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Phillippa Chinery Counselling

Therapy for Marginalised Communities: A space to Heal, Grow, and Reconnect With Your Authentic Self

Hi, I’m Phillippa – an Integrative Therapist passionate about helping you uncover the parts of yourself that may have been hidden, silenced, or shamed. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, grief, or a sense of not belonging, I’m here to help you heal, find your voice, and embrace your authentic self.

Whether it’s navigating racial trauma, cultural pressures, perfectionism, or the fear of being vulnerable, I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can safely explore who you are and what you need to thrive. Together, we’ll uncover what’s holding you back, and I’ll support you in building a life where you feel confident, empowered, and seen.

I can support you with:

Relational Trauma
Cultural Identity & Belonging
Self Worth & Boundaries
Self- Esteem
Workplace Difficulties
Body Image
Codependency
Life Changing Events & Transitions
Sexuality
Loneliness

Stress
Anger
Anxiety, depression, and emotional overwhelm
Grief, loss, and childhood trauma
Navigating identity and racial trauma
Overcoming shame, people-pleasing, and perfectionism
Building self-compassion and finding your voice

Online Therapy

Accessible and flexible counselling from the comfort of your own space.

Sessions conducted via Zoom
Ideal for clients with busy schedules or those outside my local area
Weekly or fortnightly sessions
£70 per session

Book a Free Consultation Call

“When we can see ourselves as we truly are and accept ourselves, we build the necessary foundation for self-love.”

Bell Hooks

Ready to Begin? Let’s Take This Step Together

Self-care doesn’t have to be Western. Capitalistic. Individualistic.

Your healing can be rooted in your identity, culture, and ancestral wisdom.

🌿 Maybe your self-care is movement. Dance, yoga, martial arts—practices passed down through generations.

🕊️ Maybe your self-care is spiritual. Prayer, meditation, connecting with ancestors.

🍲 Maybe your self-care is nourishment. Cooking the foods you grew up with, sitting down for a meal without rushing.

👥 Maybe your self-care is communal. Sitting with your people, laughing, holding space for each other.

📖 Maybe your self-care is storytelling. Reading books by people who share your lived experience, writing your own truth.

Your self-care does not need to be palatable to be valid.

💬 What cultural or ancestral self-care practice do you want to reclaim? Tell me below!

📌 Save this as a reminder that your healing can honour every part of you.

#AncestralHealing #CulturalSelfCare #ReclaimingWellness #HealingThroughIdentity #RadicalSelfCare #CommunityCare #GenerationalHealing #SelfCareForUs #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Therapy isn’t about “fixing” you—because you were never broken. It’s about finally setting things down instead of carrying the weight alone.

Maybe you’ve been holding it together for so long that letting go feels impossible. Maybe you’ve learned to push through, even when you’re exhausted. But here’s the truth: you don’t have to carry it all.

Therapy gives you a space to untangle the heaviness, piece by piece. No judgment. No rush. Just room to breathe, to process, to make sense of what’s been weighing you down.

Healing isn’t about becoming a “new” version of yourself. It’s about reconnecting with who you’ve always been—before the world told you to shrink, to overextend, to put yourself last.

💛 What’s one thing you’re ready to put down? Drop it in the comments—let’s honour every small step toward healing.

📌 Save this for when you need a reminder: you don’t have to do this alone.

#TherapyForHealing #BreakingCycles #EmotionalWellbeing #HealingIsMessy #RelationalTrauma #SelfTrust #BoundariesMatter #TheSelfLoveTherapist #InnerHealing #YouAreEnough #TheSelfLoveTherapist

💡 Self-love isn’t just about spa days and positive affirmations—it’s about how you show up for yourself every single day.

It’s paying your bills on time so you don’t wake up anxious.
It’s choosing food that nourishes your body instead of punishing it.
It’s setting boundaries, even when it feels uncomfortable.
It’s keeping the promises you make to yourself—not just to others.

Real self-love is in the small, unglamorous moments. It’s in the way you talk to yourself when you make a mistake. It’s how you prioritise rest without guilt. It’s making choices that support you—not just the version of you that pleases everyone else.

And here’s the beautiful part: when you honour yourself, you show up for the people around you with deeper compassion and authenticity. Self-love isn’t selfish—it’s the foundation of every healthy relationship, from friendships to community care.

