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.

Communication is the foundation of any healthy relationship, but for couples coping with the impact of complex PTSD (C-PTSD), maintaining open and productive dialogue can be especially challenging. Emotional dysregulation—a common symptom of C-PTSD—can significantly hinder communication and create an environment where misunderstandings, conflict, and emotional pain take center stage.

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.

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.

Among the various therapeutic methods available, Brainspotting Therapy stands out as a powerful and effective tool for healing trauma. In this blog post, we will delve into what Brainspotting Therapy is, what you can expect from it, who it is helpful for, and why it may be more beneficial than previous methods you may have tried. Finally, we will guide you on how to find a Brainspotting therapist near you and explain my own expertise and success in using this therapy to help people process and heal from trauma.

Trauma therapy offers a structured and compassionate approach to help individuals navigate the aftermath of traumatic experiences, facilitating recovery and fostering resilience. In this blog post, we will explore what trauma therapy is, what you can expect from it, who it can help, and why it might be more effective than previous methods you may have tried. Additionally, we will provide guidance on finding a trauma therapist near you and share how I, as a trained trauma therapist, can support you in your healing journey.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 relationships of any kind, the ability to be vulnerable and authentic is crucial for emotional well-being and depth of connection. However, many individuals find themselves navigating environments where revealing their true selves is met with disapproval, judgment, or even rejection. In such spaces, the compulsion to keep secrets and maintain a facade can give rise to a form of psychological trauma that silently takes its toll, often starting at a young age.

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.

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.

You have options beyond the traditional model of therapy that help you feel better, faster.