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Phillippa Chinery Counselling

Therapy for Marginalised Communities: A space to Heal, Grow, and Reconnect With Your Authentic Self

Hi, I’m Phillippa – an Integrative Therapist passionate about helping you uncover the parts of yourself that may have been hidden, silenced, or shamed. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, grief, or a sense of not belonging, I’m here to help you heal, find your voice, and embrace your authentic self.

Whether it’s navigating racial trauma, cultural pressures, perfectionism, or the fear of being vulnerable, I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can safely explore who you are and what you need to thrive. Together, we’ll uncover what’s holding you back, and I’ll support you in building a life where you feel confident, empowered, and seen.

I can support you with:

Relational Trauma
Cultural Identity & Belonging
Self Worth & Boundaries
Self- Esteem
Workplace Difficulties
Body Image
Codependency
Life Changing Events & Transitions
Sexuality
Loneliness

Stress
Anger
Anxiety, depression, and emotional overwhelm
Grief, loss, and childhood trauma
Navigating identity and racial trauma
Overcoming shame, people-pleasing, and perfectionism
Building self-compassion and finding your voice

Online Therapy

Accessible and flexible counselling from the comfort of your own space.

Sessions conducted via Zoom
Ideal for clients with busy schedules or those outside my local area
Weekly or fortnightly sessions
£70 per session

Book a Free Consultation Call

“When we can see ourselves as we truly are and accept ourselves, we build the necessary foundation for self-love.”

Bell Hooks

Ready to Begin? Let’s Take This Step Together

💭 Is your fear of disconnection keeping you stuck in patterns that no longer serve you?

When you grow up learning that love is conditional—on your silence, your compliance, your self-abandonment—it makes perfect sense that being your full, authentic self feels terrifying.

Fear of disconnection is real. It's rooted in lived experiences of emotional neglect, rejection, and having your needs dismissed.

But here’s the truth:

✨ That fear isn’t proof that you’re broken.
✨ It’s proof that you’re human—and that your system learned to protect you.

Healing starts by meeting that fear with compassion, not shame. Here's how you can begin:

1️⃣ Name the fear instead of shaming it. (It makes sense why it’s there.)

2️⃣ Gently explore:
What am I afraid will happen if I’m fully myself?
When have I survived disconnection before?
What truth needs honouring, even if others can't meet it?

3️⃣ Take one small, courageous step.
It might be setting a boundary, saying "no" without explaining yourself, or simply choosing rest when guilt whispers otherwise.

🌱 You don’t have to erase fear to move forward. You can bring it with you, and still choose yourself anyway.

You are allowed to take up space. You are allowed to disappoint others to stay connected to yourself.

You are allowed to be free.

👇🏿 What's one truth you've been afraid to voice? Drop it in the comments—or save this post when you need a reminder that you are not too much.

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #HealingFromRelationalTrauma #PeoplePleaserRecovery #FearOfAbandonment #SelfTrustJourney #BoundariesAreLove #InnerChildHealing #EmotionalNeglectRecovery #SelfWorthMatters #TraumaHealingJourney

Breaking News: Recovering People-Pleaser Relapses Again 🙃

Setting boundaries is HARD when you’re used to saying yes to everything. But unlearning takes time! What’s ONE boundary you’re working on right now? Drop it below—I’ll go first: ‘Let me think about it’ is my new go-to response. 😌👇🏾

#BoundariesAreLove #PeoplePleaserRecovery #TheSelfLoveTherapist #TherapyHumour #InnerChildHealing #EmotionalExhaustion #BurnoutRecovery #YouAreNotAlone

I asked AI who the better therapist was...
Me or it. And the response? 🫠
Let’s just say even the algorithm knows: healing runs deeper than data.

✨ Therapy isn’t just about advice—it’s about being seen, felt, held, and challenged in ways that only human connection can offer.

Yes, AI can provide tips at 2am, but it can’t sit with your silence, read the tremble in your voice, or understand the weight of generational trauma, code-switching fatigue, or the grief that comes with constantly being "the strong one."

As a real-life therapist (hi, it’s me 👋🏿), I’m not just giving you tools—I’m walking with you through shame, grief, rage, joy, identity shifts, and emotional rebirth. It’s relational. It’s reparative. It’s rooted in trust.

If you’re ready for therapy that meets you where you are—without judgement, pressure, or performative wellness—I’ve got space for you.

🔗 Tap the link in bio to learn more about working together, or DM me “READY” and I’ll guide you through the next steps 💛

💬 Tell me: What’s one thing you’ve craved in a healing space that tech could never give?

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #BlackTherapistUK #RelationalHealing #EmotionalHealing #TherapyIsRelational #HumanConnectionMatters #BoundariesAndHealing #SelfCompassionJourney #MentalHealthSupport #HealingInSafeSpaces #CulturallyCompetentCare #BlackWomenHealing #TherapyNotTips #TherapyWithPhillippa #AIvsHumanTherapist #SelfAwarenessMatters #SafeSpaceHealing

🧠 Just because it’s familiar doesn’t mean it’s your truth.

So many of us are carrying family patterns that were never ours to begin with—ways of coping, surviving, silencing ourselves to stay “safe.” You might find yourself people-pleasing, avoiding conflict, playing the peacekeeper, or taking on too much… and wondering why it feels so hard to stop.

The truth? These behaviours made sense in your first family. They were adaptations—responses to emotional neglect, chaos, unspoken rules, or the weight of being “the strong one.”

But recognising the pattern? That’s the first crack in the cycle.

And no, this work isn’t about blaming your parents or your culture. It’s about giving yourself permission to choose differently now.

✨ Reflective prompt
What’s one belief, role, or behaviour you inherited from your family that no longer fits the person you’re becoming?

💛 Healing is messy. But it starts with awareness, and you’re already doing it.

👇🏿 Share your reflections below if it feels safe, or save this post as a reminder: you’re allowed to unlearn what no longer serves you.

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #BreakingGenerationalCycles #InnerChildHealing #FamilyPatterns #TraumaRecovery #PeoplePleasing #EmotionalHealing #BoundariesAreLove #TherapyForBlackWomen #HealingJourney #MentalHealthAwareness #CycleBreaker

Family patterns can feel so deeply ingrained that we forget to question them:

👉🏿 Avoiding conflict because that’s how peace was kept.
👉🏿 Overworking to prove your worth.
👉🏿 Suppressing emotions because they were “too much.”

These patterns aren’t your fault—but they don’t have to define you either.

Healing starts with curiosity, compassion, and intentional choices. Every small step, like saying no when you need rest or letting yourself feel what you feel, helps build a new legacy—one of safety, love, and authenticity. 🌿

💬 What’s one small shift you’re ready to make? Let’s share in the comments and celebrate each step forward.

#BreakingGenerationalPatterns #IntergenerationalHealing #TheSelfLoveTherapist #EmotionalWellness #SelfCompassion #FamilyHealing #TraumaAwareness #HealingJourney #CycleBreaker

Being "nice" shouldn’t mean sacrificing yourself.

But when you’re a people-pleaser, that’s exactly what happens.

