Azin Heydari

Individuals who have experienced trauma or abuse often struggle to acknowledge or accept their own experiences. They may downplay or invalidate themselves because they were told they are "too much" or “too emotional,” or they may not have felt important enough to be supported. While therapy aims to empower survivors to move past these difficult events, it's important to create space for these experiences and to develop a strong sense of self-compassion and curiosity about how these experiences have shaped you and how you navigate relationships. Negative experiences can create a constant state of fear in our brains and nervous systems, making it difficult to access the parts of our brain responsible for emotional regulation, flexibility, and connection. In our work together, my main approach is to foster safety in relationships by encouraging a deep understanding and curiosity about oneself, rather than resorting to guilt, isolation, and self-blame. By becoming the observer rather than overwhelmed, you can start showing up in the world and in your relationships the way you've always wanted.