conscious dating. Amie has been recognized as one of LA’s Best Dating Coaches and has been featured in a variety of media outlets, including the CBS Network, ABC News, LA Times, People Magazine, Oprah Daily, Cosmopolitan, InStyle, and BRIDES. Visit her at www.AmieTheDatingCoach.com.
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I've come to realize that there are so many missed opportunities out there for singles, especially when it comes to all the single ladies. I know traditionally it has been thought that men always take the lead to ask a girl out and do the whole wining and dining.
But I don't recommend my clients wait around for that.
In this modern society, I believe it is perfectly fine for a woman to take control of her...
Known as America's Relationship Expert, Dr. Wendy Walsh is an award-winning television journalist, radio host & podcaster, and the author of three books on relationships and thousands of print and digital articles. More than 1.5 million people follow her sage advice on social media. She holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and teaches in the Psychology Department at California State University Channel Islands and has been the host of "The Dr. Wendy Walsh Show" on iHeart Radio's KFI AM 640 since 2015. Walsh is also a former Emmy-nominated co-host of "The Doctors," as well as former host of the nationally syndicated show "EXTRA." She was named a Time Magazine Person of the Year in 2017 after speaking out about harassment at a major news network.
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Oh, sweet love! So pure. So innocent. From romance novels to romantic comedies, love seems to be a cure-all.
Sometimes I wish love were actually about finding happiness and pleasure. Sadly, love is more likely to be about finding the familiar.
Depending on one’s childhood circumstances, that familiar feeling of love may be laced with pleasure, or it may be bound by a lot of pain.
What Science...
Amie Leadingham is a Master Certified Relationship Coach. Her mission is to empower singles to heal, build self-confidence, and find a loving, genuine connection through conscious dating. Amie has been recognized as one of LA’s Best Dating Coaches and has been featured in a variety of media outlets, including the CBS Network, ABC News, LA Times, People Magazine, Oprah Daily, Cosmopolitan, InStyle, and BRIDES. Visit her at www.AmieTheDatingCoach.com.
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Having been a dating coach for over a decade, I’ve come to realize that finding your person is a numbers game, and sometimes you have to weather the storms to get to the other side and find lasting love.
So many singles give up too quickly in fear of getting hurt and rejected. They miss such great opportunities to find a meaningful connection.
Trust me, I know one of the hardest parts of dating was...
Ashayla Blakely is an experienced storyteller who has been writing for DatingAdvice.com since 2021. She graduated with a bachelor's degree in Telecommunications from the University of Florida. She also earned her MFA in Film Production at Florida State University College of Motion Picture Arts. You can often catch her with a script in her hand, calling out the shots in her many directorial roles on set.
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Dating is a mixture of trial and error. While on a date, it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions. But understanding those emotions is key to moving forward on your dating journey.
A few years ago, my friend shared that she was feeling a sense of unease with her dates, and she couldn’t put it into words. Been there, done that! While the guys she was meeting were kind, sweet, and down to earth, there was still...
Known as America's Relationship Expert, Dr. Wendy Walsh is an award-winning television journalist, radio host & podcaster, and the author of three books on relationships and thousands of print and digital articles. More than 1.5 million people follow her sage advice on social media. She holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and teaches in the Psychology Department at California State University Channel Islands and has been the host of "The Dr. Wendy Walsh Show" on iHeart Radio's KFI AM 640 since 2015. Walsh is also a former Emmy-nominated co-host of "The Doctors," as well as former host of the nationally syndicated show "EXTRA." She was named a Time Magazine Person of the Year in 2017 after speaking out about harassment at a major news network.
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Are you tired of situationships? Sick of those undefined and unfulfilling series of sexy dates where a woman feels like she is waiting in the wings, hoping to win the title of “girlfriend”? The secret to eliminating them may just lie in a single word: the word NO.
But there’s a problem.
There is a scary feeling that creeps up the spine of many women when we are given the opportunity to say...
Amber Lee is the CEO and Co-Founder of Select Date Society. She has been a matchmaker and relationship expert since 1998. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business from Liberty University. Amber’s expertise has been featured in media outlets, including Forbes, Newsweek, The New York Post, The New York Times, among others.
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In my 27 years working as a professional matchmaker, I’ve watched as the dating landscape has changed with advancements in technology and societal shifts.
Daters have navigated how to use dating apps, texting etiquette, the #MeToo movement, dating during a pandemic, and changing views on gender roles. There is a lot of noise out there, so how do successful daters stay the course and build connections with...
Lynn Cadet is an experienced writer and research analyst specializing in relationship and consumer behavior trends. She leverages data-driven insights and comprehensive survey analysis to deliver evidence-based guidance for modern daters. With a strong foundation in research methodology and a commitment to accuracy, Lynn translates complex findings into practical advice, helping readers make informed decisions in their pursuit of meaningful connections. She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Florida.
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The Short Version: Do you constantly overanalyze texts or find yourself emotionally exhausted in your relationships? Anxious attachment patterns could be the source. Relationship expert and coach Melissa Josue speaks with us about anxious attachment patterns, how they can affect dating relationships, and tips for breaking the cycle.