✨ You say yes when you really mean no.
✨ You overextend yourself to keep the peace.
✨ You swallow your feelings to avoid conflict.

And over time? You disappear in the process.

Because every time you prioritise someone else’s comfort over your own, you’re teaching yourself that your needs don’t matter.

People-pleasing doesn’t make you kind. It makes you exhausted.

But here’s the truth:

💡 Boundaries don’t make you unkind.
💡 Saying no doesn’t make you difficult.
💡 Prioritising yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.

✨ You are allowed to exist without making yourself small. ✨

❓ What’s one way people-pleasing has held you back? Drop it in the comments ⬇️

#PeoplePleasing #EmotionalHealing #BoundariesAreSelfCare #SelfAbandonment #InnerWork #AuthenticLiving #SelfCompassion #TherapyTalks #HealingJourney #TheSelfLoveTherapist

You weren’t meant to raise yourself. But you did. And now? You get to reparent yourself with the love you always deserved. 🖤

For so many of us, survival meant silencing our needs, keeping the peace, staying small, and being “the good one.”
But inside you? There’s still a younger version of you—quiet, hurting, and longing to be seen.

Reparenting isn’t about blaming your caregivers. It’s about giving yourself the care they couldn’t.

Here’s how you start showing up for you:

👉🏿 Listen: When your anxiety flares or you feel triggered—pause. That’s your inner child calling for attention, not punishment.
👉🏿 Validate: It wasn’t “too much.” You weren’t “too sensitive.” Your pain has always made sense.
👉🏿 Care: Rest. Set a boundary. Say no without overexplaining. That’s love in action.
👉🏿 Affirm: Try this—“I’m allowed to take up space. I am worthy of softness.”

Reparenting is tender work. It’s not always pretty. But it’s how we stop abandoning ourselves. It’s how we begin to feel safe, for real. 🌱

✨ You’re not broken—you were never given the tools. But you’re learning. And that matters.

💬 What’s something your inner child still needs to hear? I’d love to hold space for it in the comments. Let’s honour them together.

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #InnerChildHealing #ReparentYourself #EmotionalHealing #GenerationalHealing #SelfCompassion #HealingJourney #BreakTheCycle

Breaking cycles isn’t easy—but it starts with you. And that’s powerful. 🖤

If you grew up holding it all in, walking on eggshells, or never quite feeling “enough,” you’re not imagining it. That’s intergenerational trauma—quiet, persistent, and deeply woven into how you show up in the world.

✨ Maybe no one taught you how to set boundaries.
✨ Maybe emotions felt unsafe.
✨ Maybe you learned love had to be earned.

You didn’t choose those patterns. But you can choose what comes next.

Healing isn’t just about “fixing” yourself. It’s about coming home to who you truly are—and creating something different for yourself and those who follow after you. Whether that’s your future kids, your community, or your inner child... your healing echoes far beyond you.

Every boundary you set, every tear you let fall, every moment you offer yourself compassion—it all matters. It’s proof that you’re doing the work to turn pain into power.

🖤 You don’t have to have it all figured out.
🖤 You just have to start.

🔁 Save this post when you need a reminder that you're not broken—you're breaking cycles.

💬 What’s one small way you're rewriting your story today? Let’s hold space for each other in the comments—you’re not doing this alone.

#IntergenerationalTrauma #BreakingTheCycle #HealingJourney #TraumaRecovery #BoundariesMatter #EmotionalHealing #InnerChildHealing #SelfCompassion #BlackMentalHealthMatters #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Healing isn’t about ‘fixing’ yourself—it’s about untangling the knots that life, family, and society have wrapped around you.

Maybe you grew up believing…

🧶 Your needs weren’t as important as everyone else’s.
🧶 You had to be ‘strong’ all the time, even when you were struggling.
🧶 Love had to be earned, not received freely.
🧶 Being ‘too much’ or ‘not enough’ meant you had to shrink yourself to belong.

But here’s the truth: you were never the problem. The world just made you feel that way.

💡 Therapy isn’t about forcing things into place—it’s about gently loosening the knots, one by one. It’s about:

✨ Unlearning the beliefs that keep you small.
✨ Finding your voice after years of people-pleasing.
✨ Learning that rest, softness, and boundaries aren’t selfish.
✨ Rebuilding trust with yourself so you no longer second-guess every decision.
✨ Feeling safe enough to take up space, unapologetically.

And here’s the thing: healing is messy—some days, it feels like you’re making progress, and other days, like you’re back where you started. But even when it doesn’t feel like it, every time you choose yourself, you’re loosening another knot.

💬 Tell me—what’s one ‘knot’ you’re currently untangling? Drop it in the comments.

📌 Save this as a reminder that healing isn’t linear, but every small shift matters.

#HealingJourney #EmotionalHealing #TherapyForGrowth #UnlearningAndRelearning #InnerWork #HealingIsMessy #BreakTheCycle #TheSelfLoveTherapist #RadicalSelfCare #SelfCompassionMatters #ReclaimYourself

Do you ever feel like you can’t fully relax? Like the moment things quiet down, your body is bracing for impact? That’s not just stress—that’s hypervigilance. A nervous system stuck in survival mode.

At some point, staying on high alert felt like the only way to protect yourself. But now? It’s exhausting. The good news? Your body can learn a new way.

🌿 Here’s where we start:

✨ Notice the signs—When does your body tense up? What situations make you feel on edge? Awareness is step one.
✨ Ground yourself in the present—Press your feet into the floor, take a slow breath, name five things around you. These small cues remind your nervous system: we’re safe now.
✨ Get curious, not critical—This response makes sense given what you’ve been through. But it doesn’t have to define you forever.

Healing isn’t about never feeling fear—it’s about learning to hold it differently, so it doesn’t hold you back.

💛 Does this resonate? Drop a 💛 in the comments if this is something you’re working through, too.

#HypervigilanceAwareness #HealingJourney #TraumaRecovery #SelfCompassion #Mindfulness #MentalHealthMatters #AnxietySupport #PTSDRecovery #NervousSystemHealing #SomaticHealing #TherapyWorks #EmotionalWellbeing #BoundariesMatter #SelfAwareness #YouAreNotAlone #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Are you tired of being the one who’s always ‘got it together’? This is for you.

You’ve been strong for so long, haven’t you? 💭

Always holding it together, always being the reliable one, the one others lean on. It’s admirable, but it’s also exhausting.

Here’s the truth: strength doesn’t mean you have to carry it all alone. Strength is also knowing when to say, “I need help.”

When you hide behind your strength, you risk losing connection with yourself. The pain you’ve tucked away doesn’t disappear—it just waits, quietly asking for your attention.

True strength isn’t about how much you endure; it’s about giving yourself the care and compassion you so freely offer others.

🤍 You are not weak for asking for support.
🤍 You are not less-than for needing rest.
🤍 You are human.

And you deserve the space to feel, to breathe, and to heal. 🌱

💬 Does this resonate? Let’s chat about it in the comments—your voice matters here.

👉🏿 Save this post as a reminder that your strength is valuable, but so is your softness.

