Healing from anger issues

Celeste G.

I didn’t really realize that I had anger issues until I got married and had kids. Then I discovered that when my husband and I had arguments, I couldn’t let things go and would feel so wounded by him wanting to retreat from an argument that I would explode. This looked like being verbally abusive, and even throwing things or hitting him. I would feel so ashamed afterwards and apologize profusely. I desperately wanted to change. I eventually went to see a counselor and talked through different ways to communicate with my husband, and because I valued the relationship so deeply I managed to stop exploding with him. Unfortunately, this meant that a lot of anger was then directed at my kids. After years of struggling to manage my anger, I finally realized the need for a deep healing journey, to uncover the unconscious roots that were underneath the explosive rage. In the process I became very good at identifying my feelings underneath the anger, since anger is a secondary emotion. Knowing what those underlying feelings are has been very helpful for me, along with what my triggers are. I have also discovered some healthy ways to vent anger that don’t hurt other people that I could share with you. Today I still experience anger sometimes, everyone does, but it no longer controls my life and I don’t see it as an awful thing that I have to avoid or hold in until I just can’t anymore. Instead, it can be an indication of where I still need some healing, or a healthy emotion that I feel when someone hurts me that I can release or confidently express without doing damage.

Supporting a loved one through family estrangement

Aditya R.

A few years ago, my family went through a tough chapter. Right before the pandemic, my brother had a falling out with my mom and they became estranged for four years. It was painful for her to be cut off, especially from her grandchildren, and I could see how much it affected her emotionally. At first, I tried to fix it—I felt like I had to patch everything up. That didn’t work. I eventually realized I couldn’t control the situation, but I could be a steady presence for both of them. I helped my mom find other ways to stay connected with joy—encouraging her to stay active, find new outlets, and reflect honestly on how things got to where they were. I also gently guided her toward being open to hard, vulnerable conversations that could slowly open the door to healing. Over time, the ice began to thaw. While the relationship isn’t what it once was, they’re talking again, and there’s genuine progress. That experience showed me just how complicated—but possible—reconnection can be. And I’d love to be a sounding board for anyone trying to support a loved one through estrangement. It’s never a straight path, but you don’t have to walk it alone.

Surviving the emotional fallout after discovering your partner’s affair

Alex H.

I’ve been married for over a decade, but my partner and I have been together for more than 20 years. Therapy has been a huge help in improving our communication and navigating tough times. I also helped a close friend through a painful moment when they discovered their partner’s emotional affair. It was a shock for them, feeling like they weren’t enough, and they were ready to walk away. I encouraged them to take a step back, process their emotions, and focus on what they needed in the relationship. Through open conversations, they were able to understand that the affair was a symptom of deeper issues, not a reflection of their worth. Eventually, they chose to rebuild their trust and work through it together. They’re in a stronger place now.

Navigating multicultural marriage

Alice Y.

I’ve always been independent, doing things my own way, but when I entered my multicultural marriage, I quickly learned that navigating different cultural backgrounds required me to adapt and grow. Growing up in Florida and living in places like Chicago and Alameda, I’m no stranger to change, but merging two distinct cultures in a relationship has been a unique journey. Every day brings new challenges, from understanding each other’s traditions and customs to finding common ground on how we communicate and approach conflict. There are moments of tension when we don’t see eye to eye, but we’ve learned to embrace our differences and use them as opportunities to learn and grow together. Over time, I’ve become more attuned to the nuances of our relationship, and I now approach each situation with patience, empathy, and a willingness to find creative solutions. What I’ve realized is that, while our cultures may shape us in different ways, our shared values and love for each other are what truly bind us. Through my own experience, I’ve gained valuable insights that I love to share with others in similar relationships—helping them navigate the complexities of cultural differences while building a deeper, more fulfilling connection with their partners.

Finding sobriety after losing yourself to alcohol

Amber H.

