People whose internal world is organised around a schizoid process [this is jargon for people who need a lot of safety in their life] often experience ordinary questions as criticism. This reaction is not about being ‘overly sensitive’, nor is it a sign of...
Liz Pilley
Why Questions Feel Like Criticism in the Schizoid Process
Understanding Ware’s Sequence in Transactional Analysis
Ware’s Sequence is a well-established concept within Transactional Analysis (TA) that explains how individuals move through ego states in predictable ways when stress, conflict, or relational pressure builds. Originally described by Paul Ware in the early 1980s, it...
A Neurodiversity-Affirming Reading List for Therapists and Clients
A Neurodiversity-Affirming Reading List for Therapists and Clients I was chatting with some other therapists about good books for neurodivergent folk. They came up with a list. This aims to be a curated, community-informed reading list for therapists and clients...
How Online Booking Systems Can Improve Accessibility for Neurodivergent Clients
For many neurodivergent people—particularly those with ADHD, autism, or social anxiety—the process of arranging therapy can be daunting. Traditional booking methods often involve making a phone call, navigating conversation scripts, and responding spontaneously under...
ADHD and Subscriptions – Why We Don’t Cancel and How to Take Control
I often find myself unintentionally collecting subscriptions — streaming platforms, productivity apps, fitness memberships, software trials, and more. I may start with enthusiasm but soon forget to cancel, even when no longer using them. This pattern can be...
Body Doubling for ADHD – Accountability and Focus Through Connection
For many people with ADHD, getting started can be the hardest part. Even when motivation is high, tasks can remain untouched, delayed by overwhelm, distraction, or inertia. One increasingly popular technique to break this cycle is body doubling: working alongside...
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Self-Identifying as ADHD
Self-identifying as having Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) means recognising in yourself a pattern of symptoms that seems to fit ADHD and using that label personally—often before (or instead of) a formal clinical diagnosis. In the UK, formal diagnosis...
Another Thought about Why We Put Things Off
Often when I really need to get something done I find that I don’t. Having spoken with many people, I find that there is a familiar set of circumstances: the creeping delay, the mental circling, the sudden urge to tidy the kitchen instead of starting the task that...
Staying Safe When Working Alone As A Psychotherapist
I was recently discussing with a colleague some new offices that they are considering. Part of the scenario was that they are hoping to offer late evening, face to face sessions. This got me thinking about the potential dangers of working alone. So I put together some...