#EmotionalHealing #StrengthAndSelfCare #MentalHealthMatters #BoundariesMatter #HealingJourney #SelfCompassion #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Are You Holding Your Breath Without Realising It?

When you’ve been carrying emotions for so long, it can feel like walking through life with an invisible weight on your chest—waiting for a moment to finally exhale.

Many of us learned to suppress emotions to keep the peace, stay strong, or avoid judgment. But silence doesn’t make emotions disappear. Over time, it leads to exhaustion, disconnection, and a deep longing to feel whole again.

💡 Your emotions aren’t the problem. They’re the map leading you back to yourself.

✨ Here’s how you can start unlocking what’s been buried:
🔹 Create a safe space to feel—without shame or self-judgment.
🔹 Put words to your emotions—journal them, speak them, or even whisper them to yourself.
🔹 Seek support—healing happens in spaces where you’re truly seen and heard.

🌱 It’s not easy, but it’s possible. Healing begins the moment you pause and say, "It’s safe for me to feel."

💬 Which step feels most doable for you right now? Let’s talk in the comments—I’d love to hear from you.

📌 Save this post as a reminder: You don’t have to carry this alone.

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #HealingEmotions #EmotionalFreedom #feelyourfeelings #SelfCompassionJourney #BreakingGenerationalCycles #SafeSpacesMatter
#BlackMentalHealthMatters #InnerHealingWork #EmotionalWellness

You’ve been in survival mode for so long that it feels like second nature.

But here’s the thing: survival mode is a temporary state, not a permanent home. 🏡

💡 Real strength isn’t about how much you can endure—it’s about breaking free from the cycles that exhaust you.

It’s okay to rest.
It’s okay to ask for support.
It’s okay to let go of the weight you’ve been carrying.
Your worth isn’t defined by how much you can handle. It’s defined by the care you give yourself and the life you allow yourself to live. 🌱

💬 What’s one way you’re choosing to step out of survival mode today? Let me know in the comments.

👉🏿 Tag a friend who needs this reminder, and save this reel for when you need it most.

#SurvivalMode #StrengthAndHealing #EmotionalWellbeing #SelfCareJourney #HealingTogether #BoundariesMatter #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Did you grow up feeling like the responsible one? The fixer? The one who held everything together?

Parentification happens when a child is forced into an adult role—whether that meant being the emotional support for a struggling parent, the caregiver for siblings, or the one constantly solving problems far beyond their years. It wasn’t a choice. It was survival.

But growing up too soon comes at a cost. Now, as an adult, you might:
✨ Feel responsible for everyone and everything, even at your own expense.
✨ Struggle to put yourself first, battling guilt or the fear of being ‘selfish.’
✨ Find it hard to set boundaries without feeling like you’re letting someone down.

💛 But here’s the truth: The weight you carried was never yours to hold. And you don’t have to carry it anymore.

Healing starts with recognising that your needs matter too. It’s about learning to put down the burden, little by little, and reclaim the parts of you that were left behind—the playful, carefree, deserving parts.

🌱 This work isn’t easy, but it’s possible—with compassion, patience, and support. You are allowed to create a life where you come first.

💬 Does this resonate? What’s one way you’re learning to release that weight? Let’s talk in the comments.

📌 Save this as a reminder: You don’t have to carry it alone.

#ParentificationHealing #ChildhoodTrauma #BreakingTheCycle #InnerChildHealing #EmotionalFreedom #BoundariesAreKindness #HealingIsPossible #CompassionateGrowth #SelfLoveJourney #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Let’s get real for a second.

It’s easy to forget that therapists are human too—especially when we’re sitting calmly in the chair, holding space for your hardest moments.
But here’s the truth (that no one really talks about):
We’re not invincible. We’re not perfect. And we’re not above the work.

Here are some things you might not know about your therapist 👇🏿

✨ We’re listening deeply—to your words and what’s underneath them.
✨ We care. More than you might think.
✨ We don’t have all the answers (and that’s okay).
✨ Many of us have our own therapists—because we believe in this work too.
✨ We don’t have it all together. Healing is an ongoing journey—for us, as well as you.
✨ Sometimes, we think about you after session—hoping you're being gentle with yourself.
✨ We feel honoured when you trust us with your story.

If you’ve ever wondered what’s really going on behind the therapist chair—this is it.
We’re not here to fix you. We’re here to walk beside you.

Because healing is human work. And we’re in it together. 💛

📢 If you’re searching for an emotionally available therapist who gets it—especially as someone navigating trauma, identity, or people-pleasing—my books are open.

💻 Click the link in bio to book your consultation today.

#TherapistWhoGetsIt #TherapyForPeoplePleasers
#TherapyForBlackWomen #WOCMentalHealth
#SelfCompassionJourney #HealingInProgress #BoundariesAreKind #VulnerabilityIsPower #YouAreNotAlone #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Abuse doesn’t have to be your legacy. The cycle ends with you.

It starts with recognising what’s been normalised—harsh words, control, neglect—and making the hard but powerful choice to do things differently. It won’t always be easy, and it won’t always be perfect, but every step you take matters.

🌱 Breaking the cycle might look like:
✨ Speaking to yourself with kindness instead of self-criticism.
✨ Pausing to listen instead of reacting in anger.
✨ Choosing relationships built on mutual respect and safety.
✨ Resting without guilt.
✨ Exploring therapy to unlearn harmful beliefs and patterns.

Breaking the cycle isn’t just about what you stop—it’s about what you create. A life rooted in love, care, and dignity—for yourself and for whoever comes next.

💛 Save this as a reminder: You are the cycle breaker. And you don’t have to do it alone.

#BreakingCyclesOfAbuse #GenerationalHealing #TraumaRecovery #HealingJourney #BreakingTheCycle #EmotionalHealing #SelfCompassion #TraumaAwareness #SelfAcceptanceJourney #RelationalHealing #HealingFromAbuse #BoundariesMatter #HealingIsPossible #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Do you feel like you’re the one everyone leans on but have no one to lean on yourself?

Being the strong one can feel isolating. 💭

You show up for everyone, but when you need support, it’s like the world forgets that you’re human too.

This pressure to always be strong might leave you feeling unseen, unsupported, and silently carrying the weight of your world.

But let me remind you: true strength doesn’t mean carrying it all alone. It’s knowing when to put the load down and say, “I can’t do this on my own.”

✨ You are worthy of care.
✨ You deserve spaces where you can be soft.
✨ Strength is just as much about receiving as it is about giving.

💬 Let’s talk about it in the comments: how do you remind yourself it’s okay to lean on others?

👉🏿 Share this post with someone who needs to know they’re not alone in their strength.

#StrongButExhausted #EmotionalResilience #BoundariesAreSelfCare #HealingTogether #SelfCompassion #TherapyJourney #TheSelfLoveTherapist

💔 Did emotions feel like a foreign language in your home?

Emotional unavailability is often a silent legacy of intergenerational trauma—shaping the way we connect, express, and even protect ourselves. But here’s the thing: it’s not your fault, and it doesn’t have to define you.

✨ Maybe love felt distant. Maybe survival took priority over softness. These patterns once served a purpose, but now? They might be keeping you from the connection you deeply crave.

