Relationships.....we all have them with partners, family, socially & at work
Relationships are one of the things we all have in common as human beings.
We are all having relationships of some kind. Relationships can be a source of love, comfort, connection, belonging, security, support and fun, but they can also be our biggest source of upset, difficulty and stress. Relationships are rarely smooth sailing and everyone encounters bumps in the road at some point.
Some of the most common relationship issues we can face
Communication issues: this can encompass a wide range of problems, from difficulty expressing needs and feelings to constant arguing and defensiveness. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, resentment and a lack of intimacy.
Trust issues: trust is the foundation of any strong relationship. When trust is broken due to infidelity, dishonesty or broken promises, it can be incredibly difficult to rebuild.
Differing values or goals: as people grow and change, their values and goals may diverge. This can lead to conflict when partners have different expectations for the future or disagree on major life decisions.
Financial stress: money is a common source of tension in relationships. Disagreements about spending habits, debt or financial goals can cause significant strain.
Intimacy issues: physical and emotional intimacy are crucial for a healthy relationship. However, issues like sexual incompatibility, low libido or emotional distance can create problems.
External stressors: dealing with external factors like workplace stress and anxiety, family issues or health problems can put a strain on even the strongest relationships.
Unrealistic expectations: having unrealistic expectations about relationships can lead to disappointment and frustration. No relationship is perfect and compromise is essential.
Neglect: taking a relationship for granted or neglecting your partner's emotional needs can damage the bond and lead to feelings of loneliness and resentment.
Differing conflict resolution styles: everyone deals with conflict differently. When partners have incompatible ways of addressing disagreements, it can lead to prolonged arguments and unresolved issues.
Abuse: it's crucial to remember that no form of abuse be it physical, emotional, verbal abuse or coercive control is ever acceptable in a relationship. If you find yourself in this situation, please visit Safer Scotland for resources and assistance.
If you are experiencing relationship issues, in sessions, I will guide you through the process of how to resolve them so you can move from coping to thriving, be equipped to have happier and healthier relationships, live a life you feel good about and create a future you are inspired by.
Client Success Stories
‘I came to see Paula a few years ago and particularly through what has been a challenging period for me. I was unsure how a psychotherapist was going to help but she has made an amazing difference in allowing me to reframe some of the emotional issues in my life which contributed to stress and anxiety. The process allowed me to discover and learn a lot about my own behaviour, what things made me feel trapped and how I could learn and change my behaviour and emotional response to certain family relationships which have caused me issues during my life. It was not easy, probably one of the hardest things I've ever done, but also the most liberating experience I've ever had. I can't thank her enough for her help and support in showing me how to make the changes I needed to do. I've never felt more confident and content.’ Rory (Fife)
‘I’ve been thinking lot about what you have helped me achieve in the past year. I am really happy and am using all the tools I have gained. Thank you for helping me see that, not only do I deserve my place on this planet, but that to a lot of people I am a genuine blessing. My relationship with my mum is stable and I am calm and in control. I am learning to recognise how to trust people as opposed to throwing my heart at them. Thank you, you have an amazing gift.’ Sandra M
'Paula has opened my eyes to the experience of truly living life…..not just feeling like a constant observer. She has not only given me the gift of knowledge but introduced me to tools and skills I now use on a daily basis in helping me become self aware and self confident, of becoming "myself". This experience has changed the perception I had of myself, and in turn the way I interact with family, friends and colleagues. Taking the time to listen to myself and finding out what it is I want has been a big challenge for me, but the comfort, happiness and hope I have received in return, although unexpected, has been an amazing reward. Armed with my new tools, I feel confident in knowing I can trust and rely on myself to be capable of dealing with all that my future holds and am excited and looking forward to my journey.' Nat