When life feels unmanageable, even the thought of starting therapy can seem overwhelming. It can feel like justonemorething on top of a heap of things that are not getting done. So is not unusual for people to delay seeking help because they feel stuck in a cycle of...
Trauma
Therapy for the Overwhelmed – How to Begin When Everything Feels Too Much
Understanding the Window of Tolerance in Trauma Therapy
The concept of the Window of Tolerance, developed by Dr. Dan Siegel, has become an essential framework in trauma-informed psychotherapy. It describes the optimal zone of arousal in which a person can function effectively, think clearly, and engage socially. For those...
Panic in the Therapy Room: Grounding vs. Internal Family Systems
When someone experiences a panic attack during therapy, the typical response is to help them “ground” — reconnecting with the present moment through the five senses, breathwork, or body awareness. This somatic approach often offers vital immediate relief. However, the...
The Correspondence Between Shame, Guilt, and Trauma in Integrative Psychotherapy
In my work as an integrative psychotherapist, I frequently encounter the powerful interplay between shame, guilt, and trauma. These experiences are not just emotional states but profound forces that shape a person’s sense of self and their relationships with others....
The Long-Term Effects of Ignoring a Child’s Wants, Needs, Feelings, and Desires
Childhood is a critical period where emotional needs, feelings, and desires are nurtured to build a healthy sense of self. When a child’s emotional world is neglected—whether through outright dismissal or inadvertent ignorance—the repercussions can ripple far into...
Does the TV series ‘The Mentalist’ have anything to say about mental health?
A bit of fun this month. “The Mentalist,” a popular TV series that aired from 2008 to 2015, primarily focused on crime-solving and psychological manipulation. However, several aspects of the show touch on themes related to mental health, even if they are not...
Empowering Autistic and ADHD Clients: The Transformative Role of Neurodiverse Counselling
Here Liz Pilley, an Autistic Counsellor and friend, talks about her experience of working with Neurodivergent clients. Working with Neurodivergent (ND) Clients One of my favourite things about being an autistic counsellor for clients who are autistic or have ADHD is...
Navigating the Intersections: Understanding the Link Between ADHD, Trauma, and LGBTQ+ Experiences
I often encounter individuals who navigate complex intersections of identity and mental health challenges. One such intersection is the overlap between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), experiences of trauma, and identifying as LGBTQ+. This blog aims to...
Working with Trauma in a Trauma-informed Way
Trauma can have profound and lasting effects on an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Addressing these impacts in a compassionate and effective manner is crucial for therapy. Babette Rothschild, a renowned expert in trauma therapy, has developed...
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