Many of my clients begin therapy feeling dissatisfied with how their relationships have turned out. They care so much about the people in their lives, but continually find themselves feeling hurt. Their discomfort with conflict and disappointing others can feel debilitating. They often worry that they’re too much, and that having needs and desires of their own might scare others away.

Because of this, they feel compelled to shrink parts of themselves around others. They hope this will lead to a greater feeling of acceptance, but just wind up feeling smaller, less fulfilled, and often still feel worried about being judged.

They’re keenly aware that they are the common denominator in each relationship, in each setback, and they wonder what's wrong with them. This might begin to feel like a fixation, a replay of everything they do and say, searching for something to criticize. It can feel hard, at times, to like themselves.

They crave connection and confidence and safety, but worry it isn’t possible. They worry something is inherently wrong with them, that they’ll never feel normal or deserve to be happy.

As lonely as this experience may be at times, these are such common feelings to bring into the therapy space. Like the clients I work with, you deserve to find security and peace. It is possible to feel fulfilled and loved in your relationships. More than that, it is possible to achieve all this while feeling safe enough to be your whole, authentic self.

You might feel ready to make these changes in your life but have no idea where to start. Or you might just be too exhausted from carrying all this on your own for so long. If that’s the case, you’re right where you need to be. You don’t need to know exactly which steps to take–a therapist can offer that guidance and support.

I encourage you to get in touch so we can discuss whether I might be the right therapist for you and your specific needs.