At three years old, children know what Santa looks like, knows what presents are, and is very interested in both! They will listen to and ask about Christmas stories such as "Elf on the Shelf" or Rudolph, and even the story of the birth of Jesus.
How Do I Know if I’m Stressed? Part 3
How Fear Affects Your Family Life
Communicating Effectively with Your Partner - Stop Being Defensive
In addition to what Teri, Tammy, and Natalie spoke about in their blogs, here are 3 additional tips for effective communication I see are helpful when working with couples:
Reducing defensive responses when your partner gives you constructive criticism, or when your partner shares how they are feeling about something going on in the relationship. When you become defensive and reactive, you create an unsafe environment for your partner to share their feelings.
What Does it Mean to “Let Go”? Part 3
Some of us are better at letting go than others. We all struggle with this concept at some point during our lives. The sensation of holding on gives us this false sense of control, security, and drains us of our energy. Sometimes, we hold on anyway because we do not know how to let go. I hope this week gives you some hints as to how to make that happen.
How to Forgive: Symbolism
As Natalie discussed yesterday in Part 4 of our blog series on forgiveness, it's important to try and hang onto forgiveness, once you have gone through the steps of the process. While she discussed some different ways you can make the commitment to forgiveness, what happens if you are struggling with this, and the memories continue to come back?
What is an Emotional Affair? Signs and Symptoms
What is an Emotional Affair?
What Does it Mean When You Have Abandonment Issues? Part 2
What Does it Mean When You Have Abandonment Issues? Part 1
Many times, our clients feel confusion when the term “abandonment issues” comes up in therapy. After all, don’t we most commonly think of the literal term, “abandonment”, as being physically abandoned (like an infant who is left on a door step for someone to find) ?
So, what exactly are abandonment issues?
How To Communicate Better Part 4
Teri, Tammy, and Natalie have all shared some great tips so far to making our communication better. Here are a few more to add to your "relationship toolbox":
Remember that communication breakdowns aren't always personal. Many times the issue at hand is linked to some deep rooted unresolved issues. Try to empathize with your partner as they are trying to heal from a painful past.
How To Communicate Better Part 2
As Teri mentioned yesterday, disagreements can be healthy, as long as it's done in a respectful way. Healthy conflict can be one of the ways you and another person grow closer. It's natural for people to disappoint us in our lives, but how we handle it is key. Continue to follow tips for healthier communication steps this week, and you'll find yourself more successful at tackling difficult conversations.
Are You an Adult Child? Adult Children of Alcoholics Part 4
Are You an Adult Child? Adult Children of Alcoholics Part 2
Are You an Adult Child? Adult Children of Alcoholics Part 1
The Five Freedoms: To Ask For What You Want
Freedom #4: To Ask for What One Wants Instead of Always Waiting For Permission Many people struggle with telling people what they really want or need. They are afraid they will appear "needy" or not strong. Usually when someone grows up in a family where their needs were secondary or they were punished (emotionally or physically) for having needs, they grow up thinking they shouldn't (there's that word again!) have any needs.