We learn patterns and develop habits and behaviors over time to protect ourselves, and sometimes these can become unhealthy, unproductive or downright destructive. And understanding this means that we can un-learn these patterns in favor of more effective ones that are aligned with our true selves.

Life is going to happen. While we certainly don’t want unhelpful negative thoughts and feelings to control us, often times therapy is much more about learning to accept the full range of emotions and experiences, and making choices from a grounded place that reflects our goals and values.

If only we had the science, research, education, and ability to “un-do” all the generational, cultural and other trauma in the world… I would run, skip and jump into another profession gladly! Until we find that magic wand though…. I’ll be right here. ;)

This one is tricky and I’ve developed my view about self-disclosure over the 20 years I’ve been in the mental health field, so let’s start by acknowledging that boundaries are absolutely necessary within the therapy relationship (if you feel like you know more about your therapist than they know about you, run!). And, I bring myself to therapy, as opposed to a “blank slate” version of me. I love having the opportunity to develop real, genuine, human relationships with the people I work with, and find that it actually strengthens the therapeutic alliance.