Building a life together as a same-sex couple

Alex H.

My partner and I have been together for decades, and over that time we’ve lived through many of the dynamics that long-term same-sex couples face: mismatched expectations, evolving ideas of monogamy, different levels of comfort around openness and vulnerability. Our early years were rocky, marked by uncertainty and growth at different paces. But over time, trust took root. Not everything became easy or perfectly aligned, but we learned how to stay in the work — how to stay curious, and to keep showing up for each other even when we didn’t always agree. We’ve also moved through big life questions that don’t always come with a map — like what commitment should look like when no one handed you a script, or how to make decisions about marriage when it wasn’t always legally available, or emotionally accessible. We’ve had conversations about having kids, and wrestled with what it would take — practically, financially, emotionally — to pursue that path. While we didn’t become parents, the process of facing those questions still shaped how we saw ourselves as a couple, and clarified what we were building together. We didn’t land where we are through certainty — but through conversation, through friction, and through letting the relationship evolve without needing it to resemble anyone else’s. If you’re trying to navigate your own version of partnership, wherever you are in the process, I’d be glad to talk.

Starting over and reskilling at any age

Alex H.

I’ve spent much of my adult life in pursuit of a creative career — primarily as an actor — but that journey has often required side paths, pivots, and full-on reinventions to make ends meet or rediscover momentum. Along the way, I’ve tried everything from retail and logistics to graphic design, real estate, web development, and even full-time programming after completing a coding bootcamp. Some of these paths stuck longer than others. Some didn’t go the distance. But each one taught me something about resourcefulness, resilience, and what it means to choose a life on your own terms. At the heart of each shift was the desire to support myself in ways that felt aligned — to earn a living without selling out the core of who I was. That wasn’t always easy. Learning new skills as an adult — especially under financial pressure — takes grit. And while I often carry a deep belief in my ability to learn and adapt, that doesn’t mean the fear of making a wrong move wasn’t real. What’s helped me most is learning to tune into my gut: regularly checking in and asking if where I’m headed still feels like home to me. I’ve come to see that the only real mistake is staying stuck in something that no longer reflects who you are, just because it once did. Perhaps the biggest lesson has come from my forays into real estate investing and entrepreneurship — ventures that reshaped how I relate to money, risk, and possibility. They helped me shed a scarcity mindset and embrace one of potential. I’ve learned not to regret the things that didn’t pan out. Every attempt taught me how to pivot with love instead of fear. And even when circumstances forced my hand, like when a lucrative startup job collapsed beneath me, I found ways to turn disruption into opportunity. Whether or not I always “succeed” in the way I imagined, I’m proud to keep choosing a life that reflects who I am. That’s the kind of success I now measure by.

Trauma experienced by parents

Alice H.

My experience with trauma has changed my life and without recovery, I wouldn’t be the same person that I am today. I learned through my experiences that they don’t define me, and I am much more than my wounds. The specific experiences I’ve gone through include codependency with a codependent mother, narcissistic abuse by a narcissistic father, bullying by misunderstood siblings and people at grade and high school, and physical abuse. With these events, I have learned how to become strong, and I am not afraid to discuss in detail the goals you might have to overcome your personal traumas. Reach out to me today.

Finding your way out of toxic relationships

Amanda P.

Growing up, I always struggled with making and maintaining healthy connections, whether it was with friends, family, or romantic partners. I often felt isolated and lonely, which took a toll on my mental health and led to depression, anxiety, and toxic mindsets that shaped how I saw myself and others. Things began to shift when I started consistently attending therapy, especially Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). It taught me practical skills for emotional regulation, setting boundaries, and understanding my own worth. I also watched people close to me, like my sister, go through harmful relationships, and I became someone they leaned on for support. It wasn’t always easy, but helping others through their healing helped me heal, too. Today, I’m proud of the deep connections I’ve built and the life I’ve created. I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel when you're stuck in unhealthy relationships, but I also know there’s a way out—and I’d love to help you find it.

