Relationships

The relationships we have been exposed to, particularly growing up, will have impacted the way we have learned to connect with others, and how we communicate our thoughts and feelings.

Our experiences can determine how we get along with friends, family, romantic partners, work colleagues and those we encounter in our every day lives.

Difficulties can arise when:

• we are sensitive, and find it hard not to take things personally

• we are afraid of, and struggle with, being alone

• we fear rejection or abandonment

• we feel envious or jealous, or find it difficult to trust

• we have been expected to be strong, successful and to cope on our own

• we are highly critical and judgmental of ourselves

• we always believe that we are right and have to win arguments

• we dislike to, or are unable to show our feelings, or to say what we are thinking

• we fear upset and conflict, or think that it is impolite to disagree

• we feel depressed or stuck

• we are grieving

Even being aware of familiar issues, does not prevent us from carrying on in ways that can negatively affect our relationships and cause distress.

I can help you to think about what is going on and, by gently talking through your experiences with me, I can support you as you make sense of your behaviour and reactions.

Also, without knowing it, you might behave with me in a way that reveals some of your relating habits. I will let you know what I notice and how I experience you, as it might be something that is occurring in all your relationships, and not just the one you build with me.

With time and awareness you may be able to bring change to the way you feel in your relationships and, in turn, how you connect with others, potentially leading to more healthy, meaningful experiences.