Dear Lady. Ann:
My girlfriend and I have been dating for over a year now and I plan to spend the rest of my life with her. I know what I want for us but I am beginning to have concerns about her dedication to this relationship. Before me, she dated her ex for 8 years and he was abusive towards her. He would beat her, cheat on her and verbally abuse her. He treated her like trash throughout the 8 years and she kept going back to him.
I am her first relationship after the breakup, but I still see how affected she is by the abuse. She is very insecure and suspects my every move. I try to let her know I am not her ex. I treat her with respect and when we argue, I choose my words very carefully. I feel like I am doing so much to defend myself because of the sins of her ex. I really love her, and I want her to be happy, but the burden is becoming too much. I have suggested therapy, but she thinks she can handle it on her own. This is really affecting our relationship. What do I do?
– Unhappy
#DLATribe, how can he help his girlfriend trust him more? Counseling?