SZTherapy

12/03/2025

🛑 Understanding Domestic Violence: The Power & Control Wheel 🛑
This powerful graphic illustrates the many forms of abuse that can occur in domestic violence situations. It’s crucial to recognize that it’s not just physical—abuse can manifest in emotional, financial, and psychological ways too.
👉 Awareness is Key: Each segment of the wheel highlights tactics abusers might employ, from intimidation and isolation to economic abuse and emotional manipulation.
💜 Support is Vital: If you or someone you know is experiencing any form of abuse, it’s important to seek help. No one deserves to be in a situation where they feel threatened or controlled.
🙌 Speak Up: Let’s work together to spread awareness and support victims. Share this post to help educate others on the signs of domestic violence.

11/29/2025

https://www.cnbc.com/2025/11/27/psychologists-this-is-one-of-the-strongest-predictors-of-a-happy-relationship.html?link_source=ta_first_comment&taid=692a37aa9ffc8e0001d4a4f3&utm_campaign=trueanthem&utm_content=main&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwZnRzaAOYBpJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEealkOxXht6vlaucwjMD7xvmw9HCXEeS-pm6qdlXAA25a6tSLFdQ1t-U-o_a8_aem_pL39CPhDvIorK3S2hwzScg

Couples counselor Baya Voce says that this green flag is a sure sign of relationship success, but it can be "hard to spot early on."

11/29/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17jaBV2wyx/?mibextid=wwXIfr

11/15/2025

Calling Out Focus on the Family’s Harmful Mixed Messages: Telling domestic violence victims to leave, but mentioning "divorce is a sin" twice

11/15/2025

🌱 Growth Through Love 💖
In relationships, many couples find themselves feeling stuck, often because of a mindset that says, “This is who I am, take it or leave it.” This attitude can create walls rather than bridges, leading to stagnation instead of growth.

When we stay rigid in our identities, we miss the opportunity to evolve alongside our partners. Healthy relationships should inspire us to reflect and work on our negative or toxic traits. 💔

Here’s why this matters:
1. Communication is Key: True love fosters open dialogue. When partners actively listen to each other’s feelings and emotions, they create a safe space for vulnerability. 🤝
2. Mutual Growth: Embracing the idea that both individuals can change and grow strengthens the bond. A supportive partner will encourage you to be your best self. 🌱
3. Breaking Patterns: Remaining stuck in old habits damages relationships. Challenging ourselves to address these behaviors not only helps us but also enriches our connection.

Remember, being in a relationship should motivate you to improve and deepen your love. Let’s create an atmosphere of growth—where both partners strive to be better together! 💪❤️

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11/12/2025

🐾✨ 🤩When you’re dressed to impress and ready for some serious feelings talk!

I loved hanging with this handsome fella today …he’s obviously not afraid to access that feelings wheel either. 😉 Plus, he just might be the best dressed therapy friend around! Paws and reflect.🐶💼 🐾

11/04/2025

🌟 Navigating Relationships: Understanding Self-Sabotage 🌟
Relationships can be beautiful but they often come with challenges that we might not even be aware of. Many people unknowingly fall into patterns that can sabotage their romantic connections. Here are some insights to help you break the cycle and foster healthier relationships:

Why Do We Self-Sabotage?
1. 🚫 Poor Self-Esteem: Our internal dialogue matters. Negative self-concepts can lead to destructive behaviors.
2. 💔 Broken Trust: Past betrayals can linger, creating barriers to intimacy.
3. 📈 Perfectionism: High expectations can set the stage for disappointment.
4. ⚠️ Lack of Relationship Skills: Understanding how to navigate emotions and conflicts can make a world of difference.

Destructive Strategies to Avoid
1. ❌ Withdrawal: Pulling away can create distance and misunderstandings.
2. 🛡️ Defensiveness: Taking feedback as personal attacks can close off communication.
3. 🤥 Pretending: Honesty is the foundation of any relationship.
4. 🔄 Pursue-and-Withdraw Dynamics: This push-pull can create emotional turbulence.

Key Expectations for Healthy Relationships
1. 🤝 Trust: A relationship built on respect, honesty, and loyalty is stronger.
2. 📣 Open Communication: Clear conversations can prevent many misunderstandings.
3. 💖 Commitment: Being emotionally available is crucial for deep connections.
4. 🛡️ Safety: Feeling safe enough to be vulnerable nurtures intimacy.

If you find yourself in these patterns, remember: change is possible! Therapy can provide valuable tools and insights.💬✨
Let’s take steps toward healthier, happier relationships! 💕

11/02/2025

🌪️ Let’s talk about a familiar pattern many of us have experienced: the “nice phase” of a toxic person. You know the type—after they’ve behaved badly, they suddenly seem sweeter than ever, almost like they’re trying to win you back. But here’s the truth: this is often a temporary act, and eventually, those old patterns creep back in. 🤔

It’s important to recognize that this behavior is not a sign of genuine change. Often, it’s a smokescreen designed to mask underlying issues and manipulate emotions.

Remember, your peace of mind is worth more than the momentary niceness of someone who has hurt you. 💖

If you find yourself stuck in a cycle like this, consider reaching out for support. Healing starts with understanding your worth and setting those necessary boundaries. You deserve relationships that uplift, not ones that keep you guessing. 🌱✨
Let’s remind each other: we’re stronger than we think! 💪💬

10/30/2025

💣 Truth Bomb Alert 👇🏼—

“Perfectionism isn’t about doing things perfectly; it’s about finding faults easily.” 😳

This statement invites us to reflect on the nature of perfectionism. Often, it’s not just about striving for high standards; it’s about a mindset that focuses on criticism and highlighting imperfections—whether in ourselves or others.

This perspective can lead to stress, anxiety, and a relentless cycle of dissatisfaction. Recognizing this truth is the first step toward breaking free from the constraints of perfectionism.

Instead of striving for perfection, consider embracing a growth mindset. Acknowledge that making mistakes is a natural part of learning and growing. Allow yourself to celebrate small achievements and recognize that flaws can bring authenticity to our experiences.

Embrace the idea that imperfections are part of the human experience and can foster growth and resilience.

How does this resonate with your experiences? 💭

10/29/2025

🌤️✨ Embrace the Power of Novelty! ✨🌤️
Did you know that short, new experiences—like a spontaneous day trip or exploring a hidden gem in your city—can boost your mood and increase dopamine levels? You don’t always need a grand vacation to feel refreshed! 🌍💫
💡 Key takeaways:
• Your brain craves small doses of novelty.
• Routine keeps you grounded, but novelty brings you to life!
• Finding joy in simple adventures can be transformative.
So, step out of your routine this week! Take a different route to work, try a new café, or visit a park you’ve never been to. 🚶‍♂️☕️ Discover what makes you feel alive!