Paging the Love Doctor: answers to your most probing questions about celeb relationship from Beverly Hills psychotherapist Bella Dishell.(informer)

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Q: Nicole Richie dramatically altered her lifestyle to be with Joel Madden. Are big sudden changes likely to stick?

LOVE DOCTOR: They can, but it's hard to transform your routine in a short period of time. It's possible that Nicole was ready to put her partying ways behind her ... and getting pregnant forced her hand. However, abrupt changes have a recoil period--brought on by job or family stress--in which people are tempted to revisit old patterns. At these times, support is crucial.

Q: Jessica Alba allegedly broke up Cash Warren over phone. Is it ever okay to avoid an in-person breakup?

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LOVE DOCTOR: Yes. Before parting ways, many couples have talked about their problems and the idea of splitting at length. Making a call can just put a period at the end of the sentence. Besides, seeing each other could lead to more pain, breakup sex, or a brief reconciliation. But in general, it's best to say good-bye face-to-face, as long as you don't think he'll get violent.

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