Assertiveness in Relationships Case Study
John comes to me seeking psychotherapy to help with depression and relationship issues. He says that he is no longer getting on with Sarah, they bicker all the time, and can’t seem to have a conversation without it turning into an argument.
Why Fighting Your Thoughts and Feelings Can Make Them Stronger
Thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are not equally under our control. While our actions are often something we can choose, emotions are much less responsive to direct commands, and thoughts sit somewhere in between.
What Can We Actually Control?
Most people come to therapy because there is something happening inside them that they don't like. They may be struggling with anxiety, low mood, anger, guilt, self-doubt, or unwanted urges. This raises an important question. How much control do we actually have over our thoughts, feelings, and actions?
Why Avoiding Anxiety Often Makes It Worse
Something feels too difficult. A conversation you must have, a place you need to go, a situation that makes your chest tighten. And so, quietly, you find a way around it. You cancel. You make an excuse. You tell yourself you'll do it another time. And then, almost immediately, you feel better.