❤️ This Valentine’s, let’s celebrate self-love in all its forms. What’s one way you’re showing up for yourself today? Drop it in the comments or save this for a reminder when you need it.

#SelfLoveInAction #RadicalSelfLove #EmotionalWellbeing #SelfCompassionMatters #AuthenticLiving #HolisticHealing #BoundariesAreLove #InnerHealingJourney #GroundedSelfCare #TheSelfLoveTherapist

What if the parts of you that feel hardest to embrace are the very ones holding your greatest power?

For so many years, I tried to fit into spaces that weren’t meant for me. I left parts of myself behind—my culture, my voice, my true self—believing I had to shrink to belong. 💔

But here’s what I’ve learned: healing doesn’t happen when we hide. It begins when we stop pretending to be someone we’re not.

🌿 Healing begins when we reclaim the parts of ourselves we were taught to reject—those parts that make us unique, powerful, and whole.
🌿 Healing begins when we allow ourselves to take up space, to exist fully, unapologetically, just as we are.

You are not too much. You are whole, you are worthy, and you are enough—just as you are.

💬 What’s one thing you’ve embraced about yourself recently, something that once felt hard to accept? Share it in the comments—let’s celebrate that growth together.

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #RadicalSelfLove #IntersectionalHealing #MarginalisedVoicesMatter #HealingJourney #SelfAcceptanceJourney #CulturalIdentity #AuthenticityIsStrength #EmbraceYourIdentity

Healing isn’t just about letting go of the past; it’s about deeply understanding where you come from and how it shapes who you are today.

When we explore our family roots, we gain insight into patterns, resilience, and even unspoken pain. By embracing this connection, we can create meaningful change for ourselves and future generations.

🌿 Here’s how you can start this transformative journey:

1️⃣ Explore Your Family Story
Ask questions, listen to the stories of your elders, and dig into your family’s history. What were the challenges they faced? What strengths got them through? By learning their truths, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how their experiences influence you.

2️⃣ Identify Patterns and Cycles
Take note of recurring behaviours, beliefs, or emotional responses passed down through generations. Are there cycles of silence, perfectionism, or self-sacrifice? Recognising these patterns is the first step to transforming them.

3️⃣ Embrace Your Role in Healing
Healing isn’t about blaming—it’s about shifting. You have the power to choose a different way, to rewrite the narrative, and to let self-compassion guide you. Even the smallest acts of awareness and change ripple through your family system.

4️⃣ Honour Your Roots
Acknowledge the strength and resilience that runs through your family tree, even in its struggles. While you create new traditions or ways of being, hold space for gratitude and pride in where you come from.

✨ Healing is a process, not a destination. By reconnecting with your family’s roots, you’re not only understanding their story—you’re writing the next chapter. Every step forward is a testament to your courage and commitment to breaking cycles while building bridges for future generations.

💬 What’s one thing you’ve learned about yourself through exploring your family story? Share your reflections in the comments—I’d love to hear.

Need support exploring this journey? I offer online therapy to guide you. DM me to learn more.

#FamilyHealing #GenerationalGrowth #EmbraceHealing #IntergenerationalTrauma #SelfCompassion #BreakTheCycle #FamilyRoots #HealingJourney #TraumaRecovery #OnlineTherapy #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Some days just feel heavy, don’t they? It’s easy to spiral into “this whole day is ruined,” but what if you gave yourself permission to pause instead? 🌿

Here are 5 simple ways to reset when everything feels like too much. Think of them as little lifelines to pull you back to yourself.

Save this post for the next time you need a reminder that it’s okay to slow down and start again—and feel free to pass it along to someone who might need it too. 💛

✨ What’s one thing that helps you reset when a day feels off? Let’s share ideas in the comments and help each other out.

#MentalHealthTips #ResetYourDay #EmotionalWellbeing #MindfulnessMatters #SelfCareDaily #SmallStepsBigChange #PauseBreatheReset #EmotionalResilience #TheSelfLoveTherapist

To the woman who’s been told she’s too much, too loud, or too different—this is for you. I see you, and I feel you.

