Don't Go to the Hardware Store for Bread Think this saying comes from AA: A number of years ago I began attending a 12 Step recovery program for people affected by someone else’s addiction. In that program I learned so many new ways of seeing the world and how to live life differently. This new healthy … [Read more...] about How to Find Emotionally-Available People
Healthy Relationships
How Do I Deal With Bullies as an Adult?
In my line of work, I hear a lot of stories about people being bullied during their childhood and teen years. I consider it an honour to help people heal from past bullying along with the long-lasting effects it has played in their lives. However, our experience of being bullied often doesn't stop when we … [Read more...] about How Do I Deal With Bullies as an Adult?
How to Reframe Family Gatherings as a Chance to Grow
I am well aware by witnessing the angst all around me, that the winter festivities and get-togethers are in full swing. Between obligatory work parties, friends’ gatherings, and family dinners, some people feel like running off to the woods and holing up in a cabin until the whole thing is over. I’ve spoken … [Read more...] about How to Reframe Family Gatherings as a Chance to Grow
The Five Love Languages
Confession: I’m a self-help book junkie. One title that many of my clients refer to time and time again is The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts by Dr. Gary Chapman. I would nod my head sagely as clients told me what their ‘primary love language’ was and think to myself, “What exactly are … [Read more...] about The Five Love Languages
Choosing the Right Partner
I was in London, England visiting my relatives a number of years ago and walked to Camden Market which was close to my granny's home. In one of the kiosks, something caught my eye. Oddly enough, it was a plain tea towel. I'm not one to get excited by tea towels by any stretch, but this one had something … [Read more...] about Choosing the Right Partner
What to do when someone you love has an addiction
In my practice, one of the most common issues I hear people talk about is addiction; in all its various forms, guises and mutations. I help clients overcome their own personal addictions, and also spend a great amount of time counseling them on how to deal with loved ones who have their own addictions. In my … [Read more...] about What to do when someone you love has an addiction
How You Can Stop Being A Victim
If you’ve been reading my writing lately, you’ve probably noticed that narcissism is on my mind- in particular- figuring out how to help people deal with narcissists effectively, as they are the most slippery of snakes to handle. I thought I could help readers more by tackling what I see as the most prominent … [Read more...] about How You Can Stop Being A Victim
Esther’s Recommended Reading: Dealing with Borderline
One topic that comes up in my practice at least once a week or more is dealing with a loved one who suffers from Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). You may have read an earlier article I wrote on borderline mothers and how to cope with them. In my opinion, the best online resource for people in this … [Read more...] about Esther’s Recommended Reading: Dealing with Borderline