Since the 1970s, LGBTQ people have been fighting; fighting for equal rights and fighting to dismantle the stereotype that their relationships have no different values and needs. The truth is, LGBTQ relationships are just as loving and committed as heterosexual ones. And they can also...
Conflict is natural, and every couple will experience it at some point in their relationship. The difference between a couple who can navigate this conflict and those who allow conflict to break their bond comes down to proven conflict resolution strategies. The following are highly...
Bipolar disorder is a condition that affects an individual’s mood. While manageable, the condition not only affects how a person thinks and feels, but also how they behave and act in romantic relationships. For instance, individuals with bipolar disorder experience severe high and low moods,...
Mental health support should be a safe and affirming space for everyone, but for LGBTQ+ individuals, this isn’t always the case. Many have experienced discrimination, misunderstanding, or outright bias in healthcare settings, making it harder to seek help when they need it most. LGBTQ+ affirming...
Home should be a place of safety—but for those affected by domestic violence, it can become a source of fear, confusion, and deep emotional pain. The psychological effects of abuse can last long after physical wounds fade, impacting self-esteem, trust, and a person’s sense of...
Between constant notifications, doomscrolling, and the pressure to stay plugged in, social media takes a toll. While these platforms offer connection and entertainment, they can also lead to anxiety, low self-esteem, and information fatigue. The occasional digital detox—intentionally stepping back from screens—can allow you to...
Have you thought about attending therapy, but were worried about being judged? Maybe you’re picturing a group setting with everyone taking turns, like you’ve seen in movies. It doesn’t have to be that way! Individual therapy allows people to explore emotions, behaviors, and thought patterns...
Supporting your family and friends is a wonderful thing. But if a friend or family member has bipolar disorder, it may be more of a challenge than you initially thought. Educating yourself about the condition, its symptoms, and treatment options—like bipolar therapy—is the first step...
Despite growing awareness, many men still face stigma when it comes to seeking therapy. Cultural messages often suggest that men should “tough it out,” suppress their emotions, or solve problems alone. But emotional resilience isn’t about ignoring struggles; it’s about facing them with courage. Specialised...
Social media is woven into our daily lives, offering a constant source of entertainment and opportunities for instant connection. But while social platforms have their benefits, they also carry risks—especially when used excessively or without awareness. Behind the humorous reel trends and beautifully curated feeds...
Has sex taken over your life? We don’t mean in a good way, either. Maybe you can’t stop thinking about it to the point that inappropriate thoughts run rampant even in public. You know certain behaviors aren’t acceptable, but you find yourself constantly pushing the...
The current global pandemic has caused most people in this country to have to shelter in place for many months. This has caused a lot of stress and strain for families and couples. And, often acute or sudden stress can bring underlying relationship issues to...
You’ve no doubt heard the expression “men are from Mars, women from Venus.” And while we can all point out some major differences between the sexes, typically those differences all start in one major organ – the brain! One of the biggest complaints women tend...
Abuse in relationships often begins as a whisper before growing to a roar. Over time, control, fear, and emotional harm escalate, leaving individuals unsure if what they’re experiencing is abuse. If something feels wrong but you can't quite name it, you may be experiencing a...
Starting individual or couples therapy is a big step toward better mental health. But finding the right personal therapist to accompany you on your self-betterment journey isn’t just about availability—it’s about fit. Asking the right questions at your first appointment can help you feel confident...
Chances are, you were taught about boundaries as a child—things like not touching someone else without permission or giving people space when they’re upset. Personal boundaries are the mental, emotional, and physical limits we set to protect our well-being. They define how we engage in...
When I first started my practice, I remember reading a statistic about divorce that I found shocking. And that was that 40-50% of all marriages ended in divorce. According to recent surveys, however, the divorce rate in the U.S. fell by 18% between 2008 and...
Too many people think couples therapy is only for relationships in crisis. In reality, working with a couples therapist provides benefits for relationships at any stage, such as strengthening communication, learning how to address conflicts, and deepening emotional intimacy. If you’ve ever considered speaking to...
Infidelity can cause immense pain in a relationship. The feelings of betrayal, confusion, anger, and sadness are all-consuming in the moment. For many couples, discovering or admitting infidelity shakes the very core of their relationship and may be the end of many happy (or not-so-happy)...