You don’t have to leave parts of yourself behind to belong. I know it can feel like you need to silence your culture, your voice, your story just to fit in—but here’s the truth: those parts of you are not weaknesses. They are your power, your resilience, your essence. 🌟

It’s time to stop dimming your light for the comfort of others. Here’s how to start embracing all of who you are:

1️⃣ Reclaim your roots—There’s strength in remembering where you come from. Your story and history are pieces of you that no one can take away.
2️⃣ Challenge the voice of shame—The narrative that tells you you're "too much" is a lie. Rewrite it with love, compassion, and truth.
3️⃣ Honour your complexity—You are beautifully layered. Your intersectionality is what makes you extraordinary, not burdensome.
4️⃣ Find spaces that celebrate you—You deserve to be seen and honoured for all you are, not just the parts that fit the mould.
5️⃣ Practice self-compassion—It’s okay to be a work in progress. You are allowed to grow at your own pace, without shame or guilt.
You have every right to take up space in this world, just as you are.

💬 What’s one way you’re showing up fully this week, embracing all parts of you? Share it in the comments—I’d love to hear from you, and celebrate your journey together.

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #IntersectionalityMatters #RadicalSelfAcceptance #HealingJourney #EmbraceYourIdentity #MarginalisedVoices #EmotionalHealing #SelfCompassion #CulturalHealing

Growth doesn’t always come with big breakthroughs or life-changing epiphanies. Sometimes, it’s in the quiet moments—the subtle shifts that no one else sees.

✨ When you pause before people-pleasing and check in with your needs.
✨ When you catch yourself in self-doubt but show up anyway.
✨ When you set a boundary—even if it feels terrifying.
✨ When you no longer seek validation from those who never gave it.
✨ When you show yourself compassion on hard days instead of criticism.

You might not always feel like you're growing, but that doesn’t mean you’re not. Healing is happening in the spaces between.

💛 What’s one quiet sign of growth you’ve noticed in yourself recently? Let’s celebrate it in the comments.

#EmotionalGrowth #HealingJourney #BoundariesAreHealthy #SelfCompassion #Authenticity #MentalHealthMatters #EmotionalWellness #PersonalGrowth #SelfHealing #TherapyJourney #BreakTheCycle #GrowthIsMessy #TheSelfLoveTherapist

January was… a lot. Here’s how to process it with self-compassion.

January might have been a rollercoaster—highs, lows, or a mix of both—but every part of your journey is valid. Taking time to reflect allows you to acknowledge your growth, honour your emotions, and step into February with intention.

💡 Reflection Prompts:

✨ What felt like a personal win this month?
✨ What challenges came up, and how did you move through them?
✨ What’s one thing you’re truly proud of?

Reminder: Growth isn’t linear. Even the small steps and messy progress count. Give yourself grace as you continue evolving. 💛

🌱 Let’s carry these lessons forward with self-compassion and intention. 🌱

➡️ Swipe through the carousel for guided prompts to help you reflect!

#SelfReflection #MindfulJournaling #EmotionalHealing #SelfCompassionJourney #InnerGrowth #PersonalDevelopment #MentalWellbeing #TherapyIsHealing #GrowthMindset #HealingFromWithin #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Struggling to name what you're feeling? You’re not alone.

If no one ever helped you make sense of your emotions growing up, how could you be expected to just know what you're feeling now?
In emotionally supportive households, caregivers help children name, express, and regulate emotions. They teach that feelings—both comfortable and uncomfortable—are valid and manageable.

But if you grew up in a household where emotions were ignored, dismissed, or even punished, you likely learned to push them down. You may have had to disconnect from your feelings to maintain relationships with the people who were supposed to care for you.

And that survival tool? It worked—for a time.

But now, as an adult, you might:

💭 Struggle to name your emotions.
💭 Feel overwhelmed or numb in emotional situations.
💭 Shut down when others express their emotions.
💭 Have difficulty identifying your needs.

There’s nothing wrong with you. You are not broken. Your nervous system adapted to keep you safe.

The good news? You can gently reconnect with your emotions—without judgment, without force.

🌱 Try pausing throughout the day to notice physical sensations.
🌱 Ask yourself: What might this feeling be trying to tell me?
🌱 Validate your experience: It makes sense that this feels difficult.

