Introducing Your New Partner to Your Parents

family at dinner

Falling in love is an incredible experience. The hours of phone calls, completing each other’s sentences, and the butterflies when you're together create a perfect feeling. Life seems just right. As the holiday season approaches, there's often a heightened desire to share your special someone with your family for the first time.

However, before envisioning a future together, you face the task of introducing your new partner to your parents. Gulp (or you don't have to... that's a topic for another blog post).

Undeniably, introducing a new partner to parents can be nerve-wracking. What if they don’t like your new girlfriend? What if your boyfriend doesn’t like them?


Here are some suggestions for making that first meeting as smooth and peaceful as possible:

Get Them Primed:

Parents are more likely to give your new partner a chance if they know the relationship is serious. Share photos and stories about how you met, recent dates, etc. When parents see the importance of this person to you, they'll approach the meeting with an open mind and heart.

Draft Your Siblings:

If you have siblings, introduce your partner to them first. Keep it casual; there's no need to make it a big deal. Take your S.O. when you visit your brother to pick up golf clubs or ask your sister to join you for a quick diner stop. Your siblings' positive reactions can influence your parents.

Chill:

Ensure your new partner doesn’t feel like they're going for a job interview. If they sense your anxiety, it will affect their ability to be themselves. Stay relaxed, and they will feel at ease.


Remember, your parents love you and want what's best for you. While they might not warm up immediately, understand that their ultimate desire is for your happiness. So, take a deep breath, and enjoy the process. Reach out to us for more on relationship therapy.

About Kathryn Bowen MS, LCPC: Kathryn (Kittie) Bowen MS, LCPC, is a licensed therapist and founder and director of Bozeman Counseling Center. She is passionate about helping people get unstuck so that they can start thriving in all important areas of life. Counseling and Coaching is a second career for her. She started out in the corporate world, worked crazy hours, and had zero work-life balance. Eighteen years ago she made the decision to leave her executive position and pursue her love of human potential and personal development. After attending graduate school in Mental Health Counseling, at Montana State University, she established a private practice providing therapy to individuals and couples.
Kathryn Bowen

Kathryn (Kittie) Bowen, MS, LCPC, is the the founder and director of Bozeman Counseling Center. She is passionate about helping people get unstuck so that they can start thriving in all important areas of life. Eighteen years ago Kittie made the decision to leave her executive position and pursue her love of human potential and personal development. After attending graduate school in Mental Health Counseling, she established a private practice providing therapy to individuals and couples.

Education:

  • Undergraduate - BS in Business, Accounting, Western Washington University

  • Graduate - MS in Mental Health Counseling, Monana State University

License:

  • Montana BBH-LCPC-LIC-1579

https://www.bozemancounselingcenter.com/kathryn-bowen
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