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Trauma Bonding: Why Leaving Feels So Impossible
Explore the neurobiology and relational science of trauma-bonding in intimate partner abuse. As a trauma-informed couples therapist, I explain why leaving can feel impossible, how attachment, intermittent abuse and fear regulation interact, and evidence-based pathways toward healing.

Deborah Gillard
Nov 19


Invisible Chains: Understanding and Recognising Coercive Control in Relationships
Discover what coercive control really means in intimate partner relationships, how it differs from conflict or situational violence, and the evidence-based signs to watch for. Written by a trauma-informed couples therapist, this post empowers survivors and allies to recognise patterns of domination, isolation, and manipulation and take the first steps toward safety and healing.

Deborah Gillard
Oct 27


Window of Tolerance in Polyamory: How to Stay Regulated When Everything Feels Like Too Much
Explore how the trauma-informed concept of the window of tolerance can help navigate emotional dysregulation in polyamory and ethical non-monogamy. Learn somatic, reflective, and relational tools to stay grounded, communicate effectively, and grow your capacity for expansive, compassionate love.

Deborah Gillard
Oct 6


Polyamory & Boundaries: How ENM Can Foster Growth
Polyamory thrives on clear communication and boundaries. Discover how ethical non-monogamy (ENM) encourages personal growth, emotional literacy and trust through helpful boundary-setting. Learn Nedra Tawwab’s definition of boundaries, why they matter in all relationships, and practical tips to help you create connection, safety and freedom - whether you’re polyamorous, monogamous or simply curious.

Deborah Gillard
Sep 23


Should We Take a Break? What Couples Need to Know Before Pressing Pause
Thinking about taking a break in your relationship? Learn what it really means, the risks and benefits, and how to set healthy boundaries. Written by a couples therapist, this guide explains how to press pause with purpose and avoid the “we were on a break” confusion. Includes a free checklist (only available for one month!) to support your journey.

Deborah Gillard
Sep 11


Healing Relational Trauma: Why the Therapeutic Relationship Matters
Discover how trauma therapy heals relational wounds through the therapeutic relationship itself. Explore person-centred, psychodynamic, and somatic approaches, and how they help rebuild trust, safety, and connection. Learn how therapy supports individuals and couples in recovering from relational trauma.

Deborah Gillard
Sep 3


Why It Matters That Your Therapist Has Been Through Therapy Too
Have you ever wondered whether your therapist is seeing a therapist too? This blog post explores why it's important that they do and how this can benefit you. Next time you are on the phone with a therapist, ask them!

Deborah Gillard
Aug 13


Why Therapy Doesn't End When the Session Does: The Real Work Happens Between Sessions
Therapy is more than a weekly session, it’s a process that unfolds in everyday life. This blog explores why the real work of healing happens between sessions, how therapy acts as a secure base for real-world growth, and why insight alone isn't enough for lasting change. Learn how to integrate your therapy work outside the room, build emotional resilience, and create meaningful transformation that continues long after each session ends.

Deborah Gillard
Aug 5


Why Boundaries in Therapy Help You Heal
Boundaries in therapy aren’t barriers, they’re the very structure that makes emotional safety and deep healing possible. In this blog post, I explore why boundaries matter in all types of therapy (individual, couples, family, and group), how they foster trust and transformation, and what specific boundaries I hold in my practice. Whether you’re new to therapy or returning, understanding these guidelines can help you get the most from your sessions.

Deborah Gillard
Jul 16
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