🌱 Healing begins with awareness. In this carousel, we’ll explore:
1️⃣ How emotional unavailability gets passed down
2️⃣ Signs it might be showing up in your life
3️⃣ Steps to start shifting these patterns

💛 You are not broken. You are learning, unlearning, and finding your way back to yourself. It’s never too late to rewrite the story.

Save this post if it resonates, and let’s break the cycle together. 🙌🏾

#HealingGenerations #EmotionalHealing #SelfAwarenessJourney #TraumaRecovery #BreakingTheCycle #IntergenerationalHealing #EmotionalAvailability #SelfCompassion #BoundariesMatter #HealingIsPossible #TheSelfLoveTherapist

She doesn’t know it yet, but she’s about to stop hiding parts of herself, find her voice, and build a life that aligns with who she truly is. 💛

Starting my counselling practice has been one of the most meaningful steps of my life. Every day, I get to help clients untangle years of people-pleasing, unlearn survival patterns, and reconnect with the parts of themselves they’ve had to silence to stay safe.

To the one who’s always holding it together for everyone else—you don’t have to carry it all alone. You don’t have to shrink yourself to be loved. Healing is possible, and you are so worthy of it. 💛

Let’s talk: What’s one part of yourself you’re ready to reclaim? Drop a comment, I’d love to hear from you. ⬇️

#AuthenticSelf #FindYourVoice #StopPeoplePleasing #TherapistForMarginalisedGroups #EmbraceYourPower #HealingJourney #SelfLoveJourney #TherapyForWomen #BreakGenerationalPatterns #OvercomeFear #MentalHealthAwareness #TherapistTips #PersonalGrowth #EmpowermentJourney #YouAreWorthy #TheSelfLoveTherapist

So, you’ve been following me for a while (or maybe you just got here 👋🏾 —let’s make this official! 💛

I’m Phillippa, an integrative therapist who helps people unlearn patterns that keep them feeling stuck, small, and exhausted. Therapy with me is honest, compassionate, and transformative—no judgement, no pressure, just space to show up as you are.

When I’m not deep in conversation about healing, you’ll find me sipping tea, dancing to 90s R&B, and pretending spiders don’t exist. 🕷️🚫

💬 Now your turn—tell me one fun fact about YOU! Do you have a kitchen dance anthem? A weird fear? A self-care ritual you swear by? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to know!

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #TherapyForHealing #YouAreEnough #RadicalSelfCompassion #BoundariesMatter #InnerHealing #HealingIsMessy #SelfAcceptance #TraumaRecovery

Do you ever say ‘yes’ when every part of you screams ‘no’? Overcommitting can feel like a protective shield—but it often leaves us empty, drained, and disconnected from ourselves.

It’s not about being lazy or irresponsible—it’s about carrying the weight of fear, guilt, or the need to be ‘perfect.’ And somewhere along the way, we forget that our worth isn’t tied to how much we do for others. 💛

You deserve to prioritise your needs and desires, say ‘no’ without guilt, and honour your time and energy. It’s okay to stop being everything for everyone. Healing is about unlearning the belief that your value comes from being constantly available, constantly giving, and never taking the time to just be.

Start small—set one boundary today. Whether it’s saying ‘no’ to an extra task at work, or turning down an invitation that doesn’t serve you. You’re allowed to choose yourself.

This isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being compassionate with yourself. The more you practice this, the more you’ll begin to reclaim your peace and emotional freedom. 💫

🌿 What’s one step you’re taking today to reclaim your time and energy?

💬 Drop a comment and let me know—I’m here to support you.

👉🏿 Save this post as a reminder that your needs matter.

#Overcommitting #PeoplePleasing #SettingBoundaries #EmotionalHealth #HealingJourney #SelfCompassion #TakeUpSpace #MentalWellness #BreakTheCycle #TherapyJourney #TheSelfLoveTherapist"

Realising that we’ve hurt ourselves—through self-hate, self-neglect, or harsh self-judgment—can be gut-wrenching.

The way we’ve spoken to ourselves.
The ways we’ve denied ourselves rest, love, or care.
The times we’ve silenced our own needs to keep others comfortable.

💭 “How could I do this to myself?”
💭 “Why didn’t I know better?”
💭 “There must be something wrong with me.”

Here comes shame—loud, heavy, and unforgiving. But here’s the thing: you weren’t trying to harm yourself. You were surviving with the tools you had at the time.

Now you know more. Now you can do things differently.

Healing isn’t about never making mistakes—it’s about choosing self-compassion over self-punishment when you do.

✨ You can unlearn the self-criticism that was never yours to carry.
✨ You can forgive yourself for what you didn’t know before.
✨ You can hold space for your humanity—even when you slip back into old patterns.

Because healing isn’t a straight line. It’s messy, imperfect, and full of trying again, and again, and again. 💛

💬 Have you ever struggled with forgiving yourself? Let’s talk in the comments.

📌 Save this post as a reminder: Self-compassion is part of healing—not a reward for when you’ve ‘fixed’ yourself. 💛

#SelfCompassion #ForgiveYourself #HealingIsMessy #InnerHealing #MentalHealthMatters #EmotionalWellbeing #BreakTheCycle #SelfWorth #GrowthIsNotLinear #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Therapy can be like: “Well…that was an unexpected punch to the gut.” 👀💥

Some truths hurt, but they also heal. These are just a few things I’ve said to clients this week—because sometimes, the patterns we’re stuck in aren’t as obvious until we name them.

👉🏾 Swipe through & tell me which one hit home the most. Or, if therapy has ever served you a truth you weren’t ready for (but needed), drop it in the comments. Let’s talk. 💬✨

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #TherapyTalk #EmotionalHealing #BoundariesMatter #SelfCompassion #InnerWork #HealingIsMessy #TherapyIsCool

Overcommitting isn’t just exhausting—it’s a slow, silent drain on your peace. 😮‍💨

You keep saying ‘yes’ because it feels easier than saying ‘no.’ Because you don’t want to let anyone down. Because somewhere along the way, you learned that your worth is tied to how much you can carry. But at what cost?

✨ The stress. The anxiety. The resentment.
✨ The quiet exhaustion of giving and giving… until there’s nothing left for you.

I see you. And I want you to hear this: You are not meant to hold everything. 🤍

Saying ‘no’ isn’t selfish. It’s not rude. It’s not something to feel guilty about. It’s a love letter to your peace. It’s choosing yourself in a world that’s taught you to overextend.

So, what’s one thing you can say ‘no’ to today? One small way to take your energy back? 🌿

💬 Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear. Let’s normalise boundaries together.

📌 Save this as a reminder: You don’t have to earn your rest.

#BoundariesAreLove #SayNoWithLove #OvercommitmentFatigue #ChooseYourself #HealingJourney #TheSelfLoveTherapist #BreakTheCycle #SelfCompassion #TherapyIsSelfCare

Ever been complimented for something that’s actually just trauma in disguise? 🫠

Being “strong” is cute until you realise it’s just chronic self-neglect with good PR. If you’re tired of being the independent, put-together, emotional support human for everyone but yourself, you’re not alone. 💛

Drop an emoji that sums up your reaction! ⬇️

#PeoplePleaserRecovery #TherapyHumour #TheSelfLoveTherapist #BurnoutIsNotACompliment #HealingIsMessy

Emotional resilience isn’t about pretending you’re fine or forcing yourself to push through. It’s about feeling everything—the heaviness, the doubt, the exhaustion—and still finding a way to care for yourself through it. Resilience isn’t about never struggling; it’s about learning how to support yourself when you do.

