“What’s the difference?” is a common question when people begin exploring group based mental health support. Support groups and psychotherapy groups are often listed side by side, described in similar language, and sometimes even offered by the same practice. At a glance, they can appear
In her essential book on writing and life, Bird by Bird, Anne Lamott introduces a concept that many consider vital for recovering from perfectionism: “shitty first drafts.” Lamott explains that nearly all good writing begins as something deeply imperfect. You have to start somewhere. You
For many children of immigrants, growing up involved an unspoken contract: our parents sacrificed everything—their homeland, their comfort, their language—so that we could succeed. Our role in this contract is to be grateful, hardworking, and, above all, okay. To struggle with mental health, to experience
The start of a new year often comes with expectations to improve, achieve, or correct something about ourselves. For many Asian Americans, these expectations can feel especially heavy. Cultural messages about discipline, success, family obligation, and perseverance may make New Year’s resolutions feel less like
Many adults who grew up with emotionally immature parents carry a persistent feeling that something about them is “wrong.” They might describe themselves as too sensitive, too needy, too emotional, or, on the other hand, as not emotional enough, too independent, or difficult to connect
There are seasons in life when survival becomes the only goal.Not flourishing.Not growth.Just making it through the day without losing yourself entirely. For many, recovering from narcissistic abuse is one of those seasons. It’s not dramatic the way a movie would portray it.It’s quiet.Invisible, even.Like
Support for Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents For many adult children of emotionally immature parents, the holiday season brings up a mix of anticipation, anxiety, hope, and dread. You may find yourself slipping into old roles, bracing for criticism or volatility, or preparing to
Saying no without guilt, and yes to your own life There’s something sacred about beginning together with a moment of stillness.Before we talk about burnout or boundaries or becoming, let’s slow down enough to notice ourselves. Feel your feet against the ground.Feel the weight of
Somewhere along the way, you became more than a sibling. You became a stand-in parent. You learned to tie shoes and braid hair before you learned what it meant to rest. You fed, bathed, soothed, corrected — all while still trying to grow up yourself.
There’s a kind of love that asks you to stay small.To be the good one. The strong one. The quiet one who never makes trouble. For many eldest daughters in collectivist families, this love is sacred — it’s the heartbeat of belonging. It’s also the
