Our bodies are fascinating. They have a built-in survival mechanism that is automatically set off when we are faced with danger. This is an incredibly intelligent system that in a matter of seconds assesses the situation and selects the most adaptive of four options – fight, flight, freeze, or fawn. 

Each one presents itself differently in the brain and body. 

This is also known as a trauma response.

This is the second of a three-part blog aimed at setting straight myths about couples therapy.  This week we focus on the Myth that couples therapy is only for “failed” relationships…whatever that means. 

It’s important to note that relationships don’t fail – people change and the relationship stops suiting them. Doing something about that – whether it’s seeking therapy or ending the relationship – are a show of strength and resilience. The couple saw a problem and did something about it, how amazing! I’d say therapy isn’t for failed relationships, it’s for couples who want to do something about a problem.

The reality is that many couples at various phases of a relationship can benefit from couples therapy. In this blog we explore how couples therapy can be helpful at different relationship phases. Read now to learn more…

There are some myths circulating about couples therapy and this is the first of a three-part blog aimed at setting each one straight. This week we focus on the Myth that trauma is an individual problem and cannot be healed relationally.

The reality is that many survivors can benefit from individual therapy and even group therapy for support around their traumas. However, many survivors, as part of their healing journey will begin seeking a couple’s therapist with their partner and this can strengthen their healing process. Here’s why…

There are few people out there who would say that joining a group is an easy, stress free, and soothing event. If you’re one of them, kudos to you! For the rest of us, joining a group can be a stressful experience requiring an uncomfortable amount of vulnerability. If that’s you – you deserve a round of applause for even opening this blog!

There was a time when the mere thought of a group would have the hairs on the back of my neck stand up and I’d be running the other way. Now, I absolutely love to facilitate them and see the incredible impact they can have! You might find that group therapy is exactly what your treatment plan has been missing.

Finding the right therapist can be difficult. Finding the right therapist who offers the right type of therapy for you can be even more difficult.

When looking for therapy, nothing is more important than finding a therapist who specializes in the problem that you are experiencing and whose approach resonates with you. This couldn’t be truer if you’re experiencing difficulties related to trauma, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). That’s because different traumas impact people differently and a skilled therapist will know what to look for.

Have you ever approached your partner with a problem — let’s say you got a reprimand at work for being late — and they swoop in and try to fix the problem for you — “How about you turn your computer on a 10 minutes before your meeting” or “Maybe try going to sleep earlier next time”

Most people leave this conversation feeling unheard and criticized because, whether it was intended or not, their person just hinted that they’re not capable of solving their own problem.

So you found a therapist, you mustered up the courage to get in touch, and you scheduled your first therapy appointment. Now what?