I work with folks that have learned to survive and navigate the world by making themselves small, putting their heads down, and doing the hard things that no one else will. You are intelligent, resourceful, and strong, so it is tempting to feel like if you try harder, think more, or be less yourself- all your feelings, challenges, or circumstances will change. Often, you find yourself at the end of your rope, exhausted, disappointed, isolated without support, hopeless, and unable to trust anyone- even yourself.

I’m here to tell you, You are not alone. This type of “normal” we accept for ourselves is an extremely common learned response that helps us make sense of our lives and the world so that we are still able to get shit done. This understanding and the work it takes to unlearn these patterns bring relief from the shame, grief, and fear that drives our desire to keep pushing. You deserve to be the fullest version of yourself with all the gentleness, acceptance, and support you dreamed of at the end of that rope.