There’s no better way to approach dating than with an open mind and...
Emma has been a professional writer for nearly a decade now. She has a degree in English and Creative Writing from Fredonia State University. Her background in satirical journalism and human interest content helps her approach the dating world with humor and heart. She has gotten her byline featured on Tasting Table, Boredom Therapy, Her Moments, and Eternally Sunny, among other media outlets.
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The Short Version: Newly-single mothers often need community support just as much as they need advice about divorce, finances, and parenting. Australian website Beanstalk Mums is as much an educational resource as it is a refuge for single mothers seeking empathy and emotional support.
When I think “divorce,” my mind goes right to the Banana Split Club in elementary school, which was a clever name for a...
Jordan holds a bachelor's degree in Writing from Western Connecticut State University and has been writing professionally for more than half a decade. She has served as a trusted voice for leading brands across various industries, from lifestyle to technology. Recently tying the knot herself, Jordan is passionate about the sociological influences of relationships and often finds herself deeply engaged in these types of conversations with her friends and partner. Now, she's excited to extend these dialogues to the realm of DatingAdvice.com.
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The Short Version: Dating coach Kimberly Hill specializes in helping men rebuild confidence and find meaningful relationships after divorce or long-term relationships. With years of experience and certifications in neurolinguistics and solution-focused coaching, Kimberly has helped more than 350 men overcome dating app fatigue, break old patterns, and develop a fresh, self-reflective approach to dating.
My...
Chloë Hylkema has covered hundreds of people, services, and ideas in the dating and lifestyle sphere, all explored through the lens of making dating enjoyable. She has earned her bachelor's degree in English from Emory University and worked on animal rights advocacy issues and research. Chloë is passionate about delivering readers the information and resources they need to forge conscious and self-realized connections. When she’s not writing, you can find her cooking a vegan feast or at the climbing gym.
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The Short Version: Want to learn how to date with grace, patience, and perseverance? Dr. Bonnie Eaker Weil talked us through the ups and downs of dating and gave her advice for enjoying every step of the journey, even when it gets complicated.
Nobody’s journey through dating and relationships is easy. Most of us live in a culture that’s saturated with content about relationships and couples, and most of it...
Emma has been a professional writer for nearly a decade now. She has a degree in English and Creative Writing from Fredonia State University. Her background in satirical journalism and human interest content helps her approach the dating world with humor and heart. She has gotten her byline featured on Tasting Table, Boredom Therapy, Her Moments, and Eternally Sunny, among other media outlets.
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The Short Version: At New Men Rising, men can confront their insecurities in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Founder Allegra Cramb is a certified sex coach who helps men overcome sexual roadblocks, confidence issues, and feelings of inadequacy.
You may have a preconceived idea of what male self-improvement looks like. If you’re like me, you pictured a rugged wilderness retreat where men chop down trees...
Ashayla Blakely is an experienced storyteller who has been writing for DatingAdvice.com since 2021. She graduated with a bachelor's degree in Telecommunications from the University of Florida. She also earned her MFA in Film Production at Florida State University College of Motion Picture Arts. You can often catch her with a script in her hand, calling out the shots in her many directorial roles on set.
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People choose to live a sober lifestyle for a variety of reasons. Sobriety can help individuals reach clarity and work on self-improvement without being hampered by addiction. The term “boysober” is a new trend where singles are redefining self-care and taking control of their dating life.
Boysober means choosing to not date boys and instead focusing on a celibate life of self-discovery.
It’s important now...
Hunt Ethridge is an award-winning dating and relationship expert with 15+ years of experience helping singles and couples build meaningful connections. Founder of the International Dating Coach Association, he’s been featured in Men’s Health, CNN, and Fox News and named one of the “Top 10 Most Influential Dating Experts.” Hunt has coached thousands worldwide, blending science-based strategies with practical advice to boost confidence, improve communication, and create lasting relationships.
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Sometimes it seems that what women are looking for can change on a dime.
One minute it’s Manic Pixie Dream Boy and the next it’s Lumbersexuals. They are supposedly eyeing the hedge fund bros while simultaneously fending off “Bucket Bunnies” and “Row Hoes” for the blue-collar line workers. It can be really confusing to know what women want.
And hey, let’s face it, if THAT code were cracked, life would be very...
Chloë Hylkema has covered hundreds of people, services, and ideas in the dating and lifestyle sphere, all explored through the lens of making dating enjoyable. She has earned her bachelor's degree in English from Emory University and worked on animal rights advocacy issues and research. Chloë is passionate about delivering readers the information and resources they need to forge conscious and self-realized connections. When she’s not writing, you can find her cooking a vegan feast or at the climbing gym.
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The Short Version: If dating has been no fun recently, I have good news: taking a break is going to be way more fun. We talked to dating coach Blaine Anderson, who specializes in helping men level up their dating game, about how investing in yourself is the first step in an expert dating strategy.
If you’ve ever been knee-deep in dating and said to yourself, “Isn’t this supposed to be fun?” — you’re...
Emma has been a professional writer for nearly a decade now. She has a degree in English and Creative Writing from Fredonia State University. Her background in satirical journalism and human interest content helps her approach the dating world with humor and heart. She has gotten her byline featured on Tasting Table, Boredom Therapy, Her Moments, and Eternally Sunny, among other media outlets.
