Infidelity is often perceived as a relationship’s death toll, a betrayal so deep that it seems to shatter everything a couple has built together. But what if infidelity, as painful as it is, doesn’t have to spell the end of a relationship? What if it could be the beginning of a new chapter that requires […]
For the growing community of expats in Japan, the experience is often both rich and challenging, and it’s important to recognise that neither experience undermines or negates the other. Japan is renowned for its efficient public services, high levels of safety, beautiful clean spaces and delicious cuisine. These aspects undoubtedly contribute to a high quality […]
What are trauma bonds? The term “trauma bond” has entered popular terminology in recent years. On social media, a common phenomenon occurs where psychology terms go “viral” and, over the journey of hundreds or even thousands of videos and millions of viewers, the terms become flattened into a digestible, often two-dimensional version of their original […]
The Origins of Gaslighting The origins of the term “gaslighting” trace back to the 1938 play ‘Gas Light’ and its subsequent film adaptation. In this psychological thriller, a husband attempts to drive his wife insane by subtly dimming the gas-powered lights in their home and then denying any change when she notices. This insidious tactic, […]
Mark Dalby is an accomplished therapist with over 20 years of experience. This question-and-answer session discusses his background, approaches and experiences as a therapist. What are the key benefits of seeking family therapy when one or more members are neurodivergent? One of the key benefits of family therapy is that it focuses on people’s strengths, […]
Coming to terms with the end of a relationship can be like trying to find your way out of a labyrinth. No matter how long or short the journey was, each twist and turn leaves its mark. It can take months, or even years, to navigate the complex emotions and thoughts tied to our memories […]
Ending relationships is rarely easy and often comes with emotional and mental challenges. But, perhaps even more difficult to come to terms with is when a partner begins acting as if the relationship has ended or is ending, with no explanation. This type of withdrawal, sometimes called “quiet quitting,” is usually characterised by a gradual […]
In recent years, polyamory has gained recognition in popular culture, offering meaningful and fulfilling connections to many people who do not resonate with more traditional, binary relationship models. However, this type of relationship has also been reduced to a “fad” or trend in public discourse and is often the subject of much-misunderstood debate. Traditional, “nuclear […]
At the heart of our psychological and emotional landscape lies an intrinsic need for a sense of belonging, inextricably connected to our mental and emotional fulfilment. This longing for interconnectedness is not unique to humans, it is a universal thread which binds all living beings. From the intricate networks between mighty trees to the social […]
Within the varied and intricate strands which weave our relationships, the tender experience of feeling unloved or unappreciated is a common thread which drives many couples to seek counselling. Questions like “Why won’t they spend more time with me?” or “Why do they try to compensate for hurting my feelings by buying things?” often hint […]
