Latest articles on counselling and therapy

Many of us find ourselves in relationships that keep repeating the same patterns of behaviour and we attract similar types of partners. This is attributed to us seeking our parents in partners, yes I know it is scary to say it, but it is true. We are conditioned by our parents, be it a good or bad experience, grow up, attract them, marry them and become them! From parents to partners If we consider that we are part of each parent and it is what we are familiar with or is known to us,...

I do not need to tell anyone that has experienced a partner having an affair or being the person having the affair what effect this can have on a relationship on so many levels. There are many reasons that lead to affairs happening in a relationship, which has a detrimental impact on both parties. Why do affairs happen? The key triggers of why affairs happen are commonly around partners feeling there is an emotional disconnection, a lack of any intimacy, a breakdown of communication and not...

There is so much exposure for our children in society, with such easy access to social media and an increase in cyberbullying, self-harm, low self-esteem, social isolation, family and peer relationships, depression, suicidal thoughts, identity, exams and some type of sexual exploitation, it is very difficult for children, young people and parents to manage these issues. This can be detrimental to their mental, physical and emotional well-being, with some children as young as eight years old...

Narcissism and narcissistic abuse Narcissism is a personality type that is characterised by a distinct lack of empathy, selfishness and self-seeking intentions and behaviours. Narcissists actually have deep-seated insecurities, loathing and shame yet their actions overcompensate for this. Instead, they have a pathological need for attention and admiration in order to feel good about themselves and to ease their fragile sense of self.  Other characteristics include having a distinct sense...

Relationships of all kinds are discussed frequently in counselling sessions and consist of complex dynamics which can be difficult to understand. When the bond or attachment between two people breaks down, it can incite a number of different responses. More often than not, at least one party involved in the relationship breakdown is experiencing a complex mix of emotions which can feel overwhelming and hard to understand. The grieving/healing process can be experienced as painful, frustrating,...