Why Is It So Hard to Feel Proud of Yourself? A Reflection on Self-Worth and Self-Compassion
Today, I received my BACP accreditation. On the surface, it's a professional milestone, recognising the knowledge, experience, and commitment I've developed over the years. But as I sat with the news, I realised that what I was feeling wasn't simply happiness or relief. It was pride. And if I'm honest, that feeling surprised me. Not […]
When Childhood Still Shapes Adult Life. Why early experiences can influence our relationships, confidence and emotional wellbeing.
When we hear the word trauma, we often think of major life events such as abuse, violence or a serious accident. These experiences can undoubtedly have a profound impact on a person's emotional well-being. Our understanding of trauma has grown over the years. We now recognise that our emotional well-being can be shaped not only […]
Why Do I Feel Anxious When I’m Supposed to Be Relaxing?
Have you ever found yourself looking forward to a day off, an evening with nothing planned, or a long-awaited holiday, only to realise that instead of feeling calm, you feel… anxious?
Anxiety can feel confusing, especially when it seems to be there without a clear reason. For some people, it builds gradually over time. For others, it appears quite suddenly, almost as if nothing has changed, yet internally everything feels different. You might notice racing thoughts, a tight chest, shallow breathing, restlessness, irritability, or a sense […]
Feeling Lost in Midlife? Navigating Burnout, Life Changes, and Emotional Overwhelm
Midlife can bring unexpected emotional challenges, from burnout and feeling stuck, to children leaving home, ageing parents, and questions around identity and purpose. This blog explores the emotional impact of life transitions, why this stage of life can feel overwhelming, and how counselling can provide space for reflection, support, and self-understanding during times of change.