Reconnecting takes time. There’s no rush. No “right” way to do this. Just small steps toward understanding yourself in a way you deserved to experience all along. ❤️

Do you struggle to identify your emotions? Let me know in the comments.👇🏿

#EmotionalHealing #ChildhoodTrauma #SelfAwareness #EmotionalNeglect #InnerChildHealing #TherapySupport #MentalHealthMatters #HealingJourney #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Compliments feel good, don’t they? But what happens when they stop coming? 🤔

Relying on others to validate your worth can leave you feeling drained. What if, instead, you gave yourself the kindness and recognition you’re waiting for? No applause required—just a moment to remind yourself of your own value.

So, here’s a little challenge: What’s one kind thing you can say to yourself today? Drop it in the comments or whisper it to yourself—either way, it counts. 💙

#SelfValidation #YouAreEnough #SpeakToYourself #SelfCompassion #TheSelfLoveTherapist #InnerCritic #SelfWorthJourney #MentalHealthMatters #OwnYourNarrative #HealingStartsWithin

The world feels heavier today, but for many of us, this moment isn’t an isolated tragedy—it’s the latest in a long, painful catalogue of human rights abuses and genocides across the globe. 💔

We all saw what Elon did. The display of the Nazi salute wasn’t a mistake or an act of excitement—it was deliberate. It was exactly what he meant it to be: a symbol of alignment, of power, of defiance against accountability.

We’ve seen this before. The rise of oppressive ideologies, the erosion of protections for marginalised communities, and the silence of those in power—it’s not new. For decades, the world has been shifting further to the right, emboldening hate and injustice in plain sight. And while it’s heartbreaking, it’s not surprising. That truth carries its own kind of weight.

It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. To feel grief, anger, or even numbness. These emotions are valid because what we’re witnessing is real. But amid the pain, we must find ways to protect our spirit and keep moving forward.

Here are 5 ways to cope and ground yourself in the face of injustice:

1️⃣ Pause to feel it. Honour your emotions—they’re a sign of your humanity.
2️⃣ Set boundaries with the news. Stay informed, but protect your mental health.
3️⃣ Lean into community. Share, grieve, and organise with those who understand.
4️⃣ Find your anchor. Whether it’s prayer, nature, art, or reflection, return to what keeps you grounded.
5️⃣ Act where you can. Your voice, presence, and small acts of resistance matter.

This isn’t just about surviving—it’s about finding ways to keep showing up for ourselves, for each other, and for the causes that matter.

💬 What’s helping you find hope or grounding right now? Let’s build that space together in the comments.

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #RadicalSelfCompassion #HealingInCommunity #MarginalisedVoicesMatter #HumanRights #EmotionalHealing #GroundingInCrisis #ResilienceJourney #IntersectionalHealing

Emotions are messages, not burdens. Are you listening to what yours are telling you? 🧠

It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of life and push our feelings aside. But every emotion, even the painful ones, carries an important message. 🌿

When you allow yourself to feel, instead of suppressing or ignoring what’s coming up, you’re creating space for healing. You’re telling yourself: You matter. Your emotions matter. 💛

This isn’t about having it all together—it’s about honouring yourself in your messiness, your imperfection. It’s okay to sit with discomfort, because that’s where growth happens.

Save this as a reminder on those days when it feels too much, and share it with someone who might need permission to feel too. You’re not alone on this journey. 💫

#FeelYourFeelings #EmotionalWellness #SelfCompassion #TheSelfLoveTherapist #YouMatter #HealingJourney #EmotionalHealth #SelfValidation #MentalHealthSupport

🌱 Ever told yourself, "Other people have it worse," and buried your feelings under guilt? Let’s stop right there.

Minimising your emotions doesn’t make you kinder, stronger, or more selfless. It just keeps you stuck, disconnected, and carrying feelings that deserve your care.

Try this mantra: *“Other people’s struggles matter, but so do mine.”* 💛 Because it’s not an either-or—it’s about holding space for yourself and others.

So, what’s one emotion you’ve been brushing aside lately? Drop it in the comments, and let’s start unpacking together. 👇🏿

#FeelYourFeelings #SelfCompassion #YouMatterToo #EmotionalWellbeing #MentalHealthMatters #CounsellingSupport #FeelItToHealIt #TherapyTools #SelfCareTips #MentalHealthAwareness #TheSelfLoveTherapist

Ever felt like you're carrying emotional baggage you didn’t even pack? 🧳 Sometimes, the weight we carry isn’t ours—it’s the echoes of trauma passed down through generations.