When our loved ones are struggling and in pain, it can be very difficult to know what to do to help them. Seeing friends and family in an abusive relationship can be particularly challenging. We just “want to wake them up” and have them see...
Infertility is a condition that refers to an inability to become pregnant or to take a baby to term after one year of trying. This is a heartbreaking reality for many women across the globe. In fact, it is estimated that in the United States...
When people desire to be in a relationship, they are not wanting or needing company or someone to do things with. Most people look for that perfect relationship because they want real, true intimacy in their life. But what is intimacy, really? Intimacy is NOT...
Men have taken on a specific role in human development over the span of hundreds of thousands of years. While roles have very recently shifted somewhat, historically speaking, men have been the ones to fight the wars and build society. And if you think about...
Even happy couples can hit obstacles along the way. When this happens, couples can either go it alone and try to work through their issues themselves, or they can seek the guidance of a trained and experienced marriage counsellor. While some couples feel their problems...
Many authors, from Viktor Frankl to Deepak Chopra, have discussed the importance of living a purposeful life. It is purpose that allows us to transcend ourselves and create meaningful moments. Frankl believed that a pursuit in meaning in life is far more important than the...
Home should be a place of safety—but for those affected by domestic violence, it can become a source of fear, confusion, and deep emotional pain. The psychological effects of abuse can last long after physical wounds fade, impacting self-esteem, trust, and a person’s sense of...
People often tend to place more significance on the loss of a romantic relationship than they do on the loss of a friendship. But in many cases, losing a friendship can be more difficult than losing a significant other, especially if the friendship had lasted...
Emotional abuse is not as easy to spot as physical abuse, but oftentimes its effects can be just as traumatic. Emotional abuse can involve a wide range of tactics, including gaslighting, shaming and manipulation. All of these are intended to leave the victim feeling confused,...
When you met your spouse, did it seem like love at first sight? Was there a familiarity to them and a feeling that you were somehow drawn to them? Soon after you said “I do,” did they begin to change? Were they giving you less...
Abuse in relationships often begins as a whisper before growing to a roar. Over time, control, fear, and emotional harm escalate, leaving individuals unsure if what they’re experiencing is abuse. If something feels wrong but you can't quite name it, you may be experiencing a...
Can We Ever Recover from Infidelity? Infidelity is one of the most painful breaches a relationship can suffer. Whether it’s a one-night stand, an emotional affair, or a long-term deception, being cheated on can feel like the ground has shifted beneath your feet. In the...
Maintaining healthy relationships with extended family members—such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and in-laws—can be tough. According to an article published by YouGov, 46% of Americans don’t have any extended family members living in the same city or town as them. Unfortunately,...
Cheating and Infidelity in Relationships: How a Qualified Therapist Can Help You Navigate the Aftermath Infidelity. The word alone can send a chill down the spine. For many, discovering that a partner has cheated is one of the most painful and disorienting experiences imaginable. It...
Do you struggle to maintain a positive relationship with your father, mother, brother, sister, spouse, or child? If so, you’re not alone. Oftentimes, the people closest to us are the ones who know how to push our buttons the most. And conversely, we tend to...
Healthy boundaries are a crucial part of all relationships—they help instill respect, trust, and safety—and work relationships are no exception. In fact, failing to set boundaries at work can cause stress, lead to burnout, and impact your productivity. Unfortunately, with the influx of remote jobs...
As a therapist whose practice focuses on helping people with sexual issues, I can tell you the majority of individuals who contact me for help are men. And over the years, most of these men have suffered from premature ejaculation (PE). While there can be...
When we say the words, “I do,” we never imagine that one day those words will turn into, “It’s over.” But the statistics point to the fact that many marriages do not make it. In fact, the CDC reports that 42% of marriages have a...
We live in a society that rewards those with courage and valor. We are taught from a young age that it’s good to face our fears, for doing so is often the catalyst for powerful and lasting change. And yet, how many of us allow...
How to Convince Your Partner to Go to Couples Therapy Navigating relationship challenges can be difficult, especially when one partner feels ready to seek professional help, and the other does not. If you're considering couples therapy but your partner is hesitant, you're not alone —...
Taming the Flame: How Anger Management Can Transform Your Relationships Anger is a natural human emotion—raw, powerful, and at times, overwhelming. While it often gets a bad reputation, anger in itself isn't inherently negative. It becomes problematic when it goes unchecked, manifesting in ways that...
