Healing From Betrayal and Developing Healthy Intimacy

Healing From Betrayal and Developing Healthy Intimacy

Humans need relationships. From infancy, we learn to depend on others for our wellbeing. As we grow we become more independent, however even as adults we need relationships to create a strong sense of self and a secure base we can fall back on when bad things happen. According to Dr. Freyd, “Betrayal trauma occurs when the people or institutions on which a person depends for survival significantly violate that person’s trust or well-being” (2008).

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I Just Want to Fix It: How to Help your Stressed Out Partner

I Just Want to Fix It: How to Help your Stressed Out Partner

Every person experiences hardships and stress from various sources, such as friendships, employment, health issues, or parenting. These stressors can create feelings of anxiety, fear, anger, sadness, confusion, and helplessness, and create physical health issues including breathing issues, inability to sleep, muscle tension, headaches, and so on. When people are struggling, it is perfectly natural to turn to our significant other to find relief and support. However, there are times when reaching out leads to pain or annoyance.

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Emotional Connection
Mental Health, Emotional Wellness, Couples Therapy Dausha Chriss, CSW Mental Health, Emotional Wellness, Couples Therapy Dausha Chriss, CSW

Emotional Connection

Emotional connection is a form of vulnerability and intimacy that couples need to have in order to maintain healthy and secure attachments. It is more than saying “I love you” or having consensual sexual relations with your partner, but it is allowing your partner to see and be present with you in all forms of emotion, including ones that require vulnerability, such as pain, sadness, shame, loneliness, or fear. These emotions can come from our personal triggers, unresolved past experiences, or attachment needs not being met. However, sharing and understanding one’s emotions can be difficult and does not come easily for everyone.

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The What and Why of Couples Therapy
Couples Therapy, Mental/Emotional Health Jeff Lundgren, CMHC Couples Therapy, Mental/Emotional Health Jeff Lundgren, CMHC

The What and Why of Couples Therapy

Couples therapy is a form of therapy that helps couples improve their relationship and work through challenges they may face. It's important to note that the goal of couples therapy is not to keep a couple married or encourage them to get divorced. Instead, it's about providing a safe space for couples to heal wounds, gain insight, and work on their relationship.

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