The state of relationships in America is on life-support, and desperately needs a heart transplant.

One of the most quoted statistics in modern times is that half of all marriages end in divorce, but that’s only half the story. According to the Forest Institute of Professional Psychology in Springfield, Missouri, divorce is the result of 50 percent of first marriages, 67 percent of second and 74 percent of third marriages.

Moreover, Match.com’s claim that one in five relationships today begins online, further muddies the waters. With dating profiles looking more like resumes on Monster.com, single parenting close to becoming more the rule than the exception and the crushing yoke of discouragement presented to the lovelorn by reality television shows, what’s a hopeless romantic to do?

With no fewer than 14 degrees and certifications between them — including two PhDs and three Master’s Degrees — and a thriving counseling practice, Drs. Chuck and Jo-Ann Bird are the most prepared and experienced experts in the field of relationships today. It also doesn’t hurt that they are also a married couple with a decade of wedded bliss to their credits. They don’t just talk the talk. They walk the walk, and they know where theory meets reality for those who are seeking a long-term, loving, passionate and committed relationship.

They are also open-minded enough to accept newer forms of non-traditional relationships such as open marriages and polyamorous relationships, and help those who choose those avenues to better navigate those sometime rocky roads.

Further, they are both certified sexologists, qualified and experienced to help people overcome psychologically based sexual disorders. Chuck is also a registered nurse who can recognize the difference between a psychological problem and a physical one. They understand that topic of sex in American lives with a split personality. We use sex in the mass media like water to sell everything from cars to beer to clothes and everything in between, yet many committed couples still have trouble talking openly about sex without feeling embarrassed or inhibited. They are understanding enough to help people out of the quicksand, but experienced enough to help people be honest and open about their sexual issues.

They are realists, but also optimists, and clarion voices who believe that love can conquer all as long as couples can be honest with both each other and themselves.

As the male component of the team, Chuck’s ability to relate to people is his key contribution. His calm demeanor and comforting presence makes him a unique voice in the media firmament. He doesn’t have to act understanding, because he truly is.

Jo-Ann is a woman who doesn’t mince words, but who can do so with tact and elegance. She can shoot from the hip and make you thankful for her taking the shot. As women still suffer through sometimes controlling and possessive relationships, Jo-Ann is a woman who believes that women need to be encouraged to speak their minds. Determined and forthright, she believes it’s time for women to stand up and be counted in their relationships and take an active role in their own romantic destinies.