Changing old patterns
Self-awareness is one of the most powerful tools we have for healing, growth, and change. In my work as a trauma and addiction therapist, I always tell my clients that journalling is the second best healing tool after therapy. Writing allows us to slow down, make sense of our thoughts, and process emotions in a …
When people hear the word self-worth, they often think of it as a “nice-to-have” — something that makes you feel a little more confident. But the truth is, healthy self-worth is life-changing. It shapes the way you see yourself, how you relate to others, and the choices you feel able to make in life. For …
Continue reading “Why Self-Worth is Life-Changing (and How It Can Transform Your Life)”
When anxiety shows up, it can feel overwhelming. Many of us say things like “I am anxious” or “I’m just an anxious person.” But what if changing just a few words could help you feel calmer, more compassionate towards yourself, and less defined by anxiety? This idea comes from Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, a …
Continue reading “Why Saying “A Part of Me Feels Anxious” Can Be More Helpful Than “I Am Anxious””
Relationships have the power to heal, comfort, and inspire growth. But when they are shaped by unresolved trauma, they can also trap us in cycles of pain, confusion, and dependency. Many people confuse trauma bonds with love, believing that intensity and emotional highs and lows are proof of a “deep connection.” In reality, what may …
Continue reading “Trauma Bonds vs Healthy Bonds: How to Tell the Difference”
Relationships can bring us joy, support, and connection. But when we get caught in unhealthy patterns, they can also feel draining, confusing, and painful. One model that helps explain these dynamics is the Drama Triangle, a concept developed by Stephen Karpman in the 1960s. If you’ve ever felt stuck in repeated arguments, cycles of blame, …
Continue reading “Understanding the Drama Triangle: Breaking Free from Toxic Relationship Patterns”
“When I was a kid, I used to get hit all the time. In public places—restaurants, anywhere—if I spilled a glass of water or made a small mistake, my dad would grab my head and dig his knuckles into my forehead or slap me. I never understood it: why would a father feel so embarrassed …
Continue reading “How Our Childhood Experiences Shape Us as Adults”
Understanding the Silent Wounds and How Therapy Can Help Many people come to therapy carrying pain they can’t quite name. They might say things like: “I had a good childhood—no one hit me or abused me—but I still feel… empty.” “I don’t know how to ask for help.” “I feel numb most of the …
Continue reading “Healing from Childhood Emotional Neglect as an Adult”