I started drinking when I was 12, sneaking shots with friends and laughing like we were invincible. But even then, I was chasing more than just a buzz—I was trying to escape. Drinking made the chaos at home fade, so I kept chasing that numbness until it became all I knew. I partied through middle and high school, surrounded myself with people who could help me stay intoxicated, and ignored every warning sign. I experienced some of the darkest moments of my life while drunk, including being raped and repeatedly taken advantage of while too intoxicated to defend myself. I carried that pain for decades, burying it under more alcohol, more drugs. When I was 32, I lost custody of my children because I couldn’t stay sober. That shattered me—but it also woke me up. I went to jail, then rehab, and then straight into therapy. I did the work—every raw, painful step of it. I fought to be the parent my kids deserved, to be the woman I didn’t think I was capable of becoming. I’ve been sober since October 2021. Now, I help others because I know how terrifying and lonely that first step can be. I’m here to walk beside you, without judgment, because I’ve been there and I remember how it feels.

Self advocacy

Amber H.

For a long time, I was told how to feel, how to dress, how any original idea I had was wrong. I got programmed into believing that I didn’t know what was best for me and that I sounded ignorant whenever I tried to voice my opinion. When I finally broke free of the toxicity of that relationship, I found it difficult to express myself to doctors and therapists, even friends and family, because I was so full of self doubt. I couldn’t even order food at a restaurant because it filled me with crippling anxiety. Finding my own voice has been challenging and not without setbacks. My first step in advocating for myself was learning that most people are forgiving and supportive when they are given the opportunity to be. This has helped me to gain the confidence I needed to be able to ask for help, let the person know what kind of help I do need and, most importantly, what I’d like to order from the menu:)

Finding your voice that's been silenced by a toxic partner

Amethyst F.

Growing up, I found myself taking care of my parents more than they took care of me, as they struggled with mental health and substance use. That early reversal of roles shaped many of my future relationships, sometimes leaving me vulnerable to manipulation and abuse. One of the hardest experiences was being in an open relationship with a narcissistic partner, where I tried to support another woman he was also involved with. Even as I was being triangulated against, I worked to uplift her voice and plant seeds of strength. Years later, when she faced the same patterns and needed to escape with her child, she reached out to me, and we were able to walk that road of healing together. My journey through complex PTSD, depression, anxiety, and heartbreak has taught me how important it is to have someone who listens without judgment. I would be honored to offer that space for you, wherever you are on your path.

Prioritizing your self-care practices for mental wellness and balance

Angela V.

I’ve often been the person who put everyone else’s needs ahead of my own. For years, I ran on empty, believing that if I didn’t show up for others, I was failing them. But I learned the hard way that you can’t pour from an empty cup. I burned out, lost my sense of self, and forgot what it felt like to truly nourish myself. It took time to recognize that self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Taking time for myself doesn’t make me selfish; it makes me whole. I began learning how to set boundaries, how to say no without guilt, and how to listen to my own needs with love and respect. Now, I’m committed to helping others reclaim their well-being, create space for rest, and understand that caring for yourself isn’t a one-time act—it’s a continuous practice. If you’re feeling drained, overwhelmed, or disconnected from your inner peace, let’s explore what self-care could look like for you

Communicating in relationships as a neurodivergent person

Blue H.

As a late-realized autistic woman, communication has always been challenging for me, but things became especially difficult when I started working with a caregiver who had a significant language and cultural barrier. It often felt like we were speaking different languages, and I struggled to express my needs clearly. I found myself repeating myself, feeling misunderstood, and growing frustrated. The emotional toll of this was draining, and I started to feel isolated, as if I couldn’t truly connect with someone who was supposed to help me. Over time, I learned that effective communication wasn’t just about speaking clearly—it was about listening, understanding the other person’s perspective, and finding common ground. I had to be patient with both her and myself, and we developed strategies that made it easier to connect. This process wasn’t without its challenges, but it helped me realize that even when it feels like communication is impossible, there are ways to make it work. I now want to offer the same support to others who might be facing similar struggles, whether it’s with a caregiver, family member, or colleague. I’ve been through it, and I know how isolating it can feel. I can help others navigate these communication barriers, offering strategies and a listening ear to make those relationships stronger and more understanding.

Navigating co-parenting after a breakup or divorce

Calvin N.

