Magda Janaszek Counselling

28/10/2025

As a counsellor working with young people, I often hear from parents who feel worried, frustrated, or unsure how to handle their teenager’s interest in va**ng. It’s a topic that comes up more and more in therapy — and one that can easily create tension at home.

In my latest blog, I explore why va**ng is so appealing to teens, what peer pressure and “fitting in” really mean for them, and how parents can respond with understanding and calm rather than conflict.

https://www.magdacounselling.co.uk/post/when-your-teenager-wants-to-vape-how-to-talk-understand-and-support-them

23/03/2025

🌸 Let’s Talk About Young People & Makeup 💄

It’s completely natural for children and teens to become curious about makeup — especially as they see friends, older siblings, or influencers experimenting with it. For many young people, it’s not just about appearance — it’s about self-expression, identity, and wanting to feel part of something.

💬 But for parents, it can bring up mixed feelings — concern about them growing up too fast, setting boundaries, or simply wondering what’s too much, too soon.

If you’ve found yourself saying “Not yet” and feeling unsure or even guilty about it — you’re not alone. Many parents are in the same boat, trying to find the right balance between allowing freedom and offering guidance.

💡 I’ve put together a few gentle, respectful ways you can say no (for now) to makeup — in a way that still makes your child feel heard, valued, and loved.

Because the truth is — you can hold boundaries and nurture their self-esteem at the same time.

You’re doing an amazing job, and these conversations — even the tricky ones — are part of building trust and confidence in your child.

13/02/2025

🌸 Join Us for a Special Open Day at Chestnut Health Clinic! 🌸

💙 Counselling & Women’s Health Open Day 💙

We’re excited to invite you to a day dedicated to mental, emotional, and physical well-being at Chestnut Health Clinic!

✨ Meet the Counsellor – Discover how therapy can support your emotional and mental health in a warm, welcoming space. Whether you're facing stress, anxiety, or just need someone to talk to, this is a great opportunity to learn more.

🌿 Women’s Health & Well-being Talk – Join us for insightful discussions on:
✔️ Self-care & stress management
✔️ Emotional resilience & mental wellness
✔️ Menopause & hormonal balance
✔️ Incontinence & pelvic health
✔️ Thermal screening for early health insights

Let’s talk, learn, and empower each other towards better health and well-being. Everyone is welcome! 💙

06/02/2025

"When Life Feels Like Too Much… Here’s How to Reset"

Ever stare at your to-do list and feel completely stuck? Whether you're a parent juggling endless tasks, a business owner drowning in responsibilities, or just trying to keep life together—overwhelm is real.

Here’s how to reset when everything feels like too much:

✨ Pause & breathe – A few deep breaths can work wonders.
✨ Start small – Wash a dish, make the bed, send one email. Tiny wins build momentum.
✨ Brain-dump & prioritize – Write it all down, then tackle what’s urgent first.
✨ One thing at a time – No multitasking, just focused effort in small bursts.
✨ Use your senses – Listen to music, step outside, splash cold water on your face.
✨ Be kind to yourself – Progress is progress, even if it’s slow.

You don’t have to do it all today. Just take the next small step. 💙

We’ve all been there—that moment when the to-do list is longer than the hours in the day, and instead of making progress, you find yourself frozen, unsure where to even start. Maybe you’re a business owner juggling deadlines, a parent trying to keep up with school runs and laundry, or a single...

05/02/2025

Intrusive thoughts are unwanted, distressing thoughts that seem to appear out of nowhere. They can be about anything—worries, fears, or even irrational scenarios—but having them does not mean they are true or that you will act on them. Everyone experiences intrusive thoughts at times, but when they become overwhelming, they can affect mental well-being.

How to Manage Intrusive Thoughts:
1️⃣ Recognize & Accept – Understand that intrusive thoughts are normal and don’t define who you are. Fighting them often makes them stronger.

2️⃣ Label Them as ‘Just Thoughts’ – Remind yourself: This is just a thought, not reality. You don’t have to give it meaning.

3️⃣ Practice Mindfulness – Stay present by focusing on your breath, your surroundings, or grounding techniques. This helps reduce over-identifying with thoughts.

4️⃣ Redirect Your Attention – Engage in something productive or enjoyable, like a hobby, a walk, or talking to a friend. Shifting focus can break the cycle.

5️⃣ Challenge & Reframe – Ask yourself: Is this thought based on facts? Is there any real evidence for it? Reframe it into a more balanced, rational perspective.

6️⃣ Seek Support – If intrusive thoughts are persistent and distressing, talking to a counsellor can provide tools and support to help manage them.

💙 You are not your thoughts. With the right strategies, you can reduce their power over you. If they’re affecting your daily life, reach out—help is available. 😊

28/11/2024

Here are four tips to help you navigate divorce with resilience and clarity:

Prioritize Self-Care
Take care of your emotional and physical health. Set aside time to rest, eat nourishing meals, and engage in activities that bring you comfort or joy. Even small moments of self-care can help ground you during stressful times.

Seek Professional Support
Talking to a counsellor or therapist can help you process emotions and build coping strategies. A legal advisor can also help you understand your rights and make informed decisions. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance—it’s a sign of strength.

