Blog — Anxiety, Depression & Trauma Insights | Michelle Barsky, LMHC

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People Pleasing and the Fawn Response - A Trauma Therapy Perspective

March 1, 2026

People pleasing may be a trauma response. Learn how trauma therapy and IFS therapy help heal the fawn response and restore internal safety.

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#Trauma

How Anxious Attachment Shows Up in Relationships: A Trauma‑Informed IFS Perspective

January 22, 2026

Anxious attachment isn't neediness — it's a survival response from inconsistent early caregiving. An IFS perspective on healing relational p...

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#Trauma

When Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), and Bipolar Are Actually Trauma: Seeing Beyond the Diagnosis

October 7, 2025

BPD, TRD, and Bipolar diagnoses may actually reflect unintegrated complex trauma. An IFS perspective on seeing beyond the label to the wound...

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#Trauma

The Inner Tug-of-War: Trust, Fear, and the C-PTSD “Figure It Out” Part

August 13, 2025

C-PTSD creates an exhausting inner conflict between trust and fear. An IFS perspective on the "Figure It Out" part and how to find calm thro...

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#Trauma

Understanding Attachment Trauma: What It Is, Where It Comes From, and How to Begin Healing

July 16, 2025

Attachment trauma from disrupted early bonds quietly shapes how you relate to others. Learn what it is, how it shows up in adulthood, and ho...

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#Trauma

Neurodivergent and Deeply Feeling Individuals: Why They Are More Prone to Attachment Trauma and How to Heal

February 27, 2025

Neurodivergent and highly sensitive individuals are more vulnerable to attachment trauma. Learn why — and how IFS, EMDR, and affirming relat...

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#Trauma

Recognizing the Signs of Trauma You May Be Overlooking

January 26, 2025

Trauma isn't always obvious. Emotional dysregulation, hypervigilance, numbness, and low self-worth are subtle signs that unresolved trauma m...

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#Trauma

Understanding Rumination as a Protective Mechanism for Attachment Trauma: An IFS Perspective

January 9, 2025

Rumination isn't a flaw — it's a protective part trying to keep you safe. An IFS approach to understanding and healing repetitive anxious th...

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#Trauma

How Trauma Makes It Hard to Love Yourself (and How to Overcome It)

December 29, 2024

Trauma erodes self-worth through negative beliefs, poor boundaries, and self-destructive coping. Learn how to rebuild self-love through ther...

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#Depression

How to Navigate Holiday Depression with Self-Compassion

December 18, 2024

The holidays aren't joyful for everyone. Actionable self-care tips for managing holiday depression, from setting boundaries to practicing mi...

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#Anxiety

How to Manage Anxiety and Find Joy During the Holidays

December 8, 2024

Holiday gatherings, expectations, and family stress can spike anxiety. Six practical strategies to protect your peace and find joy this seas...

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#Depression

What Is the Difference Between Depression and Burnout?

April 19, 2024

Depression and burnout share symptoms but have different roots. Learn how to tell them apart and find the right support for what you're expe...

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#Anxiety

Signs You May Need to Enforce Boundaries

April 12, 2024

Feeling overwhelmed, resentful, or drained? These may be signs you need stronger boundaries. Learn how to set and maintain them effectively.

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#Anxiety

Is There a Connection Between Jealousy and Risky Behaviors in Relationships?

December 6, 2023

Jealousy can drive controlling behavior, snooping, and conflict in relationships. Learn healthier ways to manage jealousy and rebuild trust.

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#Depression

How to Cope If Financial Struggles Have You Depressed

October 15, 2023

Financial stress takes a serious toll on mental health. Practical steps for managing money-related depression through support, planning, and...

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#Depression

Depressed After a Friendship Ending? Here’s How to Cope

October 2, 2023

Losing a close friendship can trigger real grief and depression. Practical strategies for processing the loss and moving forward with self-c...

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#Trauma

The Trauma of Invisible Illnesses: Coping with Issues Others Can’t See

September 17, 2023

Living with an invisible illness means constant self-doubt and skepticism from others. Strategies for self-advocacy, support, and emotional ...

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#Anxiety

Understanding the Link Between Anxiety and Procrastination

September 10, 2023

Procrastination isn't laziness — it's often driven by anxiety and fear of failure. Understand the cycle and learn how to break through it.

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#Trauma

Is Hyper-Independence a Trauma Response?