How Anger Management Can Transform Your Relationships Anger is a natural human emotion—raw, powerful, and at times, overwhelming. While it often gets a bad reputation, anger in itself isn't inherently negative. It becomes problematic when it goes unchecked, manifesting in ways that damage relationships, hinder...
Remember when Ashley Madison, the website that helps people cheat on their spouses, was hacked? As news spread, many of us probably wondered if our own partners would be capable of cheating. A survey by polling company YouGov uncovers some rather startling statistics. When they...
When we first fall in love with that special someone, we want to spend all of our time together. In fact, we seem to feel better when we are with our significant other. This is the infatuation stage, and admittedly, it feels really good. But...
No matter how independent you may be, it’s still important to build healthy relationships with your immediate and extended family members, friends, and coworkers. Research suggests that when we foster connections with those around us, it can: Improve our self-esteem Make us more cooperative, empathetic,...
Films and television shows would have us believe that conceiving a child is the easiest thing in the world. For some this may be true. But for many couples, getting pregnant seems almost impossible. And so we seek the help and guidance from fertility specialists,...
If we’re honest, most of us would admit we look at some form of digital screen more than we do the face of our friends and loved ones. From our phones to iPad, laptops and flatscreen TVs the size of an entire wall, screen time...
There is a very old saying that says, “Don’t cut off your nose to spite your face.” This is a warning to people to not act out in anger or resentment because you only end up harming yourself. Over time, these feelings of resentment can...
Have you limited your communication and interactions with a family member, or stopped them entirely? If so, you’re not alone. According to statistics published by Psychology Today, over 25% of the U.S. population is currently estranged from a family member, and more than 43% have...
The number one ingredient to any healthy and stable relationship is good communication. When communication is poor, relationships break down. Whether they are platonic, romantic or revolve around business, your relationships will thrive if you improve your communication with others. Here’s how: Be Fully Present...
Relationships can enrich our lives, but they can also cause damage. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or significant other, any relationship comes with its share of challenges. And more often than not, putting in the effort to resolve relational issues can and does result...
A relationship requires different things to thrive. Good communication is necessary, as is mutual respect and compromise. But one of the most important aspects of a healthy relationship is a sense of intimacy between each other. While intimacy can be fostered through communication, there is...
Have you recently gone through a divorce, a broken engagement, or a breakup? The loss of a romantic relationship can be especially difficult because we spend so much time with our significant others, so a separation can impact many aspects of our lives and leave...
When infidelity occurs in a relationship, it can be very devastating for the parties involved. Infidelity involves breaking a promise to be completely faithful to your partner, and when it happens, it erases the trust that existed in the relationship. Dealing with infidelity can be...
When you first fell in love, you could never imagine that someday the sound of your partner chewing could make you want to scream. It’s inevitable that once we are out of our honeymoon phase and reality sets in, we realise all relationships take work...
No one ever wants to be on the receiving end of romantic betrayal. The emotional pain of discovering that someone you love and trust has been cheating and lying to you can be overwhelming. When you are the victim of massive deception and betrayal, it...
Discovering that your partner has been unfaithful can feel devastating. On top of the unspeakable pain from the sexual betrayal are the lies they have told – either through words or by their silence. It is common for people to feel completely lost once they...
We all believe we know what narcissism looks like. After all, aren’t a majority of politicians and Hollywood A-listers narcissists, projecting their massive egos onto the world? While that may be true, narcissists come in all shapes and sizes. They walk among us, some of...
These days, many of us find it hard to find the time to have a decent and satisfactory sex life with our partner. We’re either too busy, too tired or too stressed much of the time. While we may not like it, this is pretty...
Narcissistic personality disorder—a mental health condition characterised by an excessive need to feel important and impress others—often causes narcissists to have an inflated sense of self-worth, lack empathy, and fantasise about possessing success, power, intelligence, and beauty. Narcissism differs from self-confidence in that it causes...
Many people throw around the term “narcissist” very casually, using it to describe an individual with high self-esteem rather than one who actually has narcissistic personality disorder. Below, we explain what narcissism is and how it differs from self-confidence. What Is Narcissism? Narcissistic personality disorder...
