A quote has been circulating: “As we free Palestine, Palestine frees us.” A common theme I have been witnessing and discussing with friends in diaspora is experiencing our parents and grandparents, survivors of the Nakba, talk about their experiences for the first time. We have also been talking about our own Palestinian identities and experiences in Palestine and the diaspora. In early October, I was sitting with my elderly father who was glued to the news on his computer screen, watching the bombing and saying on repeat “this isn’t just something that happens on TV. I lived this in 1967.” Si ..read more

Part of the Rest Series. As a person who doesn’t see movies alone often, I made a spontaneous solo trip for Hayao Miyazaki’s new film The Boy and the Heron (How Do You Live? is the Japanese title) as a tribute to the previous time I’d seen a film of his in the theatre. It has been more than 20 years and I am still stirred by Spirited Away.  After listening to a new favourite podcast on which this film and Miyazaki’s oeuvre are discussed, I have been thinking about those who are surviving, dying, and grieving in Gaza, and my therapy clients who have shared their struggles and grief with me ..read more

Attachment Styles in Non-monogamous Relationships: Navigating Intimacy Through the Lens of Security Part 1 of 4 (series) In the realm of relationships, one size certainly does not fit all. Although we live in a mononormative society, for many individuals, the so-called "traditional" model of monogamy may not align with their values, desires, or needs. Enter non-monogamy, an umbrella term that encompasses various relationship structures, including open relationships, polyamory, and other forms of consensual non-monogamous (CNM) arrangements, sometimes also referred to as ethical non-monogamy (E ..read more

Borders are violently imposed upon Indigenous and Stolen Lands, a consequence of colonialism, capitalism, and the delusion of white supremacy, resulting in widespread forced displacement globally. Simultaneously, the so-called "US" exploits, incarcerates, and dehumanizes both native peoples and migrants forced to flee the turmoil it instigates in their homelands, particularly in resource-rich regions. Migrants, immigrants, and refugees often undertake the most hazardous forms of labor, yet they are systematically denied safety and security. We honor the lives, stories, and families of the 6 mi ..read more

Understanding and addressing biases is crucial for fostering inclusivity, empathy, and social justice. While biases often operate on a subconscious level, they can have profound impacts on our interactions with others and contribute to systemic inequalities.  Biases have evolved as a foundational way in which our nervous system categorizes stimuli from our environment as "safe" or "unsafe" to ensure survival. The nature of evolution is constant change!  Human beings need community, connection, and a sense of belonging in order to survive and thrive. And yet, we exist in systems that ..read more

“Oh, my god. I can’t believe I just said that." “Why am I so stupid? Why can’t I do anything right?” “What an idiot.” Sound familiar? Whether on the giving or receiving end of these statements, we’ve all been there before. Shame can permeate our everyday interactions – in our own heads, at work, or at home. While it can often go unnoticed, it can still affect us deeply. So how do some people end up regularly having the above or similar thoughts, and get stuck in a seemingly endless loop of low self-worth?  Shame often lies at the root of many difficult emotional and social experiences ..read more

Did you know that, according to a recent survey by the Trevor Project, over 60% of LGBTQ+ individuals feel pressure to conform to cultural expectations that conflict with their personal identity? This tension is a reality many face daily. In a world where cultural norms often dictate our lives, how do LGBTQ+ individuals balance the weight of these expectations with their true selves? This blog post delves into this intricate dance, offering insights and strategies for those at the crossroads of cultural expectations and personal identity. Understanding Cultural Expectations Culture is like a ..read more

Did you know that about 1 in 4 adults in the U.S. personally know someone who uses gender-neutral pronouns? In a world where understanding of gender identity is evolving, it’s increasingly important to consider how this affects our relationships. This blog post aims to explore the facets of gender identity and expression and their impact on interpersonal dynamics. Understanding Gender Identity What’s in a Name? Defining Gender Identity Gender identity goes beyond the binary labels of ‘male’ and ‘female.’ It’s deeply personal, reflecting one’s internal understanding of their gender, whether th ..read more

Have you ever felt like you're constantly getting in your own way? Like no matter how hard you try, you always seem to sabotage your own happiness and success? If so, you're not alone. In "The Mountain is You," author Brianna Wiest explores the intricacies of self-sabotage and offers a roadmap for breaking free from its grip through accountability and self-compassion. Unpacking Self-Sabotage Self-sabotage often stems from conflicting desires between our conscious and subconscious minds. We may resist positive change, hit self-imposed limits on our success, or constantly seek fresh starts with ..read more

In part 1 (2 years ago, lol whoops on timely update), I discussed an introduction to “self-care” that is not rooted in capitalism, white feminism, and wellness industrial complex values. It does, however, glaringly leave out really, really important parts. Namely, nourishing our souls and grief and rage processing during the endless times of egregious human rights violations.  Self-care does not mean an avoidance of discomfort It is deeply white woman wellness industrial complex rhetoric to think that it is loving to yourself to just try to avoid discomfort (to the degree people can). Se ..read more