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Why Conflict Isn’t Failure in Relationships (Especially in December)
Conflict often increases during December, but that doesn’t mean your relationship is failing. Written from a trauma-informed couples therapy perspective, this article explores why stress, attachment, and nervous system overwhelm make conflict more likely at this time of year, and how understanding this can support repair, safety, and connection.

Deborah Gillard
2 hours ago


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


Am I in a "Healthy" Relationship?
Wondering if your relationship is truly healthy? Learn the signs of a strong, supportive partnership. From communication and trust to emotional safety and shared goals, this post explores what healthy relationships look like across monogamous and non-monogamous dynamics, with practical reflection questions and tips on how therapy can help.

Deborah Gillard
May 31, 2025


Gottman's Secrets to Arguing Without Destroying Your Relationship
Disagreements are inevitable, but they don’t have to harm your relationship. In this blog post, I share strategies for handling conflict with care. Learn how to use softened startups, avoid the Four Horsemen (criticism, defensiveness, contempt, stonewalling), and focus on emotional connection. With tools for great listening, self-soothing, and managing overwhelm, you’ll learn how to argue without destroying your connection.

Deborah Gillard
Apr 25, 2025


What are Attachment Styles? Understanding the Key to More Secure Relationships
Discover how attachment styles shape your relationships and how therapy can help you build a secure, fulfilling emotional foundation. Learn to spot anxious, avoidant, and secure patterns — and how to build stronger emotional connections. Discover how attachment styles impact your relationships.

Deborah Gillard
Mar 13, 2025
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