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The Short Version: At Kindling Dating, dating coach Eimear Draper helps fan sparks of love into bright, roaring flames. As a straight-talking coach with a positive attitude, Eimear helps singles come to terms with their greatest dating fears and insecurities. She believes that clients should lead the way to their own happiness, with the dating coach acting as a helpful guide.
Having a chauffeur drive you...
Emma has been a professional writer for nearly a decade now. She has a degree in English and Creative Writing from Fredonia State University. Her background in satirical journalism and human interest content helps her approach the dating world with humor and heart. She has gotten her byline featured on Tasting Table, Boredom Therapy, Her Moments, and Eternally Sunny, among other media outlets.
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The Short Version: When you put your heart in a matchmaker’s hands, you need to know that they’ll treat it with respect. Matchmaker Alexandra Freeman’s holistic approach to matchmaking means she’s gentle but firm with her clients’ hearts. By encouraging self-reflection and realistic expectations, she’s not only preparing her clients for love, but helping them understand themselves better.
Sometimes, it awes me...
Chloë Hylkema has covered hundreds of people, services, and ideas in the dating and lifestyle sphere, all explored through the lens of making dating enjoyable. She has earned her bachelor's degree in English from Emory University and worked on animal rights advocacy issues and research. Chloë is passionate about delivering readers the information and resources they need to forge conscious and self-realized connections. When she’s not writing, you can find her cooking a vegan feast or at the climbing gym.
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The Short Version: Singlehood isn’t some kind of temporary state on the way to partnership– and we have to stop talking about it as if it were. A representative from Unmarried Equality filled us in on the platform and how it advocates for equal treatment of all people regardless of marital status.
I’m a firm believer that every person should be single at some point in their adult lives. I’ve been single for almost...
Chloë Hylkema has covered hundreds of people, services, and ideas in the dating and lifestyle sphere, all explored through the lens of making dating enjoyable. She has earned her bachelor's degree in English from Emory University and worked on animal rights advocacy issues and research. Chloë is passionate about delivering readers the information and resources they need to forge conscious and self-realized connections. When she’s not writing, you can find her cooking a vegan feast or at the climbing gym.
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The Short Version: Everywhere you go, you take yourself with you, and that includes relationships. We talked to Daniel Boscaljon, PhD, about how working through unhealed childhood traumas can lead you to meaningful relationships with yourself and others.
“Baggage” is probably my least favorite term in the dating world. Sure, it points to the reality that everybody has a complicated story. The experiences that...
Emma has been a professional writer for nearly a decade now. She has a degree in English and Creative Writing from Fredonia State University. Her background in satirical journalism and human interest content helps her approach the dating world with humor and heart. She has gotten her byline featured on Tasting Table, Boredom Therapy, Her Moments, and Eternally Sunny, among other media outlets.
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The Short Version: Sara Davison has been a divorce coach for over 15 years. As someone who endured the pain of divorce firsthand, Sara knows how important it is to reclaim your power in the wake of heartbreak. She helps newly divorced people form their breakup support team and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Even more unique is her role as coach for other divorce coaches. Her one-of-a-kind training program at the...
Emma has been a professional writer for nearly a decade now. She has a degree in English and Creative Writing from Fredonia State University. Her background in satirical journalism and human interest content helps her approach the dating world with humor and heart. She has gotten her byline featured on Tasting Table, Boredom Therapy, Her Moments, and Eternally Sunny, among other media outlets.
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The Short Version: Valentina Tudose, a relationship coach based in Hong Kong, has spent 10-plus years in the coaching industry helping women discover their unique paths to what she calls “extraordinary relationships.” Having a common goal with your partner and expressing your needs are just two ways to make an extraordinary relationship a reality. The real test is whether you can engage in the necessary introspection...
Chloë Hylkema has covered hundreds of people, services, and ideas in the dating and lifestyle sphere, all explored through the lens of making dating enjoyable. She has earned her bachelor's degree in English from Emory University and worked on animal rights advocacy issues and research. Chloë is passionate about delivering readers the information and resources they need to forge conscious and self-realized connections. When she’s not writing, you can find her cooking a vegan feast or at the climbing gym.
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The Short Version: If you just can’t seem to get it right in romance, it might be time to change your strategy. Matchmaker and dating expert Cat Cantrill talked to us about the importance of an emotionally prepared mindset and how working with a professional can transform singles’ experiences.
I have a friend who loves dating in a way I’ve never seen. She’s an unabashed romantic with a penchant for men who aren’t...
Amber Brooks is the Editor-in-Chief at DatingAdvice.com. When she was growing up, her family teased her for being "boy crazy," but she preferred to think of herself as a budding dating and relationship expert. As an English major at the University of Florida, Amber honed her communication skills to write clearly, knowledgeably, and passionately about a variety of subjects. Now with over 1,800 lifestyle articles to her name, Amber brings her tireless wit and relatable experiences to DatingAdvice.com. She has been quoted by the Washington Times, Cosmopolitan, The New York Post, and AskMen, among others.