Experiencing sexual dysfunction can be a challenging and isolating journey, but luckily, therapy offers an effective path toward resolution. Specialised therapy for sexual dysfunction at Alinda Small BPsychSc., MScMedSH in Sydney, NSW, provides individuals and couples with the tools to navigate these issues in a...
Getting married is one of the most significant milestones in life, and while the excitement of planning a wedding can take centre stage, it’s equally important to invest in building a solid foundation for your future together. Premarital counselling is a powerful tool for couples...
“I do.” Two simple enough words. And when you say them on your wedding day, you really mean them. But “I do” can quickly turn into, “I thought I could” when you don’t know exactly who or what you are committing to. Let’s face it,...
You might have heard that happiness is a choice and wondered if that’s actually true. Unfortunately, for some individuals, mental health conditions like depression and bipolar disorder make it difficult for them to feel happy. There can also be several factors outside someone’s control—such as...
Seeking help from a relationship counsellor is not unlike seeking help from a mechanic. It makes little sense to take your car into the shop a month after it started making a horrific noise. By that time, too much damage may have been done and...
You may have heard about the benefits of setting boundaries with family, friends, and coworkers—by communicating your needs and wants, you can boost your self-esteem, prioritize your mental and emotional health, and improve your overall well-being. In the long run, boundaries can also enhance the...
In my time as a Relationship Therapist, there is probably one statement I have heard more than any other, and that is, “I just don’t think I will ever get over this.” This statement is often said by my clients who have recently learned their...
Co-parenting can present obstacles at any time of the year, but it tends to be especially difficult on birthdays, special occasions , and other special celebrations Here are a few tips for how to approach your next big event: Decide on a schedule ahead of...
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a type of mental disorder that can cause excessive movement and make it difficult for someone to focus and control their impulses. For many people, ADHD can also make it hard to stay organised—deadlines are missed, projects are started but not...
Codependency is a term that describes an unhealthy or unbalanced relationship where one person’s needs are met while the others aren’t. Codependent people are said to “enable” the bad behaviour of a loved one by supporting them, no matter if it negatively affects their own...
As young people, we learn to interact with others based on how our family members interact with each other. Once these communication patterns become established in our young minds, it’s hard to change them as adults. This means that any relational patterns that include angry...
Divorce is often one of the most difficult experiences that a person can go through. In many cases, it requires you to leave your family home, lose contact with couple friends, and miss out on time with your children. And it almost always involves losing...
Rumination involves obsessively thinking about negative experiences and feelings. Some people replay events that occurred in the past, while others worry about situations that could potentially occur in the future. Rumination tends to have a snowball effect—certain mental health conditions (including generalized anxiety disorder and...
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that focuses on identifying inaccurate or negative thinking, viewing difficult situations more clearly, and responding to those situations more effectively. CBT can be administered on an individual basis or in a group setting, and in...
If you’ve been researching self-care practices, you may have come across something known as journaling. But what is journaling, exactly, and what can it do to improve your mental, emotional, and even physical health? Journaling, at its core, is the regular practice of writing down...
When we fall in love with our spouses or partners, we never imagine that someday the honeymoon phase might end. We want to believe those Hollywood romantic comedies that make us believe we will “live happily ever after.” The truth is, all couples have their...
Do you have a friend or family member who regularly experiences panic attacks? If so, you may be looking for ways to recognize when these attacks are taking place and offer your support. We’ve got the answers you need below. How to Recognize a Panic...
There’s nothing better than the refreshed feeling you have when you wake up from a restful night of sleep. But did you know that sleep can do much more than just alleviate fatigue? It’s true! Getting a sufficient amount of sleep can: Improve your cardiovascular...
So, you’ve decided that it’s time to set some boundaries in your life. Good for you! Boundaries are essential to maintaining relationships with friends, family members, and coworkers, as they can help build trust and respect. Once you’ve decided what your boundaries are, the next...
Social media offers a number of benefits. It can help us feel more connected to our loved ones, introduce us to like-minded individuals who have similar interests, keep us updated on news and current events, and inspire us to try new things, just to name...
If you’ve gone through a divorce, you’re not alone. According to statistics published by Forbes, about half of first marriages end in divorce, and divorce rates are even higher in second and third marriages. It’s important to not rush back into dating after a divorce....