Living with mindfulness and worth

Ambika M.

Through years of mental rewiring, I practice mindful living. This comes with the often loud voice of self-awareness, as well as presence and acceptance. Mindfulness is the difference between mindlessly binge watching tv that harms your sleep to numb against upset, versus enjoying one cookie. And I obviously still struggle! Acceptance also involves loving your true self and knowing your worth. I'd love to share tips and challenges as we go on a mindful journey together.

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.

Moving from self-doubt to self-belief with confidence

Angela V.

I’ve had seasons where my confidence felt unshakable—and others where it felt like it disappeared overnight. I’ve questioned my worth in rooms I had every right to be in. I’ve second-guessed myself after rejection, after mistakes, after silence that left me wondering if I was enough. What I’ve learned is this: confidence isn’t about being perfect or fearless. It’s about trusting yourself anyway. It’s about showing up, even when your voice shakes. It’s built through small, brave choices—and yes, sometimes it's borrowed from someone who sees your light when you forget how to find it. I’ve had people reflect back to me a version of myself I couldn’t yet believe in. That changed everything. Now, I love holding up the mirror for others, helping them remember what makes them powerful, resilient, and worthy—especially when life, trauma, or doubt has clouded that truth. If you’re struggling to believe in yourself right now, let’s talk. Not with toxic positivity or surface-level hype—but with real, honest encouragement that’s rooted in who you already are.

Getting unstuck from “what’s next?” moments

Angela V.

I’ve hit the 'stuck' phase more than once—feeling like I was spinning my wheels, craving change, but unsure what direction to go. I used to think I needed to have a five-year plan or a perfectly clear vision before I could make a move. Turns out, I just needed to start asking better questions and be willing to take small, brave steps. Through journaling, coaching, reflection, and trial-and-error, I learned how to listen to my inner voice instead of outside noise. I got clear on my values and how I wanted to feel in my next chapter—not just what title I wanted. If you’re feeling restless, unsure, or stuck at a crossroads, I’d love to help you sort through the noise and get back to clarity.

Rebuilding your life after a natural disaster

Angela V.

When a Category 5 hurricane hit Florida, I lost everything I owned. In just one day, my home, my belongings, and my sense of stability were all gone. What followed were months of uncertainty, moving through 11 different living situations before I found somewhere that felt even remotely safe again. It was disorienting and humbling. I didn’t have a roadmap, only the belief that I had made it this far in life, rising from a small town in West Virginia with no college degree to leading teams, and that I could keep going. The emotional weight of that loss lingered long after the winds died down. Over time, I rebuilt not just my home, but myself. I learned to trust the process, to find peace in instability, and to let creativity, like poetry, help me release what I was holding. Now, I create space for others to explore their own recovery after loss: whether it's through conversation or writing, I offer a judgment-free zone to unpack what it really feels like to start over.

Reinventing yourself and mastering your reality after addiction

Angelo F.

There came a point in my healing where I knew I couldn’t just go back to who I used to be. I had outgrown that version of myself—the one who survived by numbing out, by hiding, by staying small. Recovery gave me something I never expected: the freedom to reinvent myself. For years, I had defined myself by pain, addiction, and anxiety. But beneath it all was a deeper truth: I was powerful, creative, intuitive, and worthy of an incredible life. I just had to remember who I really was—and start building a new reality from that place. Through deep inner work, forgiveness, spiritual practices, and tools like therapeutic art, nature healing, and mindset coaching, I began designing a life in flow with my values, gifts, and passions. I stopped chasing external validation and started living from alignment. It wasn’t about “fixing” myself—it was about becoming myself. Now I help others reclaim their identity and become the architect of a new life—one rooted in joy, purpose, and authenticity.

Realizing alcohol was quietly ruining my life

Brian L.

