Summary   In this episode of Threads of Connection, licensed therapists Alefyah, Michelle, and Tyana discuss the complexities of finding a therapist, including the different types of mental health professionals, the importance of finding the right fit, and how to navigate the therapy process. They provide practical tips for selecting a therapist. The conversation also highlights the importance of self-advocacy, recognizing red flags in therapy, and the necessity of feeling safe and understood in the therapeutic relationship. Takeaways Finding a therapist can be overwhelming for many people. Self-advocacy is crucial in the therapy process. Trust your instincts when something feels off in therapy. It's acceptable to stop seeing a therapist if it's not a good fit. Therapists should respect your beliefs and values. Consultations with therapists should focus on your goals, not your entire history. Finding the right fit is essential for effective therapy.    Stay Connected: Submit Letters: mailto: letters@threadsofconnection.com IG:@threadsofconnectionpodcast Podcast Episodes    Find Alefyah: Therapy/Consultation: ⁠www.taquitherapy.com⁠ Podcast Episodes: ⁠www.deconstructingtherapy.com⁠ IG: ⁠@taquitherapy⁠ & ⁠@deconstructingtherapy⁠   Find Michelle: Therapy/Consultation/Training: http://www.pruettcounseling.com   Find Tyana: To Schedule a Session: www.tyanadalexander.com Alabama Emotionally Focused Therapy Community ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Music by: Talyah Alexander Special Thanks: George Alvarez 

Summary In this episode of Threads of Connection, licensed therapists Alefyah, Michelle, and Tyana explore the complexities of anger, discussing the differences between "clean" and "dirty" anger and how to express anger in healthy ways. They address common misconceptions about anger being a negative emotion and emphasize the importance of understanding when anger is healthy versus unhealthy. The conversation also highlights the significance of context in expressing anger and the need for self-awareness in managing emotional responses.  Takeaways Anger is a natural and universal emotion. "Clean" anger is assertive and respectful, while "dirty" anger is reactive and harmful. Suppressing anger can lead to unhealthy emotional outcomes. Understanding the context of anger helps in its expression. Anger can signal injustices and the need for change. Self-awareness is key in managing anger effectively. Labeling emotions can help in processing them better. Anger can be a secondary emotion, masking deeper feelings. Healthy expression of anger can strengthen relationships. Stay Connected: Submit Letters: mailto: letters@threadsofconnection.com IG:@ ThreadsofConnectionPodcast Podcast Episodes Find Alefyah: Therapy/Consultation: ⁠www.taquitherapy.com⁠ Podcast Episodes: ⁠www.deconstructingtherapy.com⁠ IG: ⁠@taquitherapy⁠ & ⁠@deconstructingtherapy⁠ Find Michelle: Therapy/Consultation/Training: http://www.pruettcounseling.com Find Tyana: To Schedule a Session: www.tyanadalexander.com Alabama Emotionally Focused Therapy Community ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Music by: Talyah Alexander Special Thanks: George Alvarez

Summary In this episode of Threads of Connection, licensed therapists Alefyah, Michelle, and Tyana explore the delicate balance between short-term comfort and long-term well-being in relationships, emphasizing the necessity of setting honest boundaries for mutual safety and comfort. Takeaways Sometimes you have to choose between short-term comfort and long-term comfort. Setting boundaries may cause temporary discomfort. Long-term honesty leads to greater comfort in relationships. Being honest about what's okay and what's not okay is crucial. Boundaries create a safer environment for both parties. Communication is key to establishing healthy boundaries. Short-term discomfort can lead to long-term benefits. Honesty fosters trust and safety in relationships. It's important to prioritize long-term well-being over immediate satisfaction. Healthy relationships require ongoing communication about boundaries. Stay Connected: Submit Letters: letters@threadsofconnection.com IG:@threadsofconnectionpodcast Podcast Episodes   Find Alefyah: Therapy/Consultation: ⁠www.taquitherapy.com⁠ Podcast Episodes: ⁠www.deconstructingtherapy.com IG: ⁠@taquitherapy⁠ & ⁠@deconstructingtherapy⁠   Find Michelle: Therapy/Consultation/Training: http://www.pruettcounseling.com  Find Tyana: To Schedule a Session: www.tyanadalexander.com Alabama Emotionally Focused Therapy Community ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Music by: Talyah Alexander Special Thanks: George Alvarez

