The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy, togetherness, and magic. But for those who’ve experienced trauma, the holidays can feel like anything but. Whether due to the loss of a loved one, strained relationships, or a past event that reshaped your sense of safety, holiday traditions can feel overwhelming or even triggering. The good news? You have the power to create new traditions that reflect your needs, values, and healing journey. Let’s explore how.

Thanksgiving often comes wrapped in the pressure to celebrate togetherness, express gratitude, and enjoy festive meals. But if you have unresolved childhood trauma, the holiday can feel more like a storm of stress, anxiety, and old wounds. For many, it’s not the turkey or the pie that’s the problem—it’s the family dynamics, unspoken expectations, and the weight of the past.

One of the most empowering yet challenging aspects of healing from trauma is learning to set boundaries. For many who have experienced trauma, this concept can be daunting. However, it is crucial to understand that you are always allowed to change your mind and make decisions that best support your well-being.

Abuse in intimate relationships is a deeply distressing and complex issue that affects countless individuals worldwide. As a therapist specializing in trauma recovery, I see the impact that abusive relationships can have on a person's mental, emotional, and physical well-being. In this blog post, we’ll look at the various forms of abuse, the cyclical nature of abusive relationships, and the challenges individuals face in breaking free from such cycles.

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) is a condition that affects many individuals who have experienced prolonged trauma. Unlike PTSD, which often results from a single traumatic event, CPTSD is the result of repeated exposure to traumatic situations, such as long-term abuse or neglect. This can lead to deeply ingrained negative thought patterns that affect one's sense of self and overall mental health.

As Mother's Day approaches, many individuals are preparing to celebrate with flowers, brunches, and heartfelt gestures to honor the women who have nurtured and shaped their lives. However, it's essential to acknowledge that for some, this holiday can evoke complex emotions and challenges.

As a therapist specializing in trauma recovery, I often work with individuals who make the challenging decision to establish boundaries or seek space from their parents. This choice can stem from various factors, each contributing to a unique and complex set of emotions. Let's explore some common reasons why adults may choose this path and discuss the grief and guilt that accompanies such a decision.

In recent years, the term "narcissism" has become increasingly prevalent in discussions about personality traits and interpersonal dynamics. Narcissism, rooted in Greek mythology, refers to a personality disorder characterized by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a need for excessive admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. The rise of social media and a culture of self-promotion have greatly contributed to the visibility of narcissistic behaviors in society today.

As we approach the holiday season, a time traditionally associated with warmth, joy, and family gatherings, the reality for some individuals can be quite different. For those who don't get along with their family, the holidays can evoke a range of emotions, from anxiety to loneliness.

Setting boundaries in romantic relationships can often be a challenging task, as many individuals tend to question what’s “acceptable.” However, just because it’s a romantic relationship doesn’t mean you aren’t entitled to and deserving of boundaries.