Intergenerational trauma is how pain, grief, and stress from the past seep into the present, often without us even realising. It shows up in the way we relate to others, the boundaries we struggle to set, and the unspoken dynamics in our families.

Some signs you might be experiencing it:
👉🏿 Struggling to set healthy emotional boundaries (feeling like you need to fix everyone else’s emotions).
👉🏿 Difficulty being vulnerable and accepting love.
👉🏿 Unseen shame or a belief that you’re never enough.
👉🏿 Repeating unhealthy patterns in your relationships.
👉🏿 Feeling stuck in family dynamics that feel like they’ve never changed.
👉🏿 Always pushing yourself to do more, thinking your worth depends on what you do, not who you are.

Recognising these patterns is the first step toward breaking the cycle. You don’t have to carry the past’s burden—healing is possible. 🌱

💬 What’s a pattern you’ve noticed in your family? Drop it in the comments. Let’s start a conversation, because change begins with awareness.

#IntergenerationalTrauma #BreakingTheCycle #EmotionalHealing #TheSelfLoveTherapist #GenerationalHealing #TraumaAwareness #HealingJourney #EmpoweredHealing #MentalHealthMatters #HealingIsPossible

💭 Does the weight you’re carrying feel like it’s not entirely yours?

Intergenerational trauma is the emotional baggage passed down through families—the unspoken grief, pain, and stress that ripple through generations, shaping how we love, connect, and cope.

For many marginalised groups, this trauma runs deeper, rooted in systemic injustices like colonisation, slavery, or discrimination. These experiences don’t vanish—they leave marks. But here’s the truth:

✨ This isn’t your fault, and it doesn’t have to define you. ✨

You have the power to pause, reflect, and begin the healing process—not just for yourself but for those who come after you. It’s a brave journey, but every step matters. 🌿

💬 Have you noticed inherited patterns in your family? Let’s talk about it below—you’re not alone in this. 💛

#IntergenerationalTrauma #BreakTheCycle #TheSelfLoveTherapist #HealingJourney #TherapyForYou #EmotionalWellBeing #SelfCompassion #TraumaHealing #RewriteYourStory

🌿 This year, let’s set goals that feel good—not just look good.

We’ve all felt the pressure to tick off goals like a to-do list. But here’s the thing: emotionally sustainable goals aren’t about doing more—they’re about doing what matters, in a way that honours your well-being.

✨ Ready to try something different?

Swipe through for 5 tips to set goals that support you, not overwhelm you:
1️⃣ Progress over perfection. A small, messy step is still a step forward.
2️⃣ Stay true to your values. Let your goals reflect what you care about—not what others expect.
3️⃣ Start small. Big dreams are built with baby steps.
4️⃣ Celebrate everything. Tiny wins add up in powerful ways.
5️⃣ Stay flexible. Life is unpredictable—your goals can adapt.

💬 Which tip resonates with you the most? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’re approaching your goals this year.

#SustainableGoals #EmotionalWellBeing #GrowthNotPerfection #TheSelfLoveTherapist #SelfCompassion #IntentionalLiving #HealingJourney #SelfLoveTips

💭 Bad days happen—but what if they were just reset days in disguise?

We’ve all had those days where everything feels heavy. But instead of spiraling, what if you pressed pause and gave yourself a chance to reset? 🌿

✨ Here’s how to turn a rough day into a fresh start:
1️⃣ Pause and breathe. A moment of stillness can work wonders.
2️⃣ Focus on what you can control. Write down three small things you can shift right now.
3️⃣ Find gratitude. Even on the toughest days, there’s a glimmer of light—find it.

Remember, you don’t have to fix the whole day. Sometimes, a little reset is all you need.

💬 How do you reset on heavy days? Share your go-to strategies in the comments—your tip might brighten someone else’s day.

