‘Adulting’ can be exasperating—so much so that achieving autonomy and stability across the board seems nearly impossible at times. Adults who appear to ‘have it all together’ may witness other adults religiously rely on their parents for support and then grumble to themselves: “Cut the umbilical cord, already.” However, these ‘have it all together’ adults could benefit from considering that … [Read more...] about The Infantilization Tactic: Parent-Adult Child Codependency and Narcissistic Abuse Cues
Healthy Boundaries
Grab the Reins: Overcoming High Levels of Negative Expressed Emotion in the Family Environment
“Snap out of it!” “What’s wrong with you?” “Don’t you dare try to tell us that we don’t love you!” The commentary from family members never seems to end. In fact, it only adds fuel to the fire, bound to create an explosion. You often wear your pain and trauma on your sleeve, and your cries for help are frequently met with anger, disappointment, and looks of confusion. Your face is … [Read more...] about Grab the Reins: Overcoming High Levels of Negative Expressed Emotion in the Family Environment
What to Do When Your Boundaries Are Not Respected
Even when we set healthy boundaries for ourselves, it does not mean that other people will always acknowledge or respect these boundaries. If you find yourself in this situation here are some steps you can take: Explain (again) Your Boundary: You may have been very clear, but sometimes we are not as clear as we think we are. If you would like to give the other person the benefit of the doubt, … [Read more...] about What to Do When Your Boundaries Are Not Respected
Are You Taking an Unnecessary Amount of Responsibility?
Holding yourself appropriately accountable is a crucial skill to have. Inappropriate accountability occurs when you take an unnecessary amount of responsibility. Your automatic thought process comes up with associations and tells you what your responsibility is. Here, I introduce you to the six most common thoughts that I often encounter in the therapy room related to taking on unnecessary amounts … [Read more...] about Are You Taking an Unnecessary Amount of Responsibility?