February tends to shine a bright, sometimes unforgiving spotlight on relationships. Everywhere you look, there’s messaging about romance, connection, and “perfect” love. But for many people, this season stirs something quieter and more complex: Am I safe in my relationships? Do I feel secure, seen, and understood—or anxious, guarded, and unsure? Relationships aren’t just about chemistry or commitment. They’re about emotional safety . And emotional safety is deeply shaped by o

Political seasons can stir intense emotions—fear, anger, grief, exhaustion, and helplessness. For many, the constant stream of headlines, commentary, and conflict can feel inescapable. Whether you are deeply engaged or actively trying to avoid the noise, political turmoil has a way of seeping into daily life, relationships, and our sense of safety. It is possible to remain informed and  emotionally well. Wellness does not require disengagement from the world—it asks for inten

January has a way of sobering us up. The holidays come with warmth, novelty, distractions, and a kind of emotional buffering. There’s music, gatherings, traditions, hope, and the belief that connection will feel easier. Then January arrives—quiet, routine, and emotionally bare. Suddenly, what felt manageable in December feels heavy. Conversations feel harder. Distance feels louder. Small issues feel bigger. And many people begin wondering: Are we okay? But January doesn’t usu

January has a way of making relationships feel suddenly heavier. Even couples or partners who “made it through the holidays” often arrive in January feeling disconnected, irritable, emotionally distant, or unsure why things feel off. There may not have been a big fight or rupture—just a quiet sense that something shifted. If this resonates, you’re not imagining it. January can place unique emotional strain on relationships and understanding why  can help you move forward with

I’ve had a few friends ask where my inspiration for blog topics comes from, and more often than not, it’s born from themes I consistently see showing up in the therapy room. This one is no different. Unfortunately, there seems to be an uptick in relationship struggles and breakups right now. And while breakups are never easy, adding the holidays into the mix can turn heartache into real emotional distress. The holidays are often portrayed as a time of togetherness, warmth, an

Every December, social media fills with countdowns, vision boards, and bold declarations of who we’ll suddenly become on January 1st. The pressure is loud: “New Year, New Me!” But here’s the truth most people don’t admit: By February, nearly 80% of resolutions have been abandoned. Not because people are weak. Not because they don’t care. But because resolutions built on pressure, perfectionism, or comparison were never sustainable in the first place . If you’re tired of the

Introduction: When the Holidays Don’t Feel So Merry The holidays are often painted as a season of laughter, lights, and togetherness—but for many, this time of year also brings stress, grief, or exhaustion. Between family expectations, packed schedules, and social pressure to “be merry,” it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. If you’ve ever ended the season feeling drained instead of fulfilled, this post is for you. It’s time to reclaim your joy and make the holidays

For a long time, I thought I was the only one. Abuse has a way of convincing you that you’re alone , that no one would believe you, that you somehow caused it, and worst of all — that you deserve it. That’s one of the most devastating truths about abuse: it doesn’t just bruise your body, it isolates your soul. As both a therapist and a survivor, I know firsthand how confusing, shame-filled, and paralyzing it can feel to love someone who hurts you. I also know how frustrating

Tips for grounding and structure as summer ends As the long days of summer give way to the crisp air and golden leaves of fall, many of us feel a natural shift. September often brings new school schedules, busier work demands, and shorter days, which can feel both energizing and overwhelming. The transition is a perfect opportunity to build routines that provide grounding and stability for your mental health.