Have you ever agreed to something you did not want to do, then found yourself angry, avoidant, or determined not to follow through? Or perhaps you have wanted closeness but become distant as soon as another person seems to expect something from you. These shifts can...
Boundaries
When the Part That Pleases Meets the Part That Pushes Back
The Rebellious Adaptive Child: When Saying No Has Kept You Safe
Many people know the feeling of becoming suddenly resistant when someone tells them what to do. A request that seems ordinary can produce irritation, a wish to argue, an urge to leave, or a firm internal “no”. Afterwards, they may wonder why they reacted so strongly....
When Anger Is Trying to Protect Something Tender
Anger is often spoken about as if it is mainly a difficulty to be managed. We hear about anger management, anger issues, angry outbursts, angry people. Of course anger can become harmful. It can be used to intimidate, control, punish or avoid responsibility. When...
Being in the “I’m OK, You’re OK” Life Position When In-Laws Sabotage Gifts
Introduction This Christmas, a friend made a lovely gift for her son-in-law. When he showed it to his parents they deliberately broke it. Now, Christmas gatherings can often amplify long-standing relational patterns. When in-laws deliberately damage or sabotage a gift...
Protecting Children Through Open Communication
In today’s complex world, many parents find themselves asking one crucial question: “How can I protect my child?” According to Dr. Amy Zabin, the central answer lies in a concept that might sound both simple and obvious—communication. Although parenting methods and...
Understanding The Narcissist’s Prayer: A Tool for Insight and Healing
In the field of psychotherapy, one of the most challenging and complex dynamics we often encounter is the impact of narcissistic abuse. Such experiences can profoundly affect the lives of those involved, often leaving behind a trail of confusion, self-doubt, and...
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