August 8, 2023

Refusing help and handling everything alone can be a trauma response. Recognize the signs of hyper-independence and learn healthier ways to ...

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#Anxiety

You Don’t Need to “Fix” Everything: How to Overcome People-Pleasing Tendencies

July 23, 2023

People-pleasing often stems from fear of rejection. Learn to recognize the pattern, set boundaries, and reclaim your sense of self.

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#Anxiety

Tips for Communicating with an Emotionally Distant Partner

July 15, 2023

An emotionally distant partner can leave you feeling alone. Learn communication strategies rooted in attachment theory to bridge the gap.

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#Anxiety

Common Thinking Styles That Can Keep You Stuck in Anxiety

June 21, 2023

All-or-nothing thinking, overgeneralization, and catastrophizing fuel anxiety. Discover these patterns and how self-compassion can help you ...

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#Trauma

Here’s What Hollywood Gets Wrong About Trauma

June 11, 2023

Hollywood oversimplifies trauma with instant healing and violent stereotypes. Five myths debunked — and what real trauma recovery actually l...

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#Depression

Finding Hope If You Have Treatment-Resistant Depression

May 30, 2023

When standard treatments don't work, there's still hope. Explore alternative therapies, self-compassion practices, and support strategies fo...

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#Anxiety

Coping With Anxiety After Being Laid Off

May 18, 2023

Job loss can shake your identity and finances. Learn how to manage anxiety after a layoff with practical coping strategies and self-care tip...

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#Anxiety

How Does a Fear of Failure Fuel Anxiety?

May 12, 2023

Fear of failure and perfectionism create a cycle of avoidance and anxiety. Learn how exposure and self-compassion can help you break through...

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#Trauma

PTSD in Bystanders Is a Real Thing—What to Know

May 3, 2023

You don't have to be the victim to develop PTSD. Witnessing trauma can cause flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety. Your experience is valid —...

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#Depression

What Is Emotional Neglect and How Does It Affect You?

March 23, 2023

Emotional neglect is subtle but damaging. Learn how unmet emotional needs — in childhood or adult relationships — affect self-esteem and men...

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#Trauma

How to Practice Emotional Vulnerability

March 7, 2023

Vulnerability feels risky but builds deeper connections. Practical steps for opening up — sharing hardships, owning mistakes, and expressing...

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#Trauma

What Is AEDP Therapy?

February 28, 2023

AEDP is a relationship-focused therapy designed to help trauma survivors process deep emotions safely. Learn what to expect and who it's bes...

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#Trauma

Here’s What You Need to Know About the Parts of IFS Therapy

February 11, 2023

Think of Inside Out — IFS therapy works with your inner Firefighter, Manager, and Exile parts. Learn the 6 F's process and how it leads to s...

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#Depression

How Does Depression Influence Eating Habits?

January 16, 2023

Depression can cause emotional eating, appetite loss, or reliance on convenience food. Understand the patterns and find healthier ways to no...

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#Depression

Can You Lower Your Risk for Depression?

January 8, 2023

While some risk factors are genetic, exercise, sleep, healthy outlets, and stress management can help lower your risk for depression.

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#Anxiety

What Are Some of the Common Themes During Major Life Transitions?

January 2, 2023

Life transitions bring self-doubt, grief, and growth all at once. Explore the universal emotional themes that connect us during times of cha...

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#Depression

Tips to Keep Conversation Civil Over Holiday Dinner If You Have a Tense Family Dynamic

December 21, 2022

Dreading holiday dinner with difficult family? Practical strategies for setting ground rules, picking your battles, and keeping the peace.

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#Depression

How to Cope If You Were Laid Off Around the Holidays

December 6, 2022

A holiday layoff hits especially hard. Tips for managing the emotional and financial stress of job loss during the most pressured time of ye...

#Trauma

The Challenges of Healing From PTSD—What to Know

November 10, 2022

PTSD recovery is not linear. Grieving, opening up, and staying connected are common challenges. Learn what to expect and how to be gentle wi...

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#Trauma

What’s the Difference Between a Highly Sensitive Person and an Empath?

October 26, 2022

HSPs feel deeply while empaths absorb others' emotions. Learn the difference, discover your strengths, and embrace sensitivity as a powerful...

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#Trauma

This Is How Your Body Remembers Trauma

October 5, 2022

Your body stores trauma as muscle memory even when your mind blocks it. Learn how body-based therapies help release what words alone cannot.

