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 […]
Embarking on the heartfelt journey of self-improvement and deepening connections with those around us, we stumble upon a profound truth: the grace of admitting our mistakes is not just an act of humility but a crucial step towards genuine growth. At the heart of nurturing enduring, meaningful relationships lies the art of accountability. The glue […]
Today’s conceptions of romantic relationships are largely shaped by narratives of fairytale endings and romcom rides into the sunset. Although these simplistic notions of romance as being an endpoint, a resolution which then absolves us of discomfort, in reality, the joining of individuals in a committed relationship often creates more questions than answers. This is […]
The midst of the festive season’s glittering splendour can magnify feelings of loneliness. For many, the emphasis on cherished family moments and meaningful gatherings can stir feelings of isolation and inadequacy. Those without a robust network of loved ones might find themselves grappling with a sense of not measuring up, feeling adrift amidst the season’s […]