For most of my life, drinking felt normal, almost expected. I started in high school to fit in, and over time, alcohol became part of how I handled everything: celebrations, stress, boredom, even sadness. On the surface, things looked good. I had a career, friends, and stayed busy. But beneath all of that, alcohol was slowly chipping away at my happiness, my relationships, and my mental health. I dealt with regular anxiety, depression, run-ins with the law, and a growing sense of emptiness I couldn’t ignore. The worst part was how easy it was to justify because so many people around me were doing the same thing. It wasn’t until I really took a hard look at how I felt day-to-day — mentally, emotionally, physically — that I realized alcohol was not harmless. It was holding me back from being the person, partner, and future parent I wanted to be. Choosing sobriety wasn’t easy, but it was the best decision I’ve ever made. If you’re questioning your relationship with alcohol, you’re not alone and it’s never too late to take back your life.

Navigating depression while living at home in your 20s

Brianna E.

I’m in my 20s, living at home while I work on my graduate degree online. It hasn’t always been easy—especially managing depression and anxiety in a household that sometimes lacks emotional understanding. I’ve struggled with feeling lonely, unappreciated, and misunderstood, particularly with family members who show narcissistic tendencies. I’ve also had to balance chronic health conditions and ADHD, which can make even basic tasks feel overwhelming. I used to be more socially active, but over time I’ve learned that low-maintenance friendships and solo travel once a year work best for my energy. I’ve stopped drinking for health reasons, which made me feel more in control but also a little left out at times. Journaling, music therapy, and meditation have become essential tools in my healing. Therapy and medication helped too, but so did learning to truly be on my own side. Living at home as a young adult with mental health struggles can feel like being stuck—but I’ve found ways to move forward, even from within the same walls. If that sounds like what you're going through, I’d love to talk.

Starting over when life shifts

Calvin N.

There have been times in my life where the path I was on either crumbled or no longer felt aligned—whether it was stepping away from school, changing career paths, or reimagining my dreams. Starting over can be terrifying, but I’ve learned that it’s also an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. I leaned on therapy, reflection, and community to help me push through fear and find new clarity each time I pivoted. Now, I’m passionate about helping others navigate the unknown with confidence and grace.

Healing from controlling relationships and rebuilding trust

Carrie D.

My first marriage was with someone who had strong narcissistic tendencies and a need for control. I spent years feeling isolated, questioning my worth, and struggling to maintain my independence. Eventually, I found the strength to leave, but the emotional scars stayed with me. I met my second husband not long after, and although he was everything my ex wasn’t—kind, patient, and supportive—I still had to work through deep-seated fears and mistrust. Therapy played a huge role in helping me recognize the trauma patterns and rebuild a healthier, more open way of loving and trusting someone again. We even spent some time living apart during our marriage to give me the space I needed to heal and reconnect with myself. Now, after 15 years together, I can say that true healing is possible, and relationships after trauma can thrive. I would love to support others navigating the hard, but hopeful, path to trust and healthy connection again.

Healing from controlling relationships and rebuilding trust

Carrie D.

My first marriage was with someone who had strong narcissistic tendencies and a need for control. I spent years feeling isolated, questioning my worth, and struggling to maintain my independence. Eventually, I found the strength to leave, but the emotional scars stayed with me. I met my second husband not long after, and although he was everything my ex wasn’t—kind, patient, and supportive—I still had to work through deep-seated fears and mistrust. Therapy played a huge role in helping me recognize the trauma patterns and rebuild a healthier, more open way of loving and trusting someone again. We even spent some time living apart during our marriage to give me the space I needed to heal and reconnect with myself. Now, after 15 years together, I can say that true healing is possible, and relationships after trauma can thrive. I would love to support others navigating the hard, but hopeful, path to trust and healthy connection again.

Navigating single parenting after a divorce

Carrie M.

