Emotions are the paints to life’s blank canvas, in my opinion. When you discover a new one, you’ve discovered a new color. Similarly to paints, there is a basic emotional palette, and then endless variations and combinations. In the art of contemplative psychotherapy, we practice meeting each emotional experience with present awareness and compassionate witnessing, […]
Healing Deep Wounds with Faith and Evidence-Based Care What Is Complex Trauma? Complex trauma—often referred to in clinical settings as Complex PTSD—develops from prolonged or repeated exposure to emotionally painful or unsafe experiences, often in early life. Unlike single-incident trauma, complex trauma is relational. It can stem from neglect, chronic stress, abandonment, or unstable caregiving. […]
Anger in children can be confusing and overwhelming for both parents and caregivers. This blog explores how children develop anger, how to recognize the signs, and how early support can make a meaningful difference. We will also look at how working with a psychotherapist in Toronto, using approaches like art therapy for children, can help […]
She looked at me like I’d suggested she try flapping her arms and flying home. I’d floated the idea of being a little kinder to herself — nothing dramatic — and her response was immediate. Almost allergic. “That feels fake.” Then, quieter: “I don’t think I can do that.” I’ve had this conversation more times […]
We love the idea of newness. A fresh start. A clean slate. A sudden burst of motivation that finally makes everything in our lives line up. In faith spaces, “newness” can sound even more immediate—like once you pray the right prayer, choose the right habits, or “let it go,” you should feel different right away. […]
If you’re a woman who feels constantly overwhelmed, distracted, or “behind” – despite trying hard to stay organized – you’re not alone. Many women with ADHD go years without a diagnosis, often being misunderstood or misdiagnosed along the way. The truth is, ADHD in women can look very different than the stereotypical hyperactive presentation, and […]
CLICK HERE TO OPEN Recognition Loops Substack
I have had many sessions with clients (mainly men) on a concept for which they struggle to overcome. That is, trying (and usually failing) to be Superman in our everyday lives. I believe at some point in our lives, we want to be a hero or at least experience something which identifies us as heroic. […]
“Practice self-care” is common advice—especially when life feels overwhelming. But not everything we call self-care is actually care. Sometimes it’s self-soothing: a quick way to calm discomfort in the moment. Both self-care and self-soothing have a place in emotional wellness. The key is knowing which one you’re using—and whether it’s helping you heal or simply […]
Preteens today are navigating increasingly complex emotional landscapes. Anxiety, overwhelm, sensitivity, and self-doubt often begin to emerge during these years, sometimes without the language or tools needed to make sense of what they’re experiencing. For many children, emotions can feel sudden, intense, and confusing. They may not yet have the ability to clearly express what’s […]