Focus on Open Communication
If children or shared responsibilities are involved, strive for respectful and clear communication with your ex-partner. Use tools like co-parenting apps or mediation services to make the process smoother.

Take Things One Step at a Time
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the big picture, but try breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Celebrate progress, no matter how small, and remember that healing takes time.

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and seeking support can make a world of difference. Divorce may feel like the end of a chapter, but it can also mark the beginning of a new, brighter phase in your life. 🍀🌞

27/11/2024

Waking up earlier can do wonders for your mental health. Starting your day with a little extra time gives you the space to ease into the day, reducing the feeling of being rushed or overwhelmed. This calm start helps lower stress levels, giving you a clearer, more focused mindset as you move through your tasks.

By waking up earlier, you also set a positive tone for the rest of your day, allowing for time to practice mindfulness, enjoy a peaceful morning routine, or even just enjoy a quiet cup of coffee. The simple act of having those extra minutes in the morning can make a significant difference in how you feel throughout the day, helping you manage stress, increase productivity, and maintain a sense of control. Plus, a consistent sleep schedule and early wake-up time can improve the quality of your sleep, further enhancing your overall well-being.

28/08/2024

As kids head back to school, it's more important than ever to enhance communication with them. Strong communication builds trust, helps children express their feelings, and supports their emotional well-being during this transitional time. Improved communication can also lead to better understanding, fewer conflicts, and a stronger parent-child relationship.

-Active Listening: Give your full attention, make eye contact, and respond thoughtfully.
-Use Simple Language: Speak in terms your child can easily understand.
-Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage deeper conversations.
-Validate Their Feelings: Acknowledge and respect their emotions.
-Set a Positive Example: Model calm and respectful communication.

Remember, every small step you take to connect with your child makes a big difference. With patience, understanding, and positive affirmations, you’re building a foundation of love and trust that will support your child’s growth and happiness.

29/05/2024

"Believe in the wisdom of the universe. It knows your strength, resilience, and capacity for growth. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, knowing that you are capable of overcoming whatever comes your way. Trust in yourself and in the journey ahead. You've got this!" 🤩

15/02/2024

🌟 Strengthening Trust in Your Relationship 🌟

Imagine this: You and your partner sit down after a long day, sharing your innermost thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. It's in these moments of open and honest communication that trust begins to blossom.

🗨️ Open and Honest Communication: Picture yourselves discussing hopes, fears, and dreams with unwavering transparency. By creating this safe space, you lay the groundwork for trust to flourish.

Now, let's fast forward to a scenario where promises made are promises kept, day in and day out. Your partner shows up consistently, honouring their word and reinforcing your confidence in them.

⏰ Consistency and Reliability: Whether it's keeping plans or lending a helping hand, reliability becomes second nature. This consistency builds a solid foundation of trust over time.

But what happens when mistakes are made? Imagine owning up to them, offering heartfelt apologies, and taking proactive steps to make amends.

🤝 Accountability and Responsibility: By embracing accountability, you strengthen the fabric of trust, showing your commitment to integrity and growth.

Now, envision a relationship where boundaries are respected and autonomy is cherished. You and your partner establish clear boundaries together, fostering mutual respect and trust.

🛑 Boundaries and Respect: Upholding these boundaries becomes second nature, creating a sense of safety and security within your relationship.

Lastly, picture yourselves navigating life's challenges with patience and understanding. Through empathy and a willingness to weather the storms together, you forge an unbreakable bond built on trust.

⏳ Patience and Understanding: Trust-building is a journey—a journey marked by open communication, consistency, accountability, respect, and patience. And with each step forward, your relationship grows stronger and more resilient. 💖

14/02/2024

Boundaries: Your Key to Better Mental Health ✨

We all know life gets busy, but remember, it's okay to take a step back and prioritize your own well-being. Setting boundaries isn't about being selfish; it's about self-care. 🌿

By defining what's acceptable and what's not in our relationships and daily interactions, we protect our mental and emotional space. It's like giving yourself permission to say 'yes' to what truly matters and 'no' to what drains your energy. ⚡

Research consistently shows that setting boundaries is not only essential for our mental health but also crucial for fostering healthier relationships and reducing stress. So, let's empower ourselves by setting clear and healthy boundaries, paving the way for a more balanced and fulfilling life. 💪

So, let's make self-care a priority today! Take a moment to assess your boundaries and make sure they're serving you well. You deserve to feel respected, valued, and at peace in your own life. 💖

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11/02/2024

As a therapist working closely with young people, I've noticed a topic that regularly arises in my sessions: supporting children through challenging times, especially when they're experiencing suicidal thoughts. It's a tough subject, but one that's incredibly important for parents to navigate with care and understanding.

That's why I've put together a comprehensive article filled with helpful tips and insights for parents who may find themselves in this situation. From understanding the signs to providing crucial support and seeking professional help, this article covers it all.

If you're a parent looking for guidance on how to support your child through difficult times, I invite you to give it a read. Remember, you're not alone, and there are resources available to help you and your family every step of the way. Together, we can create a supportive environment where all children feel valued and understood. 💖

https://www.magdacounselling.co.uk/post/supporting-your-child-through-suicidal-thoughts