After my divorce, I found myself thrown into the deep end of single parenting. At first, I felt completely overwhelmed. My son was young, and I was trying to balance working, managing the household, and figuring out how to provide emotional stability for both of us. I didn’t always have the answers and often felt exhausted. One of the hardest things was adjusting to the silence in the house after the divorce—no more shared responsibilities or support. It was up to me to create the structure and calm that we needed. Over time, I learned how to communicate my needs more clearly, set boundaries, and prioritize self-care. I realized that I couldn’t pour from an empty cup, and that it was okay to ask for help and lean on my friends and family when I needed it. Now, after five years, I’ve become much more grounded in my role as a single mom. I’m no longer just surviving; I’m thriving, and I want to help others who are walking the same path.

Overcoming relationship betrayal and finding peace within yourself

Christine D.

I’ve spent the last 30 years navigating difficult relationships, each leaving a lasting impression on me. I’ve been betrayed, broken down, and lost myself in the process, but I’ve learned to redefine what it means to “overcome.” It’s not about going back to what things were before—it’s about setting boundaries and finding peace within yourself, even when the relationships around you are complicated. I’ve had many opportunities to help others, like my cousin who was in a seven-year relationship where her partner’s porn addiction and cruel comments about her body took a toll on her. We didn’t facilitate the breakup, but we talked about the unhealthy patterns and helped her realize that she deserved more than what she was accepting. The best thing I did for her was offer a neutral, caring ear and helped her see a bigger picture—one where she wasn’t stuck. I’ve been through it myself, and I know that when you’re going through emotional abuse or trust issues, sometimes it feels like you’re trapped in a tunnel with no way out. But there’s always another perspective waiting to be explored, and I want to help you find yours.

Overcoming relationship betrayal and finding peace within yourself

Christine D.

I’ve spent the last 30 years navigating difficult relationships, each leaving a lasting impression on me. I’ve been betrayed, broken down, and lost myself in the process, but I’ve learned to redefine what it means to “overcome.” It’s not about going back to what things were before—it’s about setting boundaries and finding peace within yourself, even when the relationships around you are complicated. I’ve had many opportunities to help others, like my cousin who was in a seven-year relationship where her partner’s porn addiction and cruel comments about her body took a toll on her. We didn’t facilitate the breakup, but we talked about the unhealthy patterns and helped her realize that she deserved more than what she was accepting. The best thing I did for her was offer a neutral, caring ear and helped her see a bigger picture—one where she wasn’t stuck. I’ve been through it myself, and I know that when you’re going through emotional abuse or trust issues, sometimes it feels like you’re trapped in a tunnel with no way out. But there’s always another perspective waiting to be explored, and I want to help you find yours.

Finding real recovery after long-term heroin and fentanyl use

Clayton J.

For 15 years, I lived in active addiction, using heroin and fentanyl from the time I was 14. Despite multiple attempts to get clean, I never truly committed to recovery. I’d use up resources and burn bridges, but nothing ever stuck. I didn’t know how to make recovery real, and I was just going through the motions of life. It wasn’t until I made the decision to actually want to live, to find meaning in my life, that everything started to change. Recovery became possible for me when I realized it wasn’t just about stopping my drug use, it was about finding a deeper purpose. In February 2022, I celebrated three years in recovery. I now live with intention and purpose, and every day I make the choice to stay sober because I believe in the life I’m building. I’ve found fulfillment in helping others as a Certified Peer Specialist, guiding them to see that recovery is not just about quitting, it’s about choosing to live with meaning. I truly believe that when you decide to embrace life fully, recovery becomes not only possible but worth everything.

Healing and gaining self worth after complicated relationships

Craig T.

A few years ago, I found myself in a relationship that wasn’t healthy. There was a lot of emotional imbalance, and I was carrying the weight of anxiety, phobias, and a deep sense of not being seen. When it ended, especially in the isolation of COVID, it hit me hard. I didn’t just lose the relationship—I lost my emotional footing. Therapy became my safe place and my mirror. Over the course of a year, I dug deep, faced parts of myself I used to hide from, and grew into someone I barely recognized in the best way possible. Alongside that healing came clarity, self-worth, and a renewed sense of empathy—not just for others, but finally for myself too.