Here are 5 small but powerful ways to nurture your emotional strength in tough times:

✨ Acknowledge your emotions.
Your feelings aren’t "too much"—they’re valid. Give yourself permission to feel without guilt. Suppressing them doesn’t make you stronger; honouring them does.

💛 Speak to yourself with kindness.
If you wouldn’t say it to a friend, don’t say it to yourself. Swap the self-criticism for compassion—you're doing the best you can.

🤝 Lean on your people.
You don’t have to carry it all alone. Let the ones who love you show up for you—you are worthy of support.

🌿 Focus on what’s within your control.
When life feels chaotic, small, intentional actions can help you feel more grounded. One step at a time is still progress.

🌅 Find tiny moments of gratitude.
Even in the hardest seasons, there are glimmers of light—a deep breath, a song you love, a moment of stillness. Let them remind you that beauty still exists.

Resilience isn’t about being unshakeable. It’s about showing up for yourself, even when life feels heavy. And every time you do, you prove to yourself that you are capable of so much more than you think.

💭 Which of these speaks to you today? Or do you have your own go-to strategy for staying grounded? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’re showing up for yourself. 💜

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #EmotionalResilience #YouAreEnough #HealingInProgress #InnerStrength #NavigatingLife #SelfCompassion #MindfulGrowth #BuildingResilience #SmallStepsBigChange

Overwhelm isn’t just about being busy—it’s about losing sight of your needs.

Have you ever felt like there’s no space for you in your own life? When you’re constantly saying yes—at work, with friends, in your family—it can feel like you’re running on autopilot.

Overcommitting often starts with good intentions: wanting to help, avoiding conflict, or proving your worth. But the cost? Exhaustion, resentment, and a quiet voice inside asking, “When will it be my turn?”

Here’s a truth that might feel uncomfortable: You don’t have to prove your value by doing it all. Your worth isn’t tied to how much you give to others.

🌱 Ready to shift the narrative? Start small:

1️⃣ Pause before saying yes—give yourself time to consider your capacity.
2️⃣ Practise saying no with kindness but firmness. (It’s an act of self-respect!)
3️⃣ Check in with yourself regularly: What do you need today?

You are worthy of rest, boundaries, and prioritising yourself. Overcommitting isn’t your fault—but you have the power to change it.

💬 Which of these steps feels the hardest for you? Let’s unpack it together in the comments below.

👉🏿 Save this post as a reminder that your needs matter too.

#Overcommitting #EmotionalWellbeing #BoundariesMatter #PrioritiseYourself #SelfCompassion #HealingJourney #BreakingPatterns #RelationalHealing #TherapyThoughts #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Five years ago, I was deep in survival mode. People-pleasing like my life depended on it. Struggling to set boundaries. Constantly shapeshifting to fit into spaces that weren’t made for me. Exhausted—but convinced that’s just how life had to be.

Now? I trust myself. I set boundaries without drowning in guilt. I show up as me—fully, unapologetically. And you know what? The world didn’t end. In fact, life feels so much lighter. 💜

Healing isn’t about becoming someone new. It’s about finally allowing yourself to be who you were always meant to be. You don’t have to live in survival mode forever. You deserve more.

💭 What’s one way you’ve grown since 2020? Let’s reflect in the comments—I’d love to celebrate with you! ⬇️✨

#PeoplePleaserRecovery #BoundariesMatter #SelfAcceptanceJourney #HealingIsPossible #TherapyForTheSoul #RelationalHealing #TheSelfLoveTherapist #5yearsago

Growth isn’t always a grand aha moment. Most of the time, it’s subtle, quiet—the kind of change that sneaks up on you. It’s in the way you pause before reacting, the way you trust yourself more, the way you choose differently than you would have before.

Take a second. Think back to you a year ago.

💭 What were they carrying?
💭 What felt impossible back then?

Now look at you. 🌱
✨ You’ve set boundaries that once felt terrifying.
✨ You’ve spoken up in moments you’d usually shrink.
✨ You’ve softened towards yourself, even when it felt uncomfortable.

These moments might seem small, but they are everything. They are proof of your strength, your resilience, and your capacity to heal.

💬 What’s one quiet way you’ve grown this year that you’re proud of? Drop it in the comments—let’s celebrate together.

📌 Save this for the days when you forget just how far you’ve come. 💜

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #LookHowFarYouveCome #CelebrateYourGrowth #HealingIsntLinear #EmotionalResilience #RadicalSelfCompassion #GrowthIsMessy #SelfAcceptanceJourney #InnerHealing #SmallStepsBigChange

Self-compassion isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a necessity. But let’s be real: it often feels hardest to access when we need it most. When the inner critic is loud, when the weight of the world feels unbearable, when we think we’ve failed.

But here’s the truth: those are the exact moments that need your kindness, not your judgment. Here’s how to start embracing radical self-compassion in your daily life:
💜 Speak to yourself like someone you love.
If a friend came to you in tears, would you shame them? Call them a failure? No chance. You’d offer them warmth, understanding, and care. Imagine how much lighter life would feel if you treated yourself the same way.
💜 Set boundaries rooted in self-respect.
Saying no isn’t selfish—it’s self-preservation. Every time you protect your peace, you remind yourself: I matter, too. And you do.
💜 Let go of perfection.
You weren’t put on this earth to get everything right. Mistakes help you grow; imperfections make you human. The sooner you release the need to be “perfect,” the freer you’ll feel.
💜 Celebrate the quiet victories.
Healing isn’t just about big breakthroughs. It’s in the small moments—pausing before reacting, making it through a tough day, choosing yourself. Those wins matter.
💜 Rest without guilt.
Rest isn’t a reward—it’s a necessity. You don’t have to earn the right to slow down. Your worth isn’t measured by how productive you are. Give yourself the love of rest.

Radical self-compassion isn’t about “fixing” yourself. It’s about being with yourself—especially on the hard days. It’s a steady, soft reminder: you are enough, exactly as you are. 💜

💭 What’s one small way you’ve chosen self-compassion recently? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to celebrate you! ⬇️✨

#RadicalSelfCompassion #YouAreEnough #SelfLoveJourney #HealingIsMessy #RestWithoutGuilt #CelebrateSmallWins #BoundariesAreHealing #BeKindToYourself #TheSelfLoveTherapist

You know that mystery container sitting in the back of your fridge? The one you forgot about until you catch a whiff of something off? Yeah… the past is kinda like that. 💭

You can close the lid, push it to the back, and pretend it’s not there—but that doesn’t mean it’s gone. It lingers.

It shows up in ways you don’t expect—
💭 In relationships.
💭 In self-doubt.
💭 In the way you struggle to set boundaries or trust yourself.

