Blog Articles

The Holiday Paradox

The Holiday Paradox: Why the “Happiest” Time of Year Can Feel So Heavy

It's called the "holiday paradox"—the more everyone expects us to be joyful, the heavier sadness can feel. This season can feel more like emotional whiplash than a celebration. But why does this happen, especially when we're "supposed" to be happy? The Hidden Gaps That Deepen the Blue 1. The Comparison Gap: Reality vs. The Highlight Reel We're surrounded [...]

Why Narcissistic Abuse Goes Unrecognized in Asian Communities

Why Narcissistic Abuse Goes Unrecognized in Asian Communities

Narcissistic abuse is a form of psychological and emotional manipulation that can leave deep scars, yet it often goes unnoticed or unaddressed in Asian communities. Cultural values such as filial piety, collectivism, and the emphasis on maintaining family honor can create an environment where abuse is normalized, dismissed, or even justified. As a result, many [...]

Qi and Mental Health

Your Qi Introduces You Before You Speak: Qi and Mental Health

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Qi is considered our vital life force, the energy that flows through our bodies, governing physical, emotional, and mental processes. This energy isn't confined within us; it radiates outwards, influencing our interactions with the world around us. Your Energy Precedes You: Have you ever met someone and immediately felt a [...]

The Family Tree with Thorns: Understanding Generational Trauma

Introduction Generational trauma, also known as intergenerational or transgenerational trauma, refers to the psychological and emotional effects of trauma that are passed down from one generation to the next. This type of trauma can significantly impact individuals and families, influencing behaviors, beliefs, and mental health across generations. For many in the [...]

Transactional Analysis Influences of Childhood on Adult Life

Transactional Analysis: Influences of Childhood on Adult Life

I would like to introduce a therapy modality called Transactional Analysis (TA) that has been close to my heart. I have been using TA to help clients to explore their adverse child experiences and how these have influenced and affected us as adults: The Three key factors of TA are life scripts, drivers and injunctions. Life scripts come from how we view the world [...]