Permanent Partners: Building Gay & Lesbian Relationships That Last

She doesn't just gloss over issues like other authors in this subject. She supports her discussions with examples by real cases she has handled, or when relevant she even includes some of her very own experiences with her partner. This book has helped me identify my own issues very accurately. Buy it and see!

"Today, more than ever before, gay and lesbian couples want long-lasting, fulfilling, happy relationships. But in order to accomplish this, the notion of 'partnership' itself must be radically reinvented. Gay men and lesbians must learn to imbue relationships with the same importance that their heterosexual counterparts do--in a society that still offers none of the same support. ¶ This book, written by a psychotherapist who specializes in working with lesbian and gay male couples, offers clear, compassionate advice and counseling on the internal and external problems faced by two men or two women as they create a life together. Warmly supportive, Dr. Betty Berzon draws on real-life examples from her professional practice and her own long-term partnership to help couples improve communication, 'fight fair,' resolve conflicts, and affirm both their love and their commitment in a relationship that works today, tomorrow, and forever."--© zebraz

This book was the one of the first out on gay relationships that addressed our issues as gays and lesbians written by an openly lesbian therapist herself. Dr. Berzon is clearly a pioneer in getting the word out there that we can have and deserve permanent partners. I use her book in the classes I teach at the University. This is a must have book!!

...The book is well-written, and organized in such a way that you don't have to read it from beginning to end: you can pick it up, look for a topic you're interested in (or having problems with at the time) and read it. I still have my copy of this book, and still reference it in my new relationship. It helps!

Dr. Berzon shares of her experiences both as a professional relationship counselor and as a lesbian, using fact-based scenarios to explore the common struggles, challenges, and temptations gays and lesbians must overcome when forging committed relationships. Topics include such basic relationship themes as communication skills and conflict resolution, and issues unique to gay & lesbian relationships-from "The Gay National Anthem: 'Why Don't We Just Break Up?'" to legal issues surrounding wills, mortgages, and adoption. As you read, be prepared to see yourself and your relationship in Berzon's stories. You'll finish this book with a renewed desire-and practical, effective know-how-to commit yourself to making your love last.