🔹 That fear of rejection? It didn’t start today.
🔹 That anxiety when you slow down? It has roots.
🔹 That pattern you keep repeating? There’s a reason.

Therapy isn’t about digging up the past just to sit in it—it’s about finally opening the lid, dealing with what’s been festering, and making space for something fresh. Because you deserve a life (and a mind) that doesn’t smell like three-week-old leftovers. 🏡✨

💬 What’s one thing you’ve had to ‘unpack’ in your healing journey? Drop it in the comments. ⬇️ Let’s make space for growth together.

📌 Save this as a reminder: Healing isn’t about dwelling on the past—it’s about clearing out what still lingers.

#HealingTakesTime #EmotionalAwareness #TherapyForGrowth #UnpackingThePast #InnerHealing #SelfCompassionMatters #MentalHealthJourney #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Some cycles feel impossible to break—like invisible chains made of unspoken rules, old wounds, and inherited survival strategies. The ones that whisper, "This is just how it is." But here’s the truth: it doesn’t have to be.

Breaking the cycle isn’t about blaming the past—it’s about choosing something different for yourself and the generations to come. It starts with that one powerful moment of clarity: "Wait… this pattern isn’t mine to carry." Then comes the deeper work of asking:
💭 How has this shaped my choices?
💭 How does this show up in my relationships?
💭 What version of me exists beyond this pattern?

Healing looks different for everyone. Maybe you’re…
✨ Sitting with emotions you were taught to suppress.
✨ Questioning beliefs that never felt like your own.
✨ Setting boundaries, even when it feels uncomfortable.
✨ Learning to rest without guilt.

Each small act of healing is a radical act of resistance—a reminder that change is possible. It won’t always be easy. It won’t always be linear. But every time you choose differently, you rewrite the story.

Want a journal prompt to help you unpack generational cycles? DM me ‘HEAL’ and I’ll send you one.

📌 Save this as a reminder that healing starts with you.

#BreakingGenerationalCycles #HealingIsPossible #InnerWork #GenerationalHealing #RadicalSelfCare #EmotionalHealing #EndTheCycle #SelfCompassionMatters #TheSelfLoveTherapist #ReclaimYourStory

We’ve all had those cringe moments looking back at our past selves—questionable choices, awkward phases, situations we really should have walked away from sooner. 😅 But here’s the thing…

Your past self wasn’t a mistake. They were a survivor.
They navigated things you once thought were impossible. They made choices with the knowledge, tools, and support they had at the time. And because of them, you’re here today.

✨ Healing isn’t about erasing the past—it’s about honouring the resilience it took to keep going.
✨ You don’t have to love everything your past self did, but you can still thank them for carrying you through.

💛 Next time you catch yourself cringing, pause.

Instead of judging, try this: "Thank you for getting me here." You’ve grown so much.

💬 What’s one thing your past self did that you’re grateful for today? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to celebrate that with you.

📌 Save this for when you need a reminder: every version of you deserves compassion.

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #HealingWithCompassion #InnerGrowth #SelfAcceptance #RadicalSelfLove #TherapyForHealing #YouAreEnough #EmbraceYourJourney #EmotionalWellbeing #BreakingCycles

What does healing actually look like? Spoiler: There’s no one way. And it’s never a straight line.

Healing might look like…
💛 Saying “no” for the first time without over-explaining.
💛 Crying through a tough day instead of pushing it down.
💛 Finally feeling comfortable in your own skin.
💛 Leaving a toxic relationship, even when it hurts.
💛 Taking a nap without guilt because rest is resistance.
💛 Dancing in your kitchen to 90s R&B (highly recommend).

Some days, healing feels like huge breakthroughs—other days, it’s just getting through the day. Both are progress.

There’s no “right” way to heal, and messy healing is still healing. Let go of the pressure to have it all figured out. Your journey is yours, and it’s unfolding exactly as it needs to.

💬 What’s one small way you’ve honoured your healing lately? Let me know below.

📌 Save this for the days when healing feels slow—it’s still happening.

#HealingIsMessy #NonLinearHealing #SelfCompassionMatters #EmotionalWellbeing #PersonalGrowth #InnerHealing #RadicalSelfCare #EmotionalResilience #TheSelfLoveTherapist #ProgressNotPerfection

Internalised oppression convinces us we’re the problem—but we never were. 💡 When we absorb messages that tell us we’re ‘too much’ or ‘not enough,’ we start policing ourselves before anyone else has to.

Unlearning this is resistance. Healing is seeing yourself clearly—without the lies of oppression distorting your reflection.

Drop a 💛 if you’re in the process of reclaiming your voice.

#UnlearningOppression #BreakTheCycle #HealingFromWithin #RadicalSelfAcceptance #DecolonisingMentalHealth #SelfCompassionMatters #TakeUpSpace #MentalHealthAwareness #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Ever felt like you’re too much and not enough at the same time? Like you have to shrink parts of yourself just to belong? Yeah… I’ve been there.

For so long, I thought I had to edit myself to fit into spaces that were never built for me. I believed my voice was too loud, my culture too different, my presence too much. So I dimmed my light—hoping that would make things easier.

But here’s the truth: you don’t have to choose between being yourself and belonging. Real healing happens when you stop making yourself smaller for the comfort of others.

✨ You deserve to take up space—fully, unapologetically.
✨ You don’t have to fit into a box that was never made for you.
✨ Every part of you—your culture, your quirks, your truth—is worthy of love and belonging.

The moment I stopped leaving parts of myself behind, I finally started feeling whole. And you can too.

💬 What’s one part of yourself you’re reclaiming today? Drop it in the comments—I want to celebrate that with you.

📌 Save this as a reminder: you don’t need to shrink to be loved.

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #HealingWithoutShrinking #TakeUpSpace #SelfAcceptance #RadicalSelfLove #AuthenticityIsStrength #HealingJourney #CulturalPride #MarginalisedVoices #UnlearningToBelong

Self-care doesn’t have to be Western. Capitalistic. Individualistic.

Your healing can be rooted in your identity, culture, and ancestral wisdom.

🌿 Maybe your self-care is movement. Dance, yoga, martial arts—practices passed down through generations.

🕊️ Maybe your self-care is spiritual. Prayer, meditation, connecting with ancestors.

🍲 Maybe your self-care is nourishment. Cooking the foods you grew up with, sitting down for a meal without rushing.

👥 Maybe your self-care is communal. Sitting with your people, laughing, holding space for each other.

📖 Maybe your self-care is storytelling. Reading books by people who share your lived experience, writing your own truth.

Your self-care does not need to be palatable to be valid.

💬 What cultural or ancestral self-care practice do you want to reclaim? Tell me below!

📌 Save this as a reminder that your healing can honour every part of you.

#AncestralHealing #CulturalSelfCare #ReclaimingWellness #HealingThroughIdentity #RadicalSelfCare #CommunityCare #GenerationalHealing #SelfCareForUs #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Therapy isn’t about “fixing” you—because you were never broken. It’s about finally setting things down instead of carrying the weight alone.

Maybe you’ve been holding it together for so long that letting go feels impossible. Maybe you’ve learned to push through, even when you’re exhausted. But here’s the truth: you don’t have to carry it all.

