07/08/2025
A common reason for seeing a counsellor is low self esteem along with a frustration for not being able to communicate when others are acting in a way that is upsetting or disrespectful.
Setting boundaries and letting people know that something is unacceptable can build respect and empowerment, although this process takes time and integration, it feels scary and unnatural at first.
There could be part of us that is stuck in a child state where we see others as superior. We could have faulty belief systems that keep us stuck feeling small/insignificant because this is the safe zone, that way we can't be judged. Maybe we were not given the space to voice our feelings or have them heard and accepted.
Humans are generally averse to conflict, so they avoid confrontation, however there is conflict - and this conflict is held within us, until we compassionately work with it.
Where appropriate, I like to work psychodynamically (childhood development approach) with clients to understand the routes to holding back in this area and move on to practical approaches to develop a sense of self identity.
Image from Deep Texts
