Changing old patterns
When I support clients in therapy, one of the most powerful approaches I use is inner child work. Many people who come to me with struggles around trauma, addiction, or codependency often feel stuck in old patterns that no longer serve them. To help untangle these patterns, I draw on Transactional Analysis (TA), a therapeutic …
Have you ever felt, deep down, that something is wrong with you—even if you can’t quite explain why? Maybe you blame yourself for things that weren’t your fault. Maybe you struggle to accept love or believe you deserve good things. Maybe no matter how hard you try, that nagging sense of “I’m bad” won’t go …
Why relationships matter in healing from addiction When we think about addiction, it’s often framed as an individual struggle — a battle of willpower or a personal failing. But the reality is far more complex. Addiction doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It’s deeply shaped by our nervous systems, our past experiences, and most importantly, our …
Continue reading “The Powerful Connection Between Addiction and Co-Regulation”
Shame is one of the most powerful—and often hidden—emotions that people face in addiction and recovery. It can keep us stuck in cycles of self-destructive behaviour, disconnected from ourselves and others. But understanding shame, and learning how to work through it, can be a crucial turning point in recovery. In this blog, I’ll explore what …
Continue reading “The Role of Shame in Addiction Recovery: How Understanding It Can Help You Heal”
When someone you love is struggling with addiction, trauma, or mental health issues, it’s natural to want to step in and fix it. You might try to offer solutions, give advice, or take control of the situation because you care so deeply. But here’s the difficult truth:You can’t do someone else’s recovery for them. Trying …
Continue reading “Why You Can’t ‘Fix’ Someone Else’s Recovery—And What You Can Do Instead”
Watching someone you care about struggle with addiction is incredibly painful. Whether it’s alcohol, drugs, gambling, or another compulsive behaviour, addiction affects not only the person experiencing it but everyone around them. If you’re wondering how to help without enabling or losing yourself in the process, you’re not alone. As a trauma therapist in …
Continue reading “Supporting a Loved One Through Addiction: 5 Do’s and Don’ts”
Addiction is a complex, multifaceted issue that impacts millions of individuals and families worldwide. While genetics, environment, trauma, and peer influence all play a role, one often under-discussed yet critical factor is parenting. The way a child is raised—the emotional tone of the household, the boundaries set (or not set), the way love is …
Continue reading “How Bad Parenting Can Contribute to Addiction: A Hard Look at Root Causes”
When we hear the word “addict,” we often picture someone in a dark alley with a needle in their arm. But the truth is, addiction comes in many forms—and most of us are hooked on something, whether it’s food, work, exercise, social media, shopping, or a person! At its core, addiction is about losing control. …