Therapy gives you a space to untangle the heaviness, piece by piece. No judgment. No rush. Just room to breathe, to process, to make sense of what’s been weighing you down.

Healing isn’t about becoming a “new” version of yourself. It’s about reconnecting with who you’ve always been—before the world told you to shrink, to overextend, to put yourself last.

💛 What’s one thing you’re ready to put down? Drop it in the comments—let’s honour every small step toward healing.

📌 Save this for when you need a reminder: you don’t have to do this alone.

#TherapyForHealing #BreakingCycles #EmotionalWellbeing #HealingIsMessy #RelationalTrauma #SelfTrust #BoundariesMatter #TheSelfLoveTherapist #InnerHealing #YouAreEnough #TheSelfLoveTherapist

💡 Self-love isn’t just about spa days and positive affirmations—it’s about how you show up for yourself every single day.

It’s paying your bills on time so you don’t wake up anxious.
It’s choosing food that nourishes your body instead of punishing it.
It’s setting boundaries, even when it feels uncomfortable.
It’s keeping the promises you make to yourself—not just to others.

Real self-love is in the small, unglamorous moments. It’s in the way you talk to yourself when you make a mistake. It’s how you prioritise rest without guilt. It’s making choices that support you—not just the version of you that pleases everyone else.

And here’s the beautiful part: when you honour yourself, you show up for the people around you with deeper compassion and authenticity. Self-love isn’t selfish—it’s the foundation of every healthy relationship, from friendships to community care.

❤️ This Valentine’s, let’s celebrate self-love in all its forms. What’s one way you’re showing up for yourself today? Drop it in the comments or save this for a reminder when you need it.

#SelfLoveInAction #RadicalSelfLove #EmotionalWellbeing #SelfCompassionMatters #AuthenticLiving #HolisticHealing #BoundariesAreLove #InnerHealingJourney #GroundedSelfCare #TheSelfLoveTherapist

What if the parts of you that feel hardest to embrace are the very ones holding your greatest power?

For so many years, I tried to fit into spaces that weren’t meant for me. I left parts of myself behind—my culture, my voice, my true self—believing I had to shrink to belong. 💔

But here’s what I’ve learned: healing doesn’t happen when we hide. It begins when we stop pretending to be someone we’re not.

🌿 Healing begins when we reclaim the parts of ourselves we were taught to reject—those parts that make us unique, powerful, and whole.
🌿 Healing begins when we allow ourselves to take up space, to exist fully, unapologetically, just as we are.

You are not too much. You are whole, you are worthy, and you are enough—just as you are.

💬 What’s one thing you’ve embraced about yourself recently, something that once felt hard to accept? Share it in the comments—let’s celebrate that growth together.

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #RadicalSelfLove #IntersectionalHealing #MarginalisedVoicesMatter #HealingJourney #SelfAcceptanceJourney #CulturalIdentity #AuthenticityIsStrength #EmbraceYourIdentity

Healing isn’t just about letting go of the past; it’s about deeply understanding where you come from and how it shapes who you are today.

When we explore our family roots, we gain insight into patterns, resilience, and even unspoken pain. By embracing this connection, we can create meaningful change for ourselves and future generations.

🌿 Here’s how you can start this transformative journey:

1️⃣ Explore Your Family Story
Ask questions, listen to the stories of your elders, and dig into your family’s history. What were the challenges they faced? What strengths got them through? By learning their truths, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how their experiences influence you.

2️⃣ Identify Patterns and Cycles
Take note of recurring behaviours, beliefs, or emotional responses passed down through generations. Are there cycles of silence, perfectionism, or self-sacrifice? Recognising these patterns is the first step to transforming them.

3️⃣ Embrace Your Role in Healing
Healing isn’t about blaming—it’s about shifting. You have the power to choose a different way, to rewrite the narrative, and to let self-compassion guide you. Even the smallest acts of awareness and change ripple through your family system.

4️⃣ Honour Your Roots
Acknowledge the strength and resilience that runs through your family tree, even in its struggles. While you create new traditions or ways of being, hold space for gratitude and pride in where you come from.

✨ Healing is a process, not a destination. By reconnecting with your family’s roots, you’re not only understanding their story—you’re writing the next chapter. Every step forward is a testament to your courage and commitment to breaking cycles while building bridges for future generations.

💬 What’s one thing you’ve learned about yourself through exploring your family story? Share your reflections in the comments—I’d love to hear.

Need support exploring this journey? I offer online therapy to guide you. DM me to learn more.

#FamilyHealing #GenerationalGrowth #EmbraceHealing #IntergenerationalTrauma #SelfCompassion #BreakTheCycle #FamilyRoots #HealingJourney #TraumaRecovery #OnlineTherapy #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Some days just feel heavy, don’t they? It’s easy to spiral into “this whole day is ruined,” but what if you gave yourself permission to pause instead? 🌿

Here are 5 simple ways to reset when everything feels like too much. Think of them as little lifelines to pull you back to yourself.

Save this post for the next time you need a reminder that it’s okay to slow down and start again—and feel free to pass it along to someone who might need it too. 💛

✨ What’s one thing that helps you reset when a day feels off? Let’s share ideas in the comments and help each other out.

#MentalHealthTips #ResetYourDay #EmotionalWellbeing #MindfulnessMatters #SelfCareDaily #SmallStepsBigChange #PauseBreatheReset #EmotionalResilience #TheSelfLoveTherapist

To the woman who’s been told she’s too much, too loud, or too different—this is for you. I see you, and I feel you.

You don’t have to leave parts of yourself behind to belong. I know it can feel like you need to silence your culture, your voice, your story just to fit in—but here’s the truth: those parts of you are not weaknesses. They are your power, your resilience, your essence. 🌟

It’s time to stop dimming your light for the comfort of others. Here’s how to start embracing all of who you are:

1️⃣ Reclaim your roots—There’s strength in remembering where you come from. Your story and history are pieces of you that no one can take away.
2️⃣ Challenge the voice of shame—The narrative that tells you you're "too much" is a lie. Rewrite it with love, compassion, and truth.
3️⃣ Honour your complexity—You are beautifully layered. Your intersectionality is what makes you extraordinary, not burdensome.
4️⃣ Find spaces that celebrate you—You deserve to be seen and honoured for all you are, not just the parts that fit the mould.
5️⃣ Practice self-compassion—It’s okay to be a work in progress. You are allowed to grow at your own pace, without shame or guilt.
You have every right to take up space in this world, just as you are.

💬 What’s one way you’re showing up fully this week, embracing all parts of you? Share it in the comments—I’d love to hear from you, and celebrate your journey together.

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #IntersectionalityMatters #RadicalSelfAcceptance #HealingJourney #EmbraceYourIdentity #MarginalisedVoices #EmotionalHealing #SelfCompassion #CulturalHealing

Growth doesn’t always come with big breakthroughs or life-changing epiphanies. Sometimes, it’s in the quiet moments—the subtle shifts that no one else sees.

