Belonging is more than just being part of a group—it’s the deep feeling of being accepted, valued, and understood. It often forms through shared experiences, interests, backgrounds, or identities, such as age, culture, faith, or sexuality. For many, it’s where we feel most at home with ourselves and others. Why is it so important? Because […]
You may have been called “too sensitive” or “too much” growing up. Partners, friends, family or colleagues may have made you feel like your deep feelings were a burden for them. The reality is that you are simply wired to feel life deeply. The world around you can often be an overwhelming experience! There are […]
STRATEGIES TO AVOID FALLING FOR TOXIC DATING PATTERNS “Why do I keep falling for the same type and patterns over and over again? Dating is exhausting.” I hear these comments and experiences often, and I’ve experienced these types of dates myself as well, including as a seasoned therapist who has worked with plenty of people […]
Is Your Life on Autopilot? Have you ever felt stuck? Are you running the same patterns repeatedly, even when you consciously want something different? You may hit invisible walls when trying to break a habit, achieve a goal, or react differently in certain situations. If so, you’re not alone. Often, the root lies deeper than […]
I refer to emotional abuse as ‘hidden’ because it is given far less recognition than other forms of abuse, such as physical or sexual. The victim is often blamed. They are “oversensitive” and basically not able to “take it, like other people do”. What is Emotional Abuse Emotional abuse is an emotional attack on another […]
Forgiveness is a subject that has been endlessly discussed. There are pros and cons. Some people insist it is necessary in order ‘to move on’. Others say forgiveness is forced and artificial. Whatever side you’re on it is agreed that we need to let go of past hurts. Many of my clients suffer from past […]
In my Toronto therapy practice I have heard many people say this. Change can be very difficult and frightening. I speak to them about real change as opposed to cosmetic change. Real Change Happens on a Deep Level – Many people come to me to make a change in their lives. For example they look at […]
Change is messy. It doesn’t come neatly packaged with step-by-step instructions. Instead, it’s a scribble-filled sketchbook of false starts, erased plans, and moments of clarity hidden between lines of uncertainty. Transitions—whether it’s pivoting your career, relocating to a new city, or rewriting your life’s story—can feel a lot like wandering in unfamiliar territory without a […]
If you’ve ever felt caught in a cycle with sex, drinking, drugs, or gambling (one that feels impossible to stop, even when you want to) you’re not alone. Maybe part of you wants change, while another part isn’t sure it’s possible. Or maybe the behavior brings some relief… until it brings shame, regret, or disconnection. […]
Living abroad is a transformative experience that can bring both excitement and challenges. As a cross-cultural adaptation therapist with over two decades of experience working with expatriates, I’ve observed common patterns in their emotional journeys. This article explores the expatriate experience and how therapy can help navigate its unique challenges. The Initial Leap Many people […]