#ResetNotRegret #SelfCompassion #EmotionalWellBeing #TheSelfLoveTherapist #MentalHealthSupport #HealingJourney #TakeABreath #SelfCareTips #GrowthOverPerfection

A decade ago, I was told I was too empathetic for a job. Fast forward to today, and I’m owning every bit of that empathy as @TheSelfLoveTherapist. My journey wasn’t about perfecting a set of skills—it was about unlearning the messages I’d been carrying about myself. It’s messy, it’s tough, but it’s been transformative. 💪🏿

Now, I’m here to help you embrace every part of you, especially when the world tells you it’s too much. This isn’t a rebrand; it’s who I’ve always been. ❤️

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #TherapistJourney #HealingThroughEmpathy #RelationalTrauma #UnlearnAndGrow #TransformativeHealing #SelfAcceptance #EmpathyHeals #EmbraceAllOfYou #AuthenticHealing #MentalHealthMatters #EmpathyInAction #TherapistOfColour #CulturalHealing

When your therapist asks about your coping strategies, and you realise… it’s vibes over tools. 😎👑

Listen, self-care takes many forms, and mine just happened to involve watching Aaron Pierre on a loop. 🦁😂 Sometimes, all you need to get through is a little joy, some iconic moves, and the reminder that life can be light—even in the heavy moments.

So tell me, what’s the most unexpected thing that’s helped you cope? A comfort show, a playlist, or maybe a bit of Aaron Pierre energy too? Let me know in the comments—let’s share the love. 💛

#TherapyHumour #AaronPierreAppreciation #CopingWithJoy #TheSelfLoveTherapist #TherapyBreakVibes #MainCharacterEnergy #SelfCareLooksDifferent #HealingJourney

💛 New name, same mission: helping you choose yourself.

Big update—I’ve changed my handle to @theselflovetherapist! Why? Because this space is all about self-love—not the polished kind, but the raw, messy, real version that asks you to:

🌟 Face the hard truths about your patterns.
🌟 Set boundaries that once felt impossible.
🌟 Keep showing up for yourself, even when it’s hard.

The name has changed, but I haven’t. I’m still here with the same dry humour, deep conversations, and commitment to helping you feel seen, supported, and empowered to reconnect with yourself.

💬 What does self-love mean to you this year? Is it saying no more often? Speaking your truth? Setting a boundary? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear how you’re choosing you.

#TheSelfLoveTherapist #SelfLoveJourney #HealingAndGrowing #RadicalSelfCare #EmpoweredLiving #BoundariesAndHealing #AuthenticConnection #TherapyForMarginalisedGroups #IntentionalLiving

Today, give yourself permission to feel.

🤍 You don’t have to have it all figured out.
🤍 You don’t need to justify your emotions.
🤍 You are allowed to sit with your feelings, exactly as they are.

Emotions are teachers, not enemies. Start small. Feel one thing. Share one thing. Trust that it’s enough. 🌟

What’s one step you’ll take today to honour your emotions?

#EmotionalFreedom #PermissionToFeel #FeelYourFeelings #CompassionateLiving

Feeling your feelings isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most liberating things you can do. 🌟

When you stop suppressing emotions:

🌿 You free up mental and emotional energy.
🌿 You deepen your connection with yourself and others.
🌿 You create space for growth and healing.

It’s not about fixing everything—it’s about giving yourself permission to feel. 💛

What’s one positive change you’ve noticed from honouring your emotions?

#EmbraceYourEmotions #HealingJourney #SelfGrowth #MentalHealthAwareness

Reconnecting with your emotions starts with small, intentional steps:

💡 Notice: Pay attention to your body—are your shoulders tight? Jaw clenched? These are clues.

💡 Name: Give your emotion a name. Is it sadness, anger, or fear?

💡 Allow: Sit with it without judgment. Feelings are like waves—they come and go. 🌊

Which of these steps feels most accessible to you? Start where you are. 💛

#FeelToHeal #EmotionalAwareness #HealingJourney #SelfCompassion

Suppressing your feelings can create emotional walls—not just within you, but between you and the people you care about. 💔

Unspoken emotions may manifest as irritability, withdrawal, or misunderstanding in your relationships. The good news? Reconnecting with your emotions can pave the way for deeper, more authentic connections. 🌱
How has holding back your feelings affected your relationships? Let’s talk about it.

