I’ve had to learn, and keep relearning, that setting boundaries doesn’t make me masama ang ugali. It doesn’t mean I love less. It doesn’t mean I’ve become too “Western” or forgotten where I come from. It means I’m learning to care for myself in a way that still honors my roots, but no longer leaves me running on empty.

As a Filipino-Canadian and a therapist, this lesson isn’t just something I teach, but it’s something I’ve had to live. And to be honest, it’s not easy.

What does it really cost to hide parts of who you are at work? In Out, Proud, and Still on Shift, a small group of LGBTQ+ professionals and allies gathered to explore that question, and to exhale. Through honest conversations, shared stories, and grounding tools, we unpacked the invisible weight of overcompensating, staying silent, and playing it safe in systems not built for our full selves. This event was a reminder that healing happens in community, and that sometimes, even a room of ten can hold a whole world of courage.

If you’ve ever hesitated to start therapy because you were afraid that talking about what happened might make things worse… you’re not alone.

As a trauma therapist, I hear this question all the time, especially from first responders, survivors of complex trauma, and people who’ve been carrying their stories alone for a long time.

So let’s talk about it - gently, and with care.

Do you ever wish your brain had an “off” switch?

Maybe you replay conversations long after they’ve ended. You second-guess your decisions. You imagine worst-case scenarios, just in case. On the outside, it might look like anxiety, perfectionism, or indecisiveness, but under the surface, overthinking can be a sign of something deeper.

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why can’t I stop overthinking everything?”
You’re not alone. And there’s likely a reason your mind feels stuck in overdrive.

Have you ever found yourself constantly saying yes, even when your body is screaming no? Do you go out of your way to keep the peace, avoid conflict, or ensure others are comfortable—even at your own expense? If so, you may be caught in the cycle of people-pleasing, a behavior that’s often misunderstood and deeply rooted in early attachment wounds and complex trauma.

As a trauma therapist, I frequently work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, and chronic self-doubt. Many of them describe an internal pressure to “be good,” “keep everyone happy,” or “never be a burden.” While this might look like kindness or conscientiousness on the surface, it often masks a deeper fear: If I disappoint others, I’ll be rejected, abandoned, or unsafe.

In a world that values productivity and constant achievement, it's not uncommon for individuals to push themselves relentlessly toward their goals, often at the cost of their well-being. For some, this drive to overwork and overachieve isn't simply a matter of ambition—it’s a trauma response deeply rooted in their past. In this blog post, we’ll explore how overworking and overachieving can be linked to trauma, the psychological theories that explain these tendencies, and how trauma therapy can help individuals in Ontario, Canada, break free from this exhausting cycle.

In an increasingly diverse world, cultural sensitivity in therapy has become more critical than ever. Cultural sensitivity refers to the awareness and respect for cultural differences, including race, ethnicity, religion, language, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status, among others. When it comes to mental health care, a culturally sensitive approach is essential for building trust, fostering effective communication, and ensuring that therapy is truly beneficial for all clients. This blog will explore the importance of cultural sensitivity in therapy and why it matters for both therapists and clients.

Workplace trauma is a serious issue that can have profound effects on employees' mental health, yet it is often overlooked or misunderstood. Trauma in the workplace can result from a single event or a series of stressful experiences that overwhelm an individual’s ability to cope. Understanding the impact of workplace trauma on mental health is crucial for creating a supportive work environment, promoting employee well-being, and preventing long-term psychological damage.

Workplace stress is a common challenge in today's fast-paced, high-pressure work environments. Whether it’s tight deadlines, heavy workloads, or the demands of balancing professional and personal responsibilities, stress at work can significantly impact your health, productivity, and overall well-being. However, with the right strategies, you can manage workplace stress effectively and create a healthier, more balanced work life. This blog offers practical tips to help you reduce stress and enhance your work experience.

Burnout has become a widespread issue in today’s fast-paced, high-demand world. It’s more than just feeling tired or stressed; burnout is a state of chronic physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that can have serious consequences on both your health and well-being. Recognizing the signs of burnout early is crucial for taking steps to recover and prevent long-term damage. In this blog, we’ll explore what burnout is, how to recognize it, and why seeking help is essential.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It affects millions of people worldwide, manifesting in symptoms such as flashbacks, severe anxiety, nightmares, and emotional numbness. While PTSD can be challenging to manage, there are several effective strategies that can help individuals regain control over their lives and reduce the impact of symptoms.

Trauma is an overwhelming experience that can leave lasting effects on a person’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It can stem from a variety of sources, such as accidents, abuse, loss, or even witnessing violence. While the impact of trauma can be profound, there is hope for healing. One of the most effective ways to address the effects of trauma is through trauma-informed therapy. This approach recognizes the complexities of trauma and provides a safe, supportive environment for individuals to begin their healing journey.

Trauma is an emotional response to an event or series of events that are deeply distressing or disturbing. It can result from a wide range of experiences, from natural disasters and accidents to personal assaults or witnessing violence. While trauma is a normal response to such events, the way it manifests and the effects it has on a person’s mental and physical health can vary significantly. Understanding the signs and symptoms of trauma is crucial for recognizing it in ourselves and others, and for seeking appropriate help. Trauma therapist Ontario, Canada

Trauma is a deeply impactful experience that can affect individuals in multifaceted ways, influencing not only their immediate reactions but also their long-term well-being. It's crucial to recognize that trauma manifests not just on an emotional level but also across cognitive, physical, relational, and psychological dimensions. Let's explore these manifestations to gain a deeper understanding of how trauma can shape an individual's life.

Trauma-informed care is an approach that recognizes the widespread impact of trauma on individuals and aims to create an environment that promotes safety, trust, and empowerment. It emphasizes understanding, compassion, and respect for the experiences of trauma survivors, acknowledging that trauma can affect physical, emotional, and psychological well-being in profound ways.

Step-by-step instruction for progressive muscle relaxation; sleep; insomnia; chronic insomnia; sleeping problems; sleep issues; sleep problems; Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) is a relaxation technique that involves tensing and then relaxing muscle groups in a specific sequence. It can be very effective in promoting sleep by reducing overall tension and stress in the body. Here's a step-by-step guide for performing progressive muscle relaxation:

In the realm of mental health support, a significant disparity exists between men and women seeking professional help. Despite increasing awareness about mental health issues, many men continue to hesitate or avoid seeking therapy or counseling when they need it most. This reluctance stems from various societal, cultural, and personal factors that contribute to a complex landscape of barriers. Understanding these obstacles is crucial to breaking down stigma and encouraging more men to prioritize their mental well-being.

Taking the step to attend your first therapy session can be both daunting and empowering. Whether you're seeking support for managing stress, dealing with personal challenges, or improving your mental well-being, preparation can help ease any anxieties and make the most of your therapeutic experience. Here’s a guide to help you prepare for your first therapy session and make it a positive and beneficial experience:

Finding moments of peace and tranquility can seem elusive. Yet, one of the most accessible and effective ways to cultivate inner calm and enhance mental well-being is through the practice of breathing exercises. These simple techniques not only foster relaxation but also offer a myriad of benefits that positively impact our mental health. Let's explore why breathing exercises are so powerful and how you can integrate them into your daily routine to promote overall well-being.