Race-based traumatic stress (RBTS) refers to the emotional and psychological distress caused by racism, discrimination, or other race-related experiences. Unlike overt physical harm, RBTS stems from the repeated, insidious effects of racial microaggressions, systemic injustice, and overt acts of racism. This stress can have lasting impacts, often paralleling symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Trauma has a way of shaping our lives in profound and often invisible ways. It can affect how we see ourselves, connect with others, and navigate the world. For those carrying the weight of unresolved trauma, therapy can be a transformative tool to reclaim a sense of safety, stability, and connection. Let’s explore what trauma is, how it impacts us, and the therapeutic approaches that can guide you on a path to healing.

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.

When it comes to healing from trauma, everyone’s journey is unique. Some individuals find comfort in the slow, steady pace of traditional weekly therapy sessions, while others may benefit from a more concentrated approach. This is where therapy intensives come into play. As a therapist specializing in trauma recovery, I have seen the profound impact that therapy intensives can have on individuals seeking to heal from deep-seated emotional wounds.

In every relationship, there are moments of disconnect, misunderstandings, and emotional pain. For couples, these moments can create distance, erode trust, and, over time, lead to significant relationship strain. This is especially true for couples where one or both partners have experienced trauma. Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) offers a powerful and effective approach to healing and strengthening relationships by addressing the underlying emotional dynamics that drive conflict and disconnection.

Grief is a profound and universal experience that touches everyone at some point in their lives. In this blog post, I will discuss what grief is, how it extends far beyond the death of a loved one, and why it is a healthy, normal response. I will also explain how to validate your grief and provide some suggestions for supporting yourself and others during the grieving process.

Self-blame is a common, yet often overlooked, aspect in relationships. When difficulties arise, one partner will often shoulder the responsibility, while the other remains mostly unaccountable. As this cycle perpetuates, it creates an imbalance that prevents growth and healing. In this blog post, we're discussing self-blame in relationships, why it's often easier to blame ourselves than our partners, and how this pattern can impact individual and relational well-being.

As an ISFJ, I embody the qualities of "The Protector" or "The Nurturer." We are characterized by our compassion, reliability, and attention to detail. As introverts, we draw energy from within ourselves and are deeply attuned to the emotions and needs of others. ISFJs have a strong sense of duty and are committed to supporting and caring for those around them.

The journey of self-discovery and healing is often fueled by a desire for positive change in various aspects of our lives, including relationships. However, one common frustration that emerges is the realization that, despite your personal growth and evolving perspectives, the same may not be true for those around you.

As humans, we're wired to make judgments—it's an inherent aspect of how our brains process information. Even in romantic relationships, it's not uncommon to find ourselves passing judgment on our partners. However, the key lies in understanding the nature of these judgments, recognizing their impact, and fostering open communication.

C-PTSD is very similar to PTSD, but it is more complex and has more far-reaching effects on a person's emotional, psychological, and relationship health.

It’s absolutely possible to find a secure, connected, emotionally safe relationship with a friend, family member, or partner.