Summary In this episode of Threads of Connection, licensed therapists Alefyah, Michelle, and Tyana discuss the complexities of relationships, particularly focusing on a common pattern couples fall into: the pursue-withdraw cycle. They delve into a listener's letter about relationship conflicts and provide insights on effective communication strategies. The conversation emphasizes the importance of patience and self-compassion as couples navigate their emotional dynamics and learn to communicate more effectively. Takeaways Couples can fall into repetitive patterns that hinder effective communication. Understanding the pursue-withdraw cycle is crucial for relationship dynamics. Both partners play valuable roles in relationships. Awareness of emotional triggers can help in managing conflicts. It's important to acknowledge when you're in a cycle of conflict. Self-compassion is essential when learning new communication strategies. Patience is key as couples learn to navigate relationship challenges.  Stay Connected:Submit Letters: letters@threadsofconnection.comIG:@threadsofconnectionpodcastPodcast EpisodesFind Alefyah: Therapy/Consultation: ⁠www.taquitherapy.com⁠Podcast Episodes: ⁠www.deconstructingtherapy.comIG: ⁠@taquitherapy⁠ & ⁠@deconstructingtherapy⁠ Find Michelle: Therapy/Consultation/Training: http://www.pruettcounseling.com Find Tyana: To Schedule a Session: www.tyanadalexander.comAlabama Emotionally Focused Therapy Community------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Music by: Talyah Alexander Special Thanks: George Alvarez

  Summary In this episode of Threads of Connection, licensed therapists Alefyah, Michelle, and Tyana discuss dynamics between withdrawers and pursuers in relationships. They explore the challenges faced by withdrawers, who often feel overwhelmed during conflicts, and the emotional toll it takes on both partners. The conversation emphasizes the importance of communication, understanding, and patience in navigating these dynamics, offering practical strategies for both withdrawers and pursuers to foster connection and resolve conflicts effectively.   Takeaways Withdrawers often feel misunderstood during conflicts. Communication is key to understanding each other's perspectives. It's important for withdrawers to express their feelings, even if it's difficult. Pursuers need reassurance that their withdrawing partner cares. Taking timeouts can help manage overwhelming emotions during conflicts. Proactive communication can strengthen relationships between withdrawers and pursuers. Patience is essential when trying new strategies in relationships. Both partners should acknowledge their emotional needs and fears. Learning to express emotions takes time and practice for withdrawers. It's okay to stumble while trying to improve communication. Stay Connected: Submit Letters: letters@threadsofconnection.com IG:@threadsofconnectionpodcast Podcast Episodes Find Alefyah:  Therapy/Consultation: ⁠www.taquitherapy.com⁠ Podcast Episodes: ⁠www.deconstructingtherapy.com   IG: ⁠@taquitherapy⁠ & ⁠@deconstructingtherapy⁠ Find Michelle:  Therapy/Consultation/Training: http://www.pruettcounseling.com Find Tyana:  To Schedule a Session: www.tyanadalexander.com Alabama Emotionally Focused Therapy Commun...

Summary In this episode of Threads of Connection, licensed therapists Alefyah, Michelle, and Tyana discuss the dynamics between pursuers and withdrawers in relationships, focusing on pursuers. They explore the struggles of pursuers who seek connection and challenges faced by withdrawers who may appear distant. Through a letter from a listener, they delve into the emotional needs of both parties and offer strategies for effective communication and connection. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-regulation and understanding each other's perspectives to foster healthier relationships. Takeaways Pursuers often feel lonely in their relationships despite external appearances. Withdrawers may seem distant but are processing their emotions internally. Effective communication requires understanding and patience from both partners. Self-regulation is crucial for expressing needs without escalating conflict. Pursuers should focus on inviting connection rather than chasing it. Healthy relationships often involve making repairs after conflicts. It's normal for couples to get it wrong two-thirds of the time. Expressing vulnerability can invite a more positive response from withdrawers. Understanding each other's emotional needs can bridge the gap between pursuers and withdrawers. Therapeutic strategies can help couples navigate their communication dynamics. Stay Connected: Submit Letters: letters@threadsofconnection.com IG:@threadsofconnectionpodcast Podcast Episodes Find Alefyah:  Therapy/Consultation: ⁠www.taquitherapy.com⁠ Podcast Episodes: ⁠www.deconstructingtherapy.com   IG: ⁠@taquitherapy⁠ & ⁠@deconstructingtherapy⁠ Find Michelle:  Therapy/Consultation/Training: http://www.pruettcounseling.com Find Tyana:  To Schedule a Session: www.tyanadalexander.com Alabama Emotionally Focused Therapy Community ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Music by: Talyah Alexander  Special Thanks: George Alvarez