I often meet with people who want to understand more about themselves, their thoughts and feelings. These are some areas that we can explore in our sessions:
Perfectionism
Maybe you refer to yourself as a “perfectionist” or you’re always trying to meet the next goal without much satisfaction. Sometimes we strive for flawlessness and high standards, but it’s often accompanied by self-criticism and fear of judgement. Perfectionism can contribute to anxiety, depression, and a need for external validation.
Relationships
Many of the people that work with me tend to have a history of self-criticism, fear of disappointing others, and patterns of losing themselves in relationships. Whether conflicts in romantic relationships or challenges within friendships, we can explore patterns and find understanding to create fulfilling connections.
Family Dynamics
Family dynamics can have a huge impact on our relationships with others and ourselves. When we’ve experienced toxic family dynamics, this can look like constant criticism and judgment to emotional manipulation and control. Recognizing and safely addressing toxic family dynamics can prompt boundary setting, fostering healthier relationships, and can promote personal growth. If you've often found yourself in the position of being the mediator in your family, the scapegoat, or black sheep, we can discuss how these roles are impacting you.
Boundaries
Often the word “boundary” can feel scary! When we identify as “people pleasers,” the idea of setting a limit can feel impossible. You’re not alone. Setting boundaries with others involves clearly communicating your limits and expectations to ensure your well-being is respected. Through your therapy journey, my hope is that you’ll gain the confidence to set boundaries with people in your life (friends, family, colleagues, strangers, etc.).
Anxiety
A necessary feeling that sometimes works on overdrive. Anxiety symptoms can manifest as persistent worry, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating. Physical symptoms like muscle tension, fatigue, and sleep disturbances are also commonly reported by those experiencing anxiety.
Depression
Depression symptoms often show up as feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and emptiness, accompanied by a loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed. Individuals may experience changes in appetite, sleep patterns, concentration, energy levels, and may have thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Trauma
Trauma comes in many forms. Complex trauma is a common and often overlooked experience. When a person is exposed to multiple traumatic events, often of an interpersonal nature, over an extended period, it can result in feelings of worthlessness, shame, and guilt. This type of trauma can result in challenges with regulating emotions, forming healthy relationships, and maintaining a stable sense of self.
Life Transitions
How is your response to change? Life transitions bring both opportunities for growth and potential challenges to navigate. Whether it's starting or losing a job, dating, ending a relationship, pregnancy or relocating to a new city, adjusting to change can be a complex and emotional journey. If there’s areas of your life that you want to change but feel yourself avoiding, let’s explore what’s keeping you from taking those next steps.