THE RELATIONSHIP CENTER of St. Louis™ |
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Women are the keepers of relationships. They are the “emotional hearts” of families. In our society, women are doing it all and feeling more stress than ever. Women tend to internalize feelings, especially anger. In general, women suffer more depression and anxiety than men. It is difficult to keep life in balance for yourself when taking care of everyone else.
The therapists at The Relationship Center work compassionately, supportively, and skillfully with women in all stages of life. We encourage women to understand and love themselves so they can use their many talents and inner wisdom to achieve their goals.
From the time we’re little girls, women are taught to be relational, and they become very good at it. One of the downsides of being relational is that, in learning to put others before themselves, women tend to lose sight of who they are. Women often learn that being “selfish” is to be avoided at all costs. Self-awareness helps provide balance in their lives and makes them become more able to make smart decisions, and take actions that get them more of what they want and need.
Although many women shine in having good connections to others, when these relationships are not going well, women can often feel a sense of shame. Women can feel overwhelmed with the responsibility to make relationships work, and with societies pressures to “do it all” (kids, families, jobs). These stressors can create much internal conflict and external chaos.
There are many losses in life. Getting “good at grief” is essential to the growth of the individual. It is important to “feel and heal” into acceptance of the things we cannot change. When our life expectations don’t match what actually happens, there can be much pain created. Pain cannot be avoided, but suffering is optional. We suffer when we don’t find a way to reconcile our grief and somehow blame ourselves for even having it. Gentle witnesses, who validate our losses, best facilitate the healing process.