two adults in a field holding hands showing attachment to eachother.

Like Parent Like Partner: Do We Really Seek Partners Who Remind us of Our Parents?

alana barlia September 5, 2023

Do we REALLY seek relationships with partners who remind us of our parents? The short answer is - YES. Read more on why.

an empty wooden bench on the bank of a river or pond.

How to Spot a Narcissist - 5 Signs to Look For

alana barlia September 5, 2023

Ever wonder if somebody in your life has narcissistic personality traits? Here are 5 signs to help you spot a narcissist in your life.

two people holding coffee mugs at a table discussing mental health topics.

How Do I Manage Other's Expectations Of Me? And Is That My Responsibility?

alana barlia April 4, 2022

Expectations are essential to relationships. They act as safeguards, and protect our boundaries from being crossed. But what happens when expectations in a relationship are misaligned? Who’s responsibility is this, and what can we do to manage this?

a young mother and her daughter being silly and sticking their tongues out together on the streeet.

The Narcissistic Mother Wound_And How To Heal

alana barlia February 25, 2022

This post reflects on the specific treatment of daughters by narcissistic mothers. There are actionable steps that you can take if you have experienced narcissistic parenting, and this post aids in exploring some of those options.

A couple sitting on a bench looking at San Fransisco Bay and bridge viewed from behind.

My Partner is Showing Signs of a Personality Disorder: But Which One?

alana barlia September 20, 2021

Feeling unsafe in your relationship with your partner? Or wondering if they are exhibiting tendencies of a personality disorder? Here is a summarized look at the similarities and differences between Borderline Personality Disorder and Narcissistic Personality Disorder as it relates to intimate partner relationships.

woman giving a piggy back ride to small child up a rising road in the fall.

Narcissistic Parenting and the Cycle of Abuse Part II: The Inner Child Wound

alana barlia July 1, 2021

Years long chaos and unpredictability with a narcissistic parent will lead children to seek solace through perfectionism and codependency. Here we explore the inner-child wound that evolves through narcissistic parenting abuse.

close up of legs crossed and a woman's hand resting on top of book titled, "Parenting" by Tripp.

Narcissistic Parenting and the Cycle of Abuse: Part I

alana barlia July 1, 2021

Narcissistic Personality Disorder in a parent deeply affects children. Here I explore the cycle of abuse that ensues when a parent struggles with NPD.

A red stop sign at a crossroads surrounded by rugged, sandstone terrain.

How To: Effectively Set Boundaries

alana barlia October 12, 2020

Struggling with setting effective boundaries in your life? Boundaries are lines we will not cross, and they are essential to the health of our relationships, especially our relationship with our self. Check out some of these ‘how to’ tips on effective boundary setting.

A close up of cactus needles with more cacti in background.

Who are "Highly Sensitive People?"

alana barlia October 12, 2020

About 20% of the population experiences a highly sensitive nervous system, meaning that our nervous system responds longer and more deeply to external stimuli. This makes it difficult to regulate our emotions, leading to reactions and behaviors that may not be appropriate to our environment. Are you part of the 20%?

Silhouette of two bicyclists against a vibrant evening sky. The first reach back to hold hands.

The Science Behind Toxic Relationships, And Breaking Free

alana barlia October 12, 2020

If you’re struggling within an unhealthy relationship, let’s explore some of the points to look out for - trauma bonds, toxic relationships, and emotional abuse. Let’s also take a look at some ways to begin to cultivate independence and find safety.

a hand reaching towards the sun shining through tall, lush trees.

Physiological Effects of Trauma - And How You Can Self-Heal

alana barlia February 21, 2020

Ever wonder how trauma is being held in the body? This post focuses on how and where trauma is held in the body and how one can use their tools and resources to self-heal.

Woman in running attire with hands on top of her head on a trail in the country side.

5 Myths about Borderline Personality Disorder

alana barlia February 21, 2020

There are a lot of myths out there about Borderline Personality Disorder, and it can be difficult to sift through what’s real and what’s not. Read on to learn about some of the myths I have debunked about Borderline Personality Disorder.

A pink paper heart strung on a red and white string that is half ripped in half against black.

Tell-Tale Signs of Narcissistic Abuse, and Some Helpful Tips to Remain Safe

alana barlia February 21, 2020

Ever have the feeling you are living with a narcissist? Unsure what some of the signs of narcissistic abuse are? Read on to learn more about the tell-tale signs of narcissistic abuse.

A man embracing a women at the end of a dock on a wet, gray day.

Supporting a Partner with Borderline Personality Disorder

alana barlia February 21, 2020

Are you or your partner struggling with emotional dysregulation or Borderline Personality Disorder? Read on to learn about how you can best support each other.

A mirror reflection of thousands of golden-lit lanterns at night.

Core Beliefs and the Manifestation of Positive Energy

alana barlia February 20, 2020

Feeling stuck? Working through some of your core beliefs will allow you to manifest positive energies into your life. Read on to learn how!