Allison Arnekrans, a faculty member in the Central Michigan University Master of Arts in Counseling Program, shared advice on healthy relationships in a statement released on Mar. 26. Arnekrans is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 16 years of experience providing counseling to individuals, couples, families, and groups.
Arnekrans said that understanding what makes a relationship healthy is important for anyone seeking lasting partnerships. She emphasized that strong relationships are built on dependability and accountability rather than dominance or unrealistic expectations shaped by social media.
“Healthy partners take responsibility, apologize and don’t cast blame for problems,” Arnekrans said. She added that many people have an idealized view of relationships from social media but “most healthy relationships look pretty ordinary from the outside.” According to Arnekrans, strength in a relationship is shown through honest communication and consistent support: “Strength is staying engaged and working through it.” She also explained that both men and women generally want similar things such as respect, trust, appreciation, good communication, and emotional safety—though these needs may be expressed differently by each person.
Arnekrans advised looking at how partners handle challenges over time: “The more valuable clues show up when something goes wrong.” She encouraged individuals to ask themselves if they can be authentic within their relationship: “In a healthy relationship you don’t feel like you have to perform… A good relationship should feel like exhaling.” When disagreements occur, she said the healthiest couples know how to repair things without resorting to violence or avoidance.
Central Michigan University (CMU), where Arnekrans teaches, offers more than 200 academic programs across seven colleges including undergraduate, graduate, online courses and study abroad options according to the official website. CMU leads nationally in participation for Alternative Breaks programs as per the official website and has earned recognition as one of two Adobe Creative Campuses in Michigan as well as one of four Celonis Academic Centers of Excellence nationally according to the official website. The university focuses on delivering comprehensive education aimed at preparing students for successful careers and lifelong learning as per the official website. CMU ranks first in Michigan—and sixth in the Midwest—for highest earnings among females under 40 as noted on the official website, while extending its offerings beyond its base through online and study abroad programs according to the official website.
Arnekrans concluded her guidance by encouraging ongoing reflection within relationships: “Do I like who I am when I’m in this relationship?” she asked. If so—and if both partners continue growing together—she said it is usually a very good sign.