Co-parenting after a breakup was one of the hardest things I’ve had to learn. I battled through high-conflict situations, emotional wounds, court battles, and the heartbreak of seeing my kids caught in the middle. Even after winning legal rights, I faced emotional setbacks like parental alienation and had to learn how to stay grounded while protecting my peace. Over time, I built healthier boundaries, kept the focus on my kids’ well-being, and learned when to step back from battles that drained me. I now support other parents who are navigating the complex, emotional road of co-parenting—especially when the relationship with your ex feels toxic or overwhelming.

Navigating family resentment and emotional boundaries after immigration

Carine M.

When I first immigrated from Haiti about 15 years ago, the emotional distance from my family was overwhelming. The resentment from them for me leaving was heavy, and I felt like I was being torn between my own life and the expectations they had for me to stay connected in the same way we always had. It took me years to figure out how to set emotional boundaries—balancing the love I have for my family with the need to prioritize my own growth. The guilt of not being physically present and the cultural pressure to keep close ties while being far away really took a toll on me. Over time, I learned how to communicate more effectively with my family, showing them respect while protecting my emotional space. I also gained the courage to teach others, like my friends, how to do the same. One of my closest friends was struggling with a difficult relationship with her sister-in-law—someone who overstepped boundaries in a major way. I guided her through the process of asserting her limits and expressing her feelings, even though the situation didn’t have the happy resolution she had hoped for. She walked away with more confidence in herself and her ability to protect her emotional wellbeing. This journey of learning to communicate boundaries, even with family, has made me someone people come to for support. I want to help others who are navigating the emotional complexities of family relationships, especially when there’s distance—whether physical or emotional.

Job interview preparation

Carrie M.

I used to dread job interviews more than anything else in my career. My palms would sweat, my mind would go blank, and I'd walk out of interviews knowing I hadn't shown my best self. I'd replay every stumbled answer and awkward pause for days afterward. Despite having solid experience and qualifications, I felt like I was failing at the one thing that mattered most—actually getting the job. The breakthrough came when I realized that interviewing is a skill you can develop, not just a talent you're born with. I started treating interviews like conversations rather than interrogations. I learned to prepare stories that showcased my experience, developed techniques to manage my nerves, and discovered how to turn my anxiety into focused energy. Most importantly, I figured out how to be authentically myself while still being professional and polished. Through multiple interviews across different industries and roles, I've learned what actually works—and what doesn't. I've experienced everything from panel interviews to video calls to informal coffee chats, and each taught me something new about connecting with interviewers and presenting my value. Now I walk into interviews feeling prepared and confident, knowing I can handle whatever comes my way. If you're dreading your next interview or feeling like you're not showing up as your best self, I've been exactly where you are.

Navigating the end of a long-term relationship

Christan Z.

In my early 30s, I found myself in a six-year relationship that I thought was forever. But when it ended, I was left feeling like I had lost a piece of myself. It was a hard pill to swallow because I couldn’t understand why it ended or what went wrong. Initially, I thought I’d never get past the pain, but over time, I learned that there are often more gray areas than we think, especially when it comes to relationships. I dove into self-care and focused on understanding myself more. Slowly, I came to realize that this breakup wasn’t the end of my story—it was an opportunity for personal growth. I also understood that relationships are complicated, and the black-and-white thinking I had been holding onto wasn’t serving me. By giving myself space to heal and embracing the complexity of the situation, I came out of it stronger and more self-aware. I want to be here for anyone else navigating the painful but transformative experience of letting go of someone you thought you’d be with forever.

Establishing and upholding your boundaries

Daneeta S.

I have both personal and professional experience with establishing boundaries. Personally, I have learned the difference between boundaries, desires and demands, and the benefits of establishing and upholding my personal boundaries. As a life coach I have been granted the opportunity to help others to recognize the same. I find boundaries to be important to well-being, and gaining a true understanding of what boundaries are, as well as what they are not, as crucial to the process. You are your own person, therefore your boundaries should be your own, for you, and contribute to your personal growth and wellness. I would love to help you in cultivating your own beneficial boundaries.

Navigating challenges with parenting a teenager

Daniel M.