#HealthyRelationships #EmotionalConnection #MentalWellness #SelfWorthJourney

✨ Do you feel like you’re being pulled in a hundred different directions? ✨

Overextending yourself can leave you exhausted, resentful, and far from your authentic self—but it doesn’t have to be this way. 💛 Here are some ways to gently reclaim your energy and set boundaries that honour you:

1️⃣ Redefine what “helping” looks like 🤝: Supporting others shouldn’t come at the cost of your well-being. Practice saying, "I’d love to help, but I can’t take this on right now."

2️⃣ Use your values as a compass 🧭: Ask yourself, “Does this align with what truly matters to me?” If the answer is no, give yourself permission to step back.

3️⃣ Normalise saying NO 🚫: Saying no isn’t rejection—it’s self-respect. Try saying, “I’m not available for this, but I hope it goes well!”

4️⃣ Prioritise rest as resistance 🛌: In a world that glorifies busyness, rest is revolutionary. Schedule downtime like it’s a non-negotiable meeting with yourself.

5️⃣ Tune in to your needs 💭: Your feelings of overwhelm are valid. Ask yourself, “What do I need in this moment to feel more balanced?” and act on it without guilt.

🌿 Remember: Learning to say no might feel unfamiliar at first, but it’s a step toward deeper self-love and authenticity.

#AuthenticityInAction #HealthyBoundaries #SayNoWithLove #PrioritizeYourPeace #IntegrativeHealing #RestIsResistance #SelfCareWithPhillippa #MentalHealthAwareness #boundariesmatter #counsellorsofinstagram #therapistsofinstagram #blackfemaletherapist #therapyforblackgirls

Suppressing your feelings might seem like self-protection, but over time, it can feel like living with a lid on your life. 🌪️ Unprocessed emotions don’t disappear; they show up as stress, tension, or even disconnection in your relationships.

What feelings have you been bottling up? It’s never too late to begin unpacking them. 💛

What’s one emotion you’ve been avoiding lately? Share below or drop a 🌊 if you're ready to dive in.

#EmotionalAwareness #FeelYourFeelings #MentalHealthMatters #SelfCompassion

Your well-being isn’t negotiable. 🧡 Emotional safety means recognising your boundaries, knowing your triggers, and allowing yourself to step back if needed.

What helps you prioritise emotional safety during the holidays? Share your thoughts— your wisdom might help someone else! 💬

#EmotionalSafety #HealthyRelationships #ProtectYourPeace #HolidaySelfCare

Spending time with family over the holidays can be lovely for some of us. For others, it can be a stressful and anxiety making experience. The holidays may look different from last year. You may be grieving the loss of people who were here last year. However the holiday season looks for you, here are some tips to help you to cope.

💫 It’s ok if you choose not to spend the holidays with family. Whether you’re with your chosen family or alone, whatever feels right for you is great.
💫 If family members keep making rude or unpleasant comments about your appearance, life etc put boundaries in place. Be firm, calm and clear.
💫 Don’t be afraid to restate your boundaries and add consequences e.g. I have asked you not to comment on my body. If you continue, I will end the conversation.
💫 It’s okay to take some time away from others if you need to.
💫 It is normal for you to revert to childish/teenage behaviour when you’re with your family. Pause, take some time and try to show up as your adult self.
💫 If you have lost a loved one, are there may be traditions or rituals that you want to incorporate, or not. You may want to leave a place at the table for them. Whatever feels right for you is the right thing to do. ❤️
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#boundaries #boundariesfortheholidays #healthyboundaries #relationships #loveyourself #setlimits #askforwhatyouneed #beyou #knowyourlimits #holidays #holidaystress #howtosayno #peoplepleaser #peoplepleasers #peoplepleasing #settingboundaries #boundariesmatter #selfcare #selfcarematters #nomoreshoulds #takecareofyourself #takecareofyou #maketimeforyou #holidayboundaries #familyboundaries #therapistsofinstagram #counsellorsofinstagram #blackfemaletherapist

Keep your cool when family dynamics heat up. 🔥 This festive season, practice self-regulation to stay grounded and protect your peace.

What’s your favourite way to reset when things get overwhelming? Let’s build a toolbox of tips together. 🌿 #selfregulation

#StayCalm #MindfulHolidays #FamilyHarmony #MentalHealthAwareness

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