“Even in my heart I see

You’re not bein’ true to me

Deep within my soul I feel

Nothing’s like it used to be

Sometimes I wish I could turn back time

Impossible as it may seem

But I wish I could so bad, baby

Quit playin’ games with my heart

Quit playin’ games with my heart

Before you tear us apart (my heart)

Quit playin’ games with my heart

I should’ve known from the start

You know you got to stop (from my heart)

You’re tearing us apart (my heart)

Quit playin’ games with my heart”

If you grew up in the 90’s, then you know exactly who coined these lyrics, and made their way into our hearts via Discman. In 1997, Backstreet Boys put words to the pain of game-playing in dating relationships.

Even in 2018, those of us in the dating world still feel this pain and confusion.  Games like ghosting, delayed responses, dating limbo, acronyms on dating apps, and dating several people at the same time. These games are frustrating.

Have you also heard friends describe interactions that feel like games, however they are beneficial to the relationship? For example, allowing time between text responses to not appear too available, or the text response where you only offer limited availability to get together versus a fully cleared calendar.

If you are anything like me in the dating scene, and have experienced frustration or confusion by the hurtful games or the positive games, we have something for you! GROW Counseling is offering a unique program focused on encouraging individuals to date wholeheartedly. We want to help individuals understand the core components of healthy relationships, the way their individual traits are reflected in their relationships, and the techniques for applying core components and individual traits to the modern dating world. To learn more, please visit our website!

Kim DeRamus, LPC