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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
3 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


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


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, 2025
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