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One of the reasons attachment wounds can feel so difficult to change is that they don't stay contained to childhood. They quietly shape the way we live. Over time, these coping strategies become automatic. It can feel like "this is just who I am". Not so!

Wondering whether you're experiencing trauma, ADHD, anxiety, autism or something else? Learn why mental health symptoms often overlap and how a comprehensive assessment can provide clarity.

Therapy often creates change in quiet, subtle ways before anything feels different on the surface. You may still experience anxiety or sadness yet respond to it with more awareness or self compassion. Sometimes people feel worse before they feel better, especially when exploring through childhood trauma therapy or complex trauma therapy, because parts of the system that have been protective for a long time are finally being seen. Progress can look like understanding your inte

Anger doesn’t have the best reputation.It’s often seen as something to fix, hide, or manage. But what if anger isn’t the enemy? What if it’s actually a messenger trying to show you something that needs attention, care, or healing? At Making Space Psychotherapy we often meet people who feel weighed down by anger. Sometimes it explodes outward and creates disconnection in relationships. Other times, it turns inward showing up as self-criticism, burnout, or that quiet ache of re

Betrayal trauma doesn’t just break your heart. It breaks your sense of reality. Whether it happens in a family, friendship or workplace, betrayal and gaslighting can leave you wondering, Who can I trust? What is real? Healing begins when you no longer have to question whether what you experienced was real.

Straight talk from a trauma + relationship therapist who sees actual real humans in Hamilton, Burlington, and beyond... Let’s be honest, therapy is weird. Beautiful! Transformative! Sacred! But also…weird. You go into a room (or a screen), spill your guts to someone who nods kindly and says things like “hmm” and asks “where are you feeling that right now?” and then you leave. You might find yourself wondering: “Does she think about me after I leave?” "Is she secretly tired o

When it comes to making good decisions, especially in leadership roles, we are often told to be logical, strategic and rational. And while those skills absolutely matter, they are only part of the picture. What about the knots in your stomach before a meeting? The tension that spikes between your shoulder blades when someone is avoiding responsibility? Or the warmth and calm you feel when a team member shows true collaboration and integrity? That inner compass - those sensati

Can your relationship survive infidelity? It depends! You may be surprised by what is possible.

Anxiety, much like anger, sadness, and other natural human emotions, is often pathologized. It is frequently labeled as a "negative" or "bad" emotion—something to be suppressed, eradicated, or overcome. Even the language surrounding it, such as "Panic Disorder" or "Generalized Anxiety Disorder," reinforces the perception that anxiety is inherently problematic. This framing can shape our relationship with anxiety in a way that fosters self-judgment and frustration. Many people

In the realm of relationships, communication and trust are the cornerstones of a healthy partnership. However, there are instances where one partner may manipulate the other's perception of reality, leading to a phenomenon known as relationship gaslighting. This behavior can have profound emotional consequences and undermine the very foundation of a loving relationship. Recognizing Gaslighting in a Relationship Gaslighting in a relationship involves one person's systematic ef

In Ontario, Canada, seeking mental health support can sometimes feel like navigating a maze of titles and qualifications. Among the various professionals available, Registered Psychotherapists (RPs), Registered Social Workers (RSWs), and Registered Psychologists (RPsych) stand out as key figures in providing therapeutic services. While each plays a vital role, understanding the distinctions between them can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their mental hea

Healing from complex trauma demands careful consideration of therapeutic approaches tailored to individual needs and preferences. Among the arsenal of effective therapies stand out Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). These methodologies offer distinct pathways to recovery, each with its own strengths and applications. Let's delve into the nuances of each to help you discern which might be

In the bustling city of Hamilton, Ontario, amidst the daily grind and urban hustle, lies a beacon of hope and healing: psychotherapy. While the term might evoke images of couches and deep introspection, the reality is far more profound. Psychotherapy offers a plethora of benefits for individuals navigating life’s complexities in Hamilton and beyond. From processing a traumatic past to managing stress to improving relationships, its impact reverberates throughout the community

In the intricate web of mental health treatments, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) has emerged as a beacon of hope for individuals grappling with the debilitating effects of trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This innovative therapy has garnered attention for its remarkable efficacy in alleviating trauma-related symptoms and fostering profound healing. Let's delve into the essence of EMDR therapy, exploring its mechanisms, benefits, and why

Understanding Childhood Abuse Trauma: Childhood abuse encompasses various forms of maltreatment, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect. These experiences can profoundly shape an individual’s sense of self, relationships, and overall well-being, often leading to deep-seated emotional wounds and maladaptive coping mechanisms. Survivors of childhood abuse commonly experience a myriad of psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, PTSD,

Introduction Anxiety is a common feeling we all experience at times. While it might seem like a negative emotion, therapies like Somatic Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) show us that anxiety can be helpful information from our body. These therapies help people cope with stress, trauma, and emotional challenges. Anxiety as Helpful Info Anxiety is like a message from our body, telling us that something might be difficult or dangerous

Traumatic experiences can be stored in our bodies and change the way we engage with ourselves and with others. I often hear clients talk...