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#Anxiety

How to Cope with Anxiety Around “Adulting”

September 6, 2022

Overwhelmed by adult responsibilities? Learn why the transition to adulthood triggers anxiety and practical strategies for managing the pres...

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#Anxiety

What Are Common Symptoms of OCD in Adults?

August 24, 2022

OCD is more than liking things neat. Learn the real symptoms — obsessive thoughts, compulsive rituals — and when to seek professional help.

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#Trauma

Why Narcissism and Codependency Tend to Attract Each Other

August 8, 2022

Narcissists seek admiration while codependents seek purpose in pleasing. Understand this destructive dynamic and how childhood patterns fuel...

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#Depression

How to Cope with Depression While Searching for a New Job

July 26, 2022

Repeated rejection during a job search can deepen depression. Learn how to structure your time, stay connected, and protect your mental heal...

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#Trauma

What Does Codependency Mean?

July 18, 2022

Codependency is a relational pattern where one partner over-gives while the other over-relies. Recognize the signs and learn how to build he...

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#Trauma

What Exactly Is Trauma Informed Care?

June 21, 2022

Trauma-informed care prioritizes safety, trust, and empowerment in treatment. Learn its five core principles and why it matters for trauma s...

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#Depression

Defining High Functioning Depression—What Is It?

June 10, 2022

High functioning depression means meeting daily responsibilities while silently suffering. Learn the signs of persistent depressive disorder...

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#Anxiety

What is Social Anxiety and Where Does It Come From?

June 2, 2022

Social anxiety goes beyond shyness. Explore its roots — genetics, family, and life experiences — and learn about effective treatment options...

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#Anxiety

Overcoming Pressure from Ideals and Expectations that Don’t Align with Your Relationship

May 24, 2022

Cultural and family pressure around relationships can cause guilt and anxiety. Learn to set boundaries and honor your own path.

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#Anxiety

How Does Anxiety Affect Your Relationships?

May 16, 2022

Anxiety can lead to codependency, avoidance, and insecurity in relationships. Recognize the signs and learn how to build healthier connectio...

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#Anxiety

Sad and Anxious About the Russia and Ukraine News? Here’s How to Cope

May 2, 2022

Global conflict can trigger real anxiety and sadness. Practical strategies for coping with distressing world events without doom-scrolling.

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#Trauma

Can Relationships Cause PTSD?

April 4, 2022

Toxic and abusive relationships can cause PTSD symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, and shame. Learn about Post-Traumatic Relationship Synd...

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#Depression

Where Does Depression Come From? What to Know About Possible Causes

March 17, 2022

Depression can stem from genetics, childhood experiences, or traumatic events. Understanding its roots is the first step toward healing.

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#Trauma

Can Trauma Cause ADHD?

March 10, 2022

Trauma and ADHD share overlapping symptoms and often co-occur. Explore the connection between childhood trauma, attention difficulties, and ...

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#Depression #Anxiety

Here’s How Depression and Anxiety Are Related

February 8, 2022

Anxiety and depression frequently co-occur and reinforce each other. Understand how they're connected and what treatment options can help.

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#Trauma

What Are Some Unconscious Ways You May be Responding to Trauma?

January 17, 2022

Fight, flight, freeze, fawn — your brain makes split-second survival decisions you may not recognize. Learn to identify unconscious trauma r...

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#Trauma

How Can Psychedelics Help with Trauma? All About Psilocybin

January 6, 2022

Psilocybin is emerging as a promising treatment for trauma. Learn how it promotes neurogenesis, what research shows, and why professional gu...

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#Trauma

How are Chronic Fatigue and Chronic Pain Related to Trauma?

December 28, 2021

Unexplained chronic pain or fatigue may be rooted in unresolved trauma. Learn five ways trauma affects your body's stress response and nervo...

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#Depression

How to Cope with Grief and Loss During the Holidays

December 17, 2021

Holidays can reopen grief you thought you'd processed. Learn ways to honor your loved one's memory while caring for your emotional well-bein...

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#Depression

How Mindfulness Can Help You Cope with Grief

November 22, 2021

Grief can feel endless. Learn how mindfulness helps you stay present, honor your emotions without judgment, and move toward healing at your ...

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#Anxiety

Handling a Panic Attack: What to Do When It Happens

November 9, 2021

Panic attacks can feel terrifying. Learn grounding techniques, breathing exercises, and in-the-moment strategies to regain calm during a pan...

