Blog

Let’s be honest—work isn’t just about what you do. It’s about who you do it with. The relationships we build in the workplace play a huge role in how we feel about our jobs. When these relationships are positive, it creates an environment where we can thrive. But when they break down, it can have devastating effects on our mental health, leading to stress, anxiety, and even time off work.

If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you’re feeling the weight of a strained family relationship—specifically, a relationship with a sibling. And I want you to know, right from the start, that I completely understand how challenging this can feel. Growing up, we’re often led to believe that sibling relationships are meant to be full of laughter and support, but in reality, they can be quite complicated. And sometimes, things just don’t turn out that way.

Whether you’re reading this as a long-time client or someone new exploring how to improve your relationships, it’s important to recognise that relationships are central to our lives. We experience various kinds, from romantic relationships to friendships, family bonds, and even professional connections. While each type is different, there is one common thread that can either make or break them: communication. Today, I want to explore how relationships break down when communication falters, why this happens, and how to rebuild those connections with healthier communication.

As someone who has gone through the devastating experience of intimate partner violence (IPV), I understand how deeply it can affect your sense of self and your ability to trust others, especially in the context of emotional intimacy. After surviving domestic abuse, whether physical, emotional, or psychological, your world can feel shattered. The idea of trusting again—both yourself and a new partner—can feel terrifying. But it’s important to know that healing is possible. In this blog, I want to share my perspective, having walked that difficult path, and offer insight into how one can rebuild trust, re-establish emotional intimacy, and how a supportive partner can play a crucial role in this healing process.

Domestic violence and intimate partner violence (IPV) are pervasive issues affecting millions of individuals each year. These forms of abuse manifest in various ways, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse. Recognising the factors leading someone into a toxic relationship, understanding the dynamics at play, and identifying red flags are crucial steps in breaking the cycle of violence.

Life is a series of transitions, moments of change that urge us to step into the unknown. One of the most profound transformations we can embark upon is the journey of accepting our true selves. This process often requires us to confront deeply ingrained behaviours and patterns, shaped by years of experiences, expectations, and sometimes, societal pressures. The path to authenticity is not always easy, but it is a journey well worth taking.

The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy, laughter, and togetherness. However, for many, it can bring a sense of solitude or heartache, particularly for those who are co-parenting during this time, dealing with the absence of loved ones, or coping with recent bereavement. If you find yourself feeling out of sync with the season’s festivities, you are not alone, and there are ways to not only survive but to nurture resilience and embrace self-care during this challenging time.

While the holiday season often brings joy, laughter, and festivities, it can also be a challenging time for many. From the pressures of gift-giving to the emotional weight of family dynamics, Christmas and New Year’s can carry unexpected burdens. Let’s explore some of the worst aspects of the holiday season that often go unspoken.