Navigating relationships can be challenging for anyone, but for individuals with an avoidant attachment style, expressing needs and emotions can feel particularly overwhelming. When avoidance becomes a core defense mechanism, individuals may find it difficult to communicate openly, advocate for themselves, or even recognize their own emotional needs. This can create a cycle of isolation and dissatisfaction in relationships, leaving individuals feeling unheard and disconnected.

Self-esteem plays a crucial role in shaping how we view ourselves and the world around us. It affects our relationships, our work, and our overall sense of well-being. When self-esteem is low, it can leave us feeling stuck, unworthy, and disconnected from our true potential. Therapy for self-esteem is designed to help individuals explore the root causes of their low self-worth, develop healthier self-perceptions, and build a stronger foundation for confidence and self-compassion.

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.

Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is an innovative and compassionate approach to psychotherapy that emphasizes the understanding and healing of the multiple sub-personalities, or "parts," within each person. Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz in the 1980s, IFS offers a unique lens through which to view and treat psychological issues, particularly those rooted in trauma.

Anxious attachment, a term rooted in attachment theory, describes a style of relating to others characterized by a deep-seated fear of abandonment and rejection. This attachment style often develops in childhood and can significantly influence one's adult relationships. Understanding anxious attachment and its implications is crucial for fostering healthier connections and personal well-being.

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.

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.

In the journey of trauma recovery, one of the often overlooked but critical aspects is the tendency to mask emotions. Many individuals, especially those who have experienced significant trauma, develop this coping mechanism as a way to navigate through life. While it might appear on the surface that such individuals are exceptionally calm and grounded, the reality is often far more complex.

Healing from childhood trauma is a courageous and transformative journey, but it's not without its challenges. While embarking on the path to healing can lead to profound personal growth and empowerment, it also involves confronting uncomfortable truths, making difficult choices, and navigating significant changes in various aspects of life.

It’s completely normal for conflicts to arise in relationships. But, how we respond to these conflicts can reveal deep-seated patterns and beliefs about ourselves and others. Some individuals have a natural tendency to blame others when faced with challenges, deflecting responsibility and externalizing the problem. Conversely, others are quick to shoulder the blame, assuming fault even when it may not be warranted.

Perfectionism and high-performing anxiety are more common than you might think, and they often go hand in hand, creating a relentless pressure to excel in every aspect of life. But, beneath the surface of apparent success lies a tangled web of self-doubt and overwhelm. In this blog post, we’ll explore the roots of perfectionism, its ties to childhood trauma, and practical strategies for finding peace amidst the chaos.

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 Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a widely used personality assessment tool designed to offer insights into individual preferences, tendencies, and behaviors. Developed by Katharine Cook Briggs and her daughter Isabel Briggs Myers in the mid-20th century, the MBTI draws upon the psychological theories of Carl Jung to categorize individuals into one of 16 distinct personality types.

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.

In the realm of relationships, the balance between interdependence and codependence significantly shapes the dynamics between individuals. As a therapist specializing in trauma recovery, I often meet with individuals and couples who need support in navigating this complex topic.

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.

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

Attachment theory primarily came out of research between infants and caregivers, so what does attachment style have anything to do with your adult relationships, you may ask?

You’ve seen “attachment” show up more and more in social media, but what does it really mean?