Ask the Therapist | Therapist Insight
Why anniversaries can still affect us years later As we mark the 25th anniversary of September 11, many people may notice memories and emotions returning—sometimes unexpectedly. For some, the day brings grief for someone who died. For others, it brings… Continue Reading →
Dear Therapist, I know that I need rest, but whenever I slow down, I feel guilty. I start thinking about everything I should be doing and have trouble enjoying the time. Why does resting feel so uncomfortable? Sincerely, Anonymous Dear… Continue Reading →
Sometimes we keep talking because we believe that if we explain ourselves clearly enough, calmly enough, or one more time, the other person will finally understand. Sometimes they do. But sometimes the issue is no longer a lack of communication…. Continue Reading →
“Let them.” Those two words have become incredibly popular, and for good reason. There is something freeing about recognizing that we cannot control another person’s choices, opinions, or behavior. If someone wants to misunderstand you, let them. If someone chooses… Continue Reading →
One of the things I notice most often in therapy is that people become incredibly skilled at identifying their patterns, but not necessarily at responding to themselves with compassion. They can tell me exactly why they react the way they… Continue Reading →
This is one of the most common questions people ask in therapy. They know they should set boundaries, stop overthinking, leave the unhealthy relationship, start exercising, speak up for themselves, or stop checking their phone before bed. They know. So… Continue Reading →
Many people grow up with the belief that love has to be earned, through being helpful, performing, staying “good,” or not needing too much. If you relate to that, you’re not broken. This is often a learned survival strategy that… Continue Reading →
There’s a moment that comes up often in therapy. Someone pauses, almost second-guessing themselves, and says: “I know this isn’t a big deal… but my reaction feels huge.” And almost immediately, there’s a layer of shame that follows. A sense… Continue Reading →
One of the most common pieces of advice people hear when they’re overwhelmed is simple and well-intentioned: “You just need to rest.” And yet, for many people, slowing down doesn’t feel relieving at all. It feels uncomfortable. Restless. Sometimes even… Continue Reading →
A question I’m often asked: “Why do I feel overwhelmed even when nothing is technically wrong?” This is one of the most common and most misunderstood experiences I hear about. Many people assume that overwhelm only makes sense when something… Continue Reading →