Projecting Our Lack of Self-Worth onto Others
When we struggle with low self-esteem or a lack of self-worth, it can be easy to project these feelings onto others. Projection is a defense mechanism that involves attributing our own undesirable traits, emotions, or insecurities onto someone else. This often happens subconsciously and can lead to misunderstanding, conflict, and strained relationships. Understanding how we […]
Grief and Loss
Grief is a deeply personal and often overwhelming response to loss. Whether it stems from the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or a significant life transition, grief can impact every aspect of a person’s well-being. While grief is a universal experience, the way each person processes and expresses it is […]
Internalizing Rejection After People Set Boundaries
When someone sets a boundary, especially in relationships, it can be a challenging experience. For many people, especially those who struggle with feelings of inadequacy or insecurity, the act of being given a boundary can be interpreted as rejection. Understanding why this happens and how to manage these feelings is crucial for personal growth and […]
Relational Trauma in Romantic Partnerships
Romantic relationships have the power to bring love, security, and joy—but when they involve relational trauma, they can also leave deep emotional scars. Relational trauma occurs when someone experiences chronic emotional distress, manipulation, betrayal, or abuse in a relationship. Unlike a one-time event, this type of trauma develops over time, often leaving individuals feeling trapped, […]
People-Pleasing: Understanding and Overcoming the Habit
People-pleasing is a common behavior that involves prioritizing the needs and desires of others over one’s own, often at the expense of personal well-being. People-pleasers tend to seek approval and validation from others, fearing rejection or disapproval. While the intention behind people-pleasing is often rooted in a desire to maintain harmony and avoid conflict, it […]
Understanding Bipolar Disorder and Helpful Coping Mechanisms
What is Bipolar Disorder? Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition characterized by significant mood swings that range from manic or hypomanic highs to depressive lows. These fluctuations can impact every aspect of life, including relationships, work, and overall well-being. While bipolar disorder presents unique challenges, it is also a highly manageable condition with […]
Understanding Codependency: What It Is and How to Heal
The Signs, Impact, and How Therapy Can Help Emotional abuse can be subtle yet deeply damaging, and recognizing its signs is crucial for your well-being and personal growth. What is Emotional Abuse? Emotional abuse involves the systematic manipulation and undermining of an individual’s self-worth and emotional stability. Unlike physical abuse, it leaves no visible scars, […]
Understanding Sex and Porn Addiction in Men: A Clinical Perspective
Sex and pornography addiction are often misunderstood, minimized, or stigmatized, which can prevent individuals from seeking help. As a licensed therapist specializing in addiction and co-occurring disorders, I want to provide clarity about these conditions and their impact on men’s mental health and relationships. What is Sex and Porn Addiction? Sex and pornography addiction refer […]
Emotional Abuse
The Signs, Impact, and How Therapy Can Help Emotional abuse can be subtle yet deeply damaging, and recognizing its signs is crucial for your well-being and personal growth. What is Emotional Abuse? Emotional abuse involves the systematic manipulation and undermining of an individual’s self-worth and emotional stability. Unlike physical abuse, it leaves no visible scars, […]