Same-sex couples, like all couples, may encounter challenges in their relationships. These challenges can range from communication issues and conflicts to intimacy concerns. Fortunately, there's a therapy approach that has proven to be highly effective in helping couples navigate these issues and strengthen their bonds...
Infidelity is a wound that cuts deep, leaving a trail of heartache and shattered trust in its wake. The journey of recovering from an affair is one filled with challenges, but amidst the pain, there is hope for healing and renewal. In this blog, we'll...
Human sexuality is diverse, encompassing a range of desires, preferences, and fantasies. Two terms often used are "kink" and "fetish." While similar, they hold distinct meanings, crucial for understanding sexual expression. Kinks Defined: Kinks are unconventional sexual interests, deviating from societal norms. They include activities...
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common yet often misunderstood condition that affects millions of men worldwide. While physical factors such as age and health play a role, the interplay between ED and psychological factors, particularly anxiety, is profound. In this blog, we delve into the...
Attachment theory, introduced by psychologist John Bowlby, revolutionises our understanding of human connections. In this blog, we explore its key concepts and how they shape healthy relationships. Key Concepts: Attachment Styles: Secure: Trusting and comfortable with intimacy and independence. Anxious-Preoccupied: Craving closeness but fearing rejection....
Going Through A Divorce? Divorce is one of life's toughest challenges, stirring a whirlwind of emotions. In these trying times, divorce counselling emerges as a beacon of support. Let's explore how counselling aids individuals through this tumultuous journey. Understanding Divorce Counselling: Divorce counselling, a specialised...
People often have various questions when it comes to sex therapists. Here are some common things people like to know: Qualifications and Training: People often want to know about the educational background and training of sex therapists. They may inquire about the specific certifications, licenses,...
Relationships are intricate and complex, often filled with both joys and challenges. Whether you've been together for a few months or several decades, it's not uncommon to face difficulties and conflicts. These struggles can be emotionally draining and, if not addressed, may jeopardize the health...
Some of the concerns that lead people to seek the service of a sex therapist are outlined below. 1. Erectile Dysfunction: This is a common issue in men where they have difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection during sexual activity. 2. Premature Ejaculation: Premature ejaculation...
Understanding and Managing Erectile Dysfunction in Men Performance anxiety and erectile dysfunction (ED) can be distressing issues for men, impacting both their physical and emotional well-being. These concerns are more common than you might think, affecting men of all ages. In this blog, we'll delve...
Enhancing Same-Sex Relationships with Gottman Therapy Same-sex couples, like all couples, may encounter challenges in their relationships. These challenges can range from communication issues and conflicts to intimacy concerns. Fortunately, there’s a therapy approach that has proven to be highly effective in helping couples navigate...
What Does A Sex Therapist Actually Do?? Ever wondered what a Sex Therapist does? Below are some of the areas a sex therapist can assist with. Erectile Dysfunction: This is a common issue in men where they have difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection during...
Therapy After Infidelity Infidelity can be a profoundly distressing and emotionally shattering experience for couples. When trust is broken, it may feel like the very foundation of a relationship has deteriorated. However, it’s important to recognise that healing is possible. One valuable resource for couples...
Many of us working from home may be finding that small things that our partner does become increasingly irritating. They chew way too loud, rock on their chair incessantly – have loud conversations interrupt us too often. We know that working and living together can...
One of the signature symptoms of the manic side of bipolar disorder is hypersexuality. 1-What does this actually mean; typical behaviours? Hypersexuality in BPD can be a symptom of the disease. It is when there is a greater focus by individual on sexual activity than...
Romantic love can be characterised by idealisations and positive illusions. Divorce is becoming more prevalent and this may indicate that the love is blind adage is not so simple, that the idealised view is not permanent- or is it for some. Research has shown that...
We can often spend a good deal of our day engaging in daydreaming, and sexual fantasies often fall into that space. But what do we know about our sexual fantasies? Little clinical research to date has been done on sexual fantasies but it appears to...
We are discovering more and more that the increase in technology and social media use- recently coined “technoference” – has had an impact on relationship satisfaction. There is mounting empirical data to support theories that social media has influenced betrayal, as it opens up another...
Studies have shown that if we have high standards in our relationships, then it leads to more happiness over the years- provided you can obtain and meet the standards. The classic Therapists line, where we are told to address our problems -and not avoid them,...