Trauma doesn’t just affect the past—it can change how you experience the present and imagine the future. If you’ve been through something overwhelming or painful, you might feel its impact long after the event itself. Maybe it surfaces in waves of sadness, exhaustion, or numbness. Perhaps it makes you feel disconnected from yourself or the …
In our fast-paced, mind-centered world, it’s easy to think of our bodies as simply the vessels that carry us through life. But they do much more than that—they hold onto our experiences, both joyful and painful. When we go through trauma, it doesn’t just affect our thoughts and emotions. It can leave lasting imprints on …
Trauma leaves a lasting imprint on both the mind and body, often in ways we don’t fully understand. One of the most common responses to trauma is dissociation—a sense of disconnect from reality, emotions, or even from your own body. For many trauma survivors, dissociation can feel like zoning out, watching life from a distance …
Trauma, whether from a single life-altering event or prolonged distress, leaves an imprint on both the body and mind. Often, people downplay their experiences, unaware of how unresolved trauma silently shapes their emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships. This can look like brushing traumatic events under the rug or convincing yourself that “it wasn’t that bad.” …
How Trauma Affects Sleep Trauma can impact every part of your life—your emotions, relationships, and even your ability to get a good night’s sleep. If you’ve been through a traumatic experience, you may find yourself struggling with nightmares, sleep disturbances, or even full-blown sleep disorders, making it hard to wake up feeling rested. Nightmares, in …
Have you ever held the door for someone and seen their smile brighten your day? Or maybe a kind word from a coworker made a tough morning a little easier. These small moments might seem insignificant at the time, but they can create ripples that spread far beyond what we see. Every action, no matter …
We all hesitate when making decisions sometimes. Maybe you’re weighing two job offers, debating a move, or deciding whether to leave a relationship. Small choices—like picking a restaurant or committing to a new hobby—can feel overwhelming. Occasional hesitation is usual, but when indecision becomes a habit, it can take a toll. You may feel stuck, …
Life rarely unfolds exactly as we plan. Just when we think we’re on a steady path, something unexpected happens—a job loss, a relationship ending, or a sudden shift in priorities. These moments can feel overwhelming, but they also present an opportunity: the chance to choose how we respond and, in doing so, shape our future. …
Do you ever second-guess yourself, even when you know the right choice deep down? Maybe you replay conversations in your head, wondering if you were too sensitive or took something the wrong way. As a highly sensitive person (HSP), your empathy and deep perception are gifts, but without self-trust, they can feel more like a …
In recent years, self-compassion has become a hot topic in mental health research. Dr. Kristin Neff, a leading expert in this field, has shown that self-compassion can significantly boost happiness and emotional resilience. Her research, published in Annual Reviews, highlights the importance of treating yourself with kindness and understanding. Studies by other researchers, like Lee …
Why Trauma Makes It Hard to Trust Yourself Self-trust allows us to feel confident in our decisions, set boundaries, and navigate life autonomously. But when trauma occurs—whether from childhood experiences, abusive relationships, or a sudden, life-altering event—it can shatter that trust. Many trauma survivors struggle to believe in themselves, questioning their instincts, choices, and even …
Grief is one of life’s most profound and most personal experiences. It reshapes our world, affecting our emotions, thoughts, and physical well-being. At Firefly Therapy, we know healing isn’t about “getting over” a loss. Instead, it’s about finding ways to carry the love and memories forward while making space for joy, purpose, and connection. Healing …
Do you ever feel like you’re waiting for the perfect moment to change your life? Maybe you second-guess yourself, afraid of making the wrong choice. Or perhaps you’ve been listening to other people’s opinions for so long that you’re unsure what you really want. The truth is that creating a life you love isn’t about …
Co-parenting can feel like uncharted territory after a divorce or separation. It’s about working as a team with your ex-partner to provide your child with a stable, loving environment—even though your relationship has ended. While this process can be challenging, prioritizing your child’s well-being is key to helping them feel secure and supported. Co-parenting requires …
There are still all sorts of myths and misconceptions about EMDR! So, let’s examine the most common ones and see if they have merit. Myth 1: EMDR Is Like Being Hypnotized I get asked a lot if EMDR is like hypnosis. There are a few similarities between the two, such as the use of imagery, …
EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a revolutionary therapeutic approach that has transformed the lives of many individuals struggling with painful memories, traumatic experiences, and emotional distress. But how does EMDR work in the brain to bring these transformative changes? Let’s delve into the fascinating world of EMDR therapy and its profound impact …
What are people talking about when they refer to the eight phases of EMDR? Let’s get into it. Phase 1: History Taking & Treatment Planning We always begin with establishing your goals for therapy and getting a detailed history, including a timeline of your symptoms and the emotions, beliefs, and bodily sensations that go along …
Dating again after a divorce can be both exciting and intimidating. It’s a new chapter in your life, and while it might feel daunting, it’s essential to approach it with an open heart and mind. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process of starting over and dating after divorce: Give Yourself Time …
Divorce is one of life’s most challenging transitions, often bringing up a wide range of emotions. If you’re going through a divorce, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure what’s expected or how to cope. Though each person’s journey differs, many experience similar emotional stages during and after divorce. Knowing what to expect can help you …
Losing someone special turns your world upside down. But even in the darkest times, you can find a new purpose. Let’s talk about how. Let’s Talk About Grief Grief is tough, but let’s face it head-on. Are you feeling the sting of loss? It’s a natural and healthy response. Cry if you need to. Or …