How does one exit a relationship? Exits can start simply, such as staying late at work rather than coming home, or focusing all of one’s energy on the children, or exits can be drastic like an affair. In the case of an affair, does the door always close, or is there a way for a couple to return to a happier, earlier and safe place in their relationship?

When someone feels stuck in old patterns that are self-defeating and self-critical, I use the best of my training and instincts to help them overcome that inner critic and reach for their inherent and authentic core self which is healthy and whole. Sometimes clients who have been filled with self-criticism and self-loathing are not yet able to connect easily to that part of them which is whole and healthy. There are a number of ways out of that dark trap. One simple tool I offer is to take time to reflect on “what I’m doing well” even if that feels difficult and the person mostly wants to take note of everything they didn’t do well or didn’t accomplish. Part of this skill is building the inner capacity to experience oneself in a positive light.

When “talk therapy” is not enough, I use Somatic Imagery and Somatic Experiencing, which is an experiential therapy method that helps access and transform unconscious experiences. Somatic Imagery can help address how trauma and emotional pain gets held in the body.