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#Anxiety

How Intuitive Eating Can Turn Your Relationship with Food Into a Positive One

November 4, 2021

Diet culture fuels food anxiety. Discover how intuitive eating helps you tune into your body's signals and build a healthier relationship wi...

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#Trauma

What Is EMDR and How Does It Work?

October 4, 2021

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories. Learn how the 8-phase approach works and why it's often fast...

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#Anxiety

Your Mental Health Can Be Related To Your Gut Issues—Here’s How

September 30, 2021

The gut-brain connection is real. Learn how your microbiome affects anxiety and depression through the vagus nerve, serotonin, and inflammat...

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#Trauma

What Is Rumination and How Is It Related To Trauma?

September 6, 2021

Rumination keeps your mind stuck replaying traumatic events. Understand why your brain does this and how trauma therapy can help break the c...

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#Depression

How to Deal with Depression After Surviving COVID-19

August 26, 2021

Post-COVID depression is real — from lingering symptoms to complex emotions. Strategies for rebuilding your mental health after surviving th...

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#Anxiety

Coping with Social Anxiety in a Post-Pandemic World

August 4, 2021

Struggling to socialize after COVID-19 isolation? Practical tips for easing back into social situations when anxiety makes it feel overwhelm...

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#Anxiety

Modern Dating: How the Dating Process, Apps, and Rejection Have Changed the Scene

July 22, 2021

Dating apps have changed how we connect — and how rejection feels. Tips for protecting your mental health while navigating modern dating.

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#Depression

Toxic Positivity Isn’t Helpful for Depressed People, But Validation Is

July 12, 2021

"Just stay positive" can do more harm than good. Learn why validation — not toxic positivity — is what people with depression actually need.

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#Anxiety

The Pressure of Perfect: How Perfectionism Causes Anxiety

June 24, 2021

Perfectionism fueled by social media creates stress, self-blame, and isolation. Learn how to let go of impossible standards and reduce anxie...

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#Trauma

Trauma Can Affect Your Relationships and Attachment Style—Here’s How

June 15, 2021

Trauma can push you toward anxious, avoidant, or fearful attachment. Understand how your experiences shaped your relationship patterns — and...

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#Anxiety

What to Do If Anxiety Symptoms Make It Hard to Sleep

May 17, 2021

Anxiety and insomnia feed each other. Discover sleep hygiene tips, relaxation techniques, and natural remedies to help you rest easier.

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#Trauma

Here’s What the Media Gets Wrong About Trauma vs. What You Really Need to Know

May 3, 2021

Media focuses on dramatic trauma but overlooks emotional neglect, chronic stress, and loss. Learn why trauma exists on a spectrum and how it...

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#Trauma

Healing Trauma with the Internal Family Systems Model (IFS): How it Works

April 26, 2021

IFS therapy helps heal trauma by working with your inner parts — Managers, Exiles, and Firefighters — to restore internal harmony and self-l...

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#Depression

4 Signs It’s Time to Get Help for Your Depression

April 25, 2021

Hopelessness, lost interest, unexplained pain, and irritability are signs depression needs professional support. Learn when it's time to rea...

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#Trauma

3 Reasons to Rethink your Relationship

November 10, 2020

Automatic thoughts, misread motivations, and unspoken expectations can erode relationships. Three CBT-informed insights to help you see your...

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#Trauma

How Does Our Upbringing Impact Us? Trauma & Attachment.

July 19, 2020

Your childhood attachment style shapes your adult relationships. Explore how upbringing affects you — and how acceptance and self-awareness ...

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#Anxiety

Intro to Mindfulness

May 2, 2020

Skeptical about mindfulness? Learn what it really means, how present-moment awareness reduces anxiety, and simple ways to start practicing t...

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#Trauma

How Trauma Changes Us

April 8, 2020

Trauma rewires the brain in ways that talk therapy alone can't always reach. Learn why body-based approaches like EMDR and mindfulness are e...

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#Anxiety

Big Moments & Anxiety

February 11, 2020

Birthdays, milestones, and big life moments can trigger anxiety. Learn why these events spark fear and how to manage anxious feelings around...

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#Trauma

3 Ways to BEAT Codependency

January 25, 2020

Codependency keeps you reliant on others for decisions and safety. Three practical steps — self-discovery, decision-making, and self-soothin...