Parenting a teenager has definitely been an experience filled with challenges. My 13-year-old has faced a variety of emotional struggles, from difficulties with school to navigating their own identity and personal struggles. As a parent, I’ve had to learn how to balance being supportive while also setting boundaries. On top of that, I’ve personally struggled with anxiety and depression, which at times has made it harder to connect and understand what my teen is going through. As a therapist with over 20 years of experience, I’ve worked with over a thousand teenagers, many of whom have dealt with addiction, school issues, and the pressures of growing up. In one instance, a mother reached out to me about her daughter who wasn’t engaging with therapy or any emotional support. We talked through her options and, ultimately, I helped her find a way to stay consistent with boundaries while remaining understanding of her daughter’s perspective. The daughter was resistant at first, but with ongoing support, she eventually started engaging in the program.

Helpful tools to handle complex situations at work

Dawne R.

For years, I worked in the corporate world and held a variety of other positions within my community as well. Over time, I was able to learn how to deal with a multitude of personality types, and can help you navigate complicated situations and varying communication skills.

Navigating jealousy and trust in open/polyamorous relationships

Egan M.

Navigating jealousy and trust has been a major part of my journey in relationships, especially in my current open/polyamorous partnership. I’ve been with my partner for almost five years, and while we’re incredibly happy and engaged, our relationship has required ongoing communication, trust-building, and managing difficult emotions. Early on, I struggled with jealousy, an emotion I hadn’t anticipated in an open relationship. There were moments of insecurity, uncertainty, and fear of losing my partner to someone else. But over time, I learned that jealousy isn’t something to avoid; it’s an emotion to understand and work through. I discovered the importance of setting clear boundaries, checking in regularly with my partner, and being honest with myself about what I needed. These conversations haven’t always been easy, but they’ve strengthened our bond and deepened our trust. I also helped a friend navigate jealousy in her own polyamorous relationship, which gave me even more insight into how to handle these challenges. If you're struggling with jealousy or trust in your open relationship, I’d love to share what’s worked for me and help you navigate these complex feelings with empathy and understanding.

Loving and having a romantic partnership with someone who is incarcerated

Iam E.

As someone who has been in a romantic partnership with a person who is incarcerated, I understsnd the unique set of challenges and emotions that come with this experience. The separation, the communication barriers, and the societal stigma can create an immense strain on both partners and the relationship itself. It's a difficult journey, but you don't have to figure it out all on your own. Together, we'll explore ways to communicate effectively, maintain emotional connection, and care for your mental well-being during these challenging times.

Navigating relationship challenges and finding your voice

Jake A.

I’ve lived through a lot of relationship changes in my life—two divorces, co-parenting my son, exploring non-traditional relationship structures, and learning how to show up authentically through it all. Over the years, I’ve learned that no two relationships look the same, and that communication is the key to creating something healthy, whether it’s with a romantic partner, a co-parent, or even yourself. I’ve also built and run my own business, traveled the world, and formed meaningful connections with people from all kinds of backgrounds, which has shaped how I approach relationships and life in general. After a lot of reflection and growth, I’ve realized that sometimes the biggest roadblocks aren’t the obvious ones—they’re the deeper patterns we carry from childhood or past relationships. Now, I use everything I’ve learned to help others navigate difficult conversations, break through emotional blocks, and feel more confident expressing their needs. If you need a space to vent or want to explore solutions, I’m here.

Navigating relationships after heartbreak

Jamie G.

Growing up with a single dad, I learned early on that relationships are complicated. My relationship with him was difficult at times, but as I grew older, I learned to approach it with empathy. I realized he did the best he could with the tools he had. This understanding helped me heal from some of my own past wounds, and I began to approach my relationships with more openness and compassion. My journey took another turn when the person I thought I would spend my life with ended our relationship. It was a painful loss, and I had to rebuild from scratch, reevaluating my life and what I wanted in relationships. The heartbreak forced me to dig deep into my own emotional resilience and find ways to heal. Through these experiences, I learned that true healing comes from within. By practicing empathy, open communication, and forgiveness—both with others and myself—I’ve been able to transform the way I approach all relationships, romantic or otherwise. Now, I use these lessons to support others who may be navigating their own challenges in love and life. Healing is a process.