✨ When you pause before people-pleasing and check in with your needs.
✨ When you catch yourself in self-doubt but show up anyway.
✨ When you set a boundary—even if it feels terrifying.
✨ When you no longer seek validation from those who never gave it.
✨ When you show yourself compassion on hard days instead of criticism.

You might not always feel like you're growing, but that doesn’t mean you’re not. Healing is happening in the spaces between.

💛 What’s one quiet sign of growth you’ve noticed in yourself recently? Let’s celebrate it in the comments.

#EmotionalGrowth #HealingJourney #BoundariesAreHealthy #SelfCompassion #Authenticity #MentalHealthMatters #EmotionalWellness #PersonalGrowth #SelfHealing #TherapyJourney #BreakTheCycle #GrowthIsMessy #TheSelfLoveTherapist

January was… a lot. Here’s how to process it with self-compassion.

January might have been a rollercoaster—highs, lows, or a mix of both—but every part of your journey is valid. Taking time to reflect allows you to acknowledge your growth, honour your emotions, and step into February with intention.

💡 Reflection Prompts:

✨ What felt like a personal win this month?
✨ What challenges came up, and how did you move through them?
✨ What’s one thing you’re truly proud of?

Reminder: Growth isn’t linear. Even the small steps and messy progress count. Give yourself grace as you continue evolving. 💛

🌱 Let’s carry these lessons forward with self-compassion and intention. 🌱

➡️ Swipe through the carousel for guided prompts to help you reflect!

#SelfReflection #MindfulJournaling #EmotionalHealing #SelfCompassionJourney #InnerGrowth #PersonalDevelopment #MentalWellbeing #TherapyIsHealing #GrowthMindset #HealingFromWithin #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Struggling to name what you're feeling? You’re not alone.

If no one ever helped you make sense of your emotions growing up, how could you be expected to just know what you're feeling now?
In emotionally supportive households, caregivers help children name, express, and regulate emotions. They teach that feelings—both comfortable and uncomfortable—are valid and manageable.

But if you grew up in a household where emotions were ignored, dismissed, or even punished, you likely learned to push them down. You may have had to disconnect from your feelings to maintain relationships with the people who were supposed to care for you.

And that survival tool? It worked—for a time.

But now, as an adult, you might:

💭 Struggle to name your emotions.
💭 Feel overwhelmed or numb in emotional situations.
💭 Shut down when others express their emotions.
💭 Have difficulty identifying your needs.

There’s nothing wrong with you. You are not broken. Your nervous system adapted to keep you safe.

The good news? You can gently reconnect with your emotions—without judgment, without force.

🌱 Try pausing throughout the day to notice physical sensations.
🌱 Ask yourself: What might this feeling be trying to tell me?
🌱 Validate your experience: It makes sense that this feels difficult.

Reconnecting takes time. There’s no rush. No “right” way to do this. Just small steps toward understanding yourself in a way you deserved to experience all along. ❤️

Do you struggle to identify your emotions? Let me know in the comments.👇🏿

#EmotionalHealing #ChildhoodTrauma #SelfAwareness #EmotionalNeglect #InnerChildHealing #TherapySupport #MentalHealthMatters #HealingJourney #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Compliments feel good, don’t they? But what happens when they stop coming? 🤔

Relying on others to validate your worth can leave you feeling drained. What if, instead, you gave yourself the kindness and recognition you’re waiting for? No applause required—just a moment to remind yourself of your own value.

So, here’s a little challenge: What’s one kind thing you can say to yourself today? Drop it in the comments or whisper it to yourself—either way, it counts. 💙

#SelfValidation #YouAreEnough #SpeakToYourself #SelfCompassion #TheSelfLoveTherapist #InnerCritic #SelfWorthJourney #MentalHealthMatters #OwnYourNarrative #HealingStartsWithin

The world feels heavier today, but for many of us, this moment isn’t an isolated tragedy—it’s the latest in a long, painful catalogue of human rights abuses and genocides across the globe. 💔

We all saw what Elon did. The display of the Nazi salute wasn’t a mistake or an act of excitement—it was deliberate. It was exactly what he meant it to be: a symbol of alignment, of power, of defiance against accountability.

We’ve seen this before. The rise of oppressive ideologies, the erosion of protections for marginalised communities, and the silence of those in power—it’s not new. For decades, the world has been shifting further to the right, emboldening hate and injustice in plain sight. And while it’s heartbreaking, it’s not surprising. That truth carries its own kind of weight.

It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. To feel grief, anger, or even numbness. These emotions are valid because what we’re witnessing is real. But amid the pain, we must find ways to protect our spirit and keep moving forward.

Here are 5 ways to cope and ground yourself in the face of injustice:

1️⃣ Pause to feel it. Honour your emotions—they’re a sign of your humanity.
2️⃣ Set boundaries with the news. Stay informed, but protect your mental health.
3️⃣ Lean into community. Share, grieve, and organise with those who understand.
4️⃣ Find your anchor. Whether it’s prayer, nature, art, or reflection, return to what keeps you grounded.
5️⃣ Act where you can. Your voice, presence, and small acts of resistance matter.

This isn’t just about surviving—it’s about finding ways to keep showing up for ourselves, for each other, and for the causes that matter.

💬 What’s helping you find hope or grounding right now? Let’s build that space together in the comments.

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #RadicalSelfCompassion #HealingInCommunity #MarginalisedVoicesMatter #HumanRights #EmotionalHealing #GroundingInCrisis #ResilienceJourney #IntersectionalHealing

Emotions are messages, not burdens. Are you listening to what yours are telling you? 🧠

It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of life and push our feelings aside. But every emotion, even the painful ones, carries an important message. 🌿

When you allow yourself to feel, instead of suppressing or ignoring what’s coming up, you’re creating space for healing. You’re telling yourself: You matter. Your emotions matter. 💛

This isn’t about having it all together—it’s about honouring yourself in your messiness, your imperfection. It’s okay to sit with discomfort, because that’s where growth happens.

Save this as a reminder on those days when it feels too much, and share it with someone who might need permission to feel too. You’re not alone on this journey. 💫

#FeelYourFeelings #EmotionalWellness #SelfCompassion #TheSelfLoveTherapist #YouMatter #HealingJourney #EmotionalHealth #SelfValidation #MentalHealthSupport

🌱 Ever told yourself, "Other people have it worse," and buried your feelings under guilt? Let’s stop right there.

Minimising your emotions doesn’t make you kinder, stronger, or more selfless. It just keeps you stuck, disconnected, and carrying feelings that deserve your care.

Try this mantra: *“Other people’s struggles matter, but so do mine.”* 💛 Because it’s not an either-or—it’s about holding space for yourself and others.

So, what’s one emotion you’ve been brushing aside lately? Drop it in the comments, and let’s start unpacking together. 👇🏿

#FeelYourFeelings #SelfCompassion #YouMatterToo #EmotionalWellbeing #MentalHealthMatters #CounsellingSupport #FeelItToHealIt #TherapyTools #SelfCareTips #MentalHealthAwareness #TheSelfLoveTherapist

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Phillippa Chinery Counselling

Therapy for Marginalised Communities: A space to Heal, Grow, and Reconnect With Your Authentic Self

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