Codependency is a relationship dynamic where at least one person has an unhealthy dependence on a partner, family member, or friend. Codependent relationships are dysfunctional and imbalanced, with one person’s needs being prioritized over the other’s needs.
How Low Self-Esteem Effects Your Mental Health Self-esteem refers to how a person feels about themselves. When a person has low self-esteem, they feel unworthy, not capable, and not valuable. These feelings make it difficult to develop healthy coping skills for stress management, which can...
What is Trauma Related Shame? Victims often blame themselves for the trauma they've endured, causing internalized feelings of shame and deterioration of self-esteem. Shame and trauma operate in a cycle where the nervous system is perpetually triggered by shame, exacerbating symptoms of PTSD. Visit the...
What is EMDR Therapy? EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy. EMDR therapy is a treatment modality that uses bilateral stimulation (alternating left and right movements) to help the brain process and heal from traumatic experiences. Traditionally, EMDR therapists have engaged patients in bilateral...
What is Narcissistic Abuse? Narcissistic abuse is emotional and psychological abuse perpetrated by a person with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. Narcissistic abuse lowers self-esteem and can lead to anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Narcissistic abuse occurs in a cycle of four phases, each designed to manipulate and...
What are Boundaries? Boundaries are limits we set to protect our safety, mental health, and emotional wellbeing. Boundaries can strengthen relationships with friends and families and eliminate engagement with high conflict people. We can set boundaries for ourselves (personal boundary) or we can set them...