Welcome to our mental health blog!
Never stop learning with our blog bites. Here, we'll share strategies and insights into counselling, psychotherapy, psychology and common concerns. From relaxation strategies and self-improvement tools to managing anxiety, depression or other mental health concerns, as well as introductions to different therapeutic approaches, we’ve got it all covered!
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Parental Guilt: Why It Shows Up & 7 Proven Ways to Soften Its Grip (Even When You Feel Like You’re Failing)
Parental guilt shows up in the smallest moments—a sharp tone you regret, a milestone you fear you missed, or the quiet sting of comparing your real life to someone else’s curated parenting highlight reel. It’s one of the most universal yet least openly discussed parts of being a parent. Guilt isn’t proof that you’re failing—it’s evidence that you care deeply and want to protect, show up, and do right by your child. But when guilt becomes automatic and constant, it can drain confidence, overload your nervous system, and turn everyday parenting into a heavier emotional load than it should be. This article unpacks why guilt appears, the thinking traps that keep it looping, and the gentle, therapist-approved ways to soften its grip so you can parent from connection, resilience, and self-compassion—without chasing an impossible standard of perfect with Counsellor, psychotherapist, & parenting coach, Shifan Hu-Couble.
A necessary step towards trauma healing: cut ties with toxic parents
Cutting ties with toxic parents isn’t impulsive—it’s often a trauma-informed step toward safety, clarity, and healing. Learn how no-contact can protect your peace with psychotherapist & counsellor, Shifan Hu-Couble.
Gaslighting Parents: How to Recognize the Signs, Understand the Impact, and Begin to Heal
You may know what gaslighting looks like in romantic relationships — but what happens when it starts in childhood, from the people meant to protect you? Learn the subtle signs of gaslighting parents and how to reclaim your reality with this blog post.
Unlocking the Power of Symbols in Therapy — How Images, Dreams & Metaphors Help Us Heal
When words fall short, symbols speak. In counselling or therapy, images, dreams, and everyday metaphors give shape to what feels vague or overwhelming, letting the unconscious come forward safely. Psychotherapist, Shifan Hu-Couble shows how symbol work can surface meaning, release stuck emotion, and support healing—at a pace your nervous system can trust.
How to turn sibling rivalry into opportunities for growth
There they go again — shouting, crying, wrestling over toys or snacks. You feel like a full-time referee, worried constant fighting will damage their relationship forever. The good news? Sibling rivalry doesn’t have to be destructive. With the right tools, it can become a pathway for growth, teaching kids resilience, empathy, and communication. In this guide, counsellor & parenting coach, Shifan Hu-Couble, unpacks the causes of sibling rivalry and share strategies to transform tension into connection.
Understanding IBS: How Gut Health and Mental Health Are Connected
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is more than just a digestive issue — it’s a condition where gut health, mental health, and lifestyle are deeply intertwined. In this blog, Counsellor, Shifan Hu-Couble, explores how the gut-brain connection works, why anxiety and depression often accompany IBS, and what holistic steps — from diet to therapy — can help you manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Why People Stay in Unhealthy Relationships and How to Get Out of It?
Why do smart, capable people stay in toxic relationships? The answer is rarely simple. Unhealthy relationship patterns often trace back to early emotional wounds, trauma, and unmet needs. In this blog, Counsellor & Psychotherapist, Shifan Hu-Couble, explores the hidden psychological roots of staying, the grief of leaving, and how survivors can begin to reclaim their lives and rebuild from within.
Overcoming Parental Guilt and Embracing the Joy of Parenthood
Feeling like you're not doing enough as a parent? You're not alone. Parental guilt is a common—and often overwhelming—experience. Social media and modern pressures can make you feel like everyone else is parenting perfectly while you’re just getting by. Counsellor & Parenting Coach, Shifan Hu-Couble, unpacks the psychology behind parental guilt and offers practical, compassionate strategies to help you let go of shame, reconnect with joy, and feel more confident in your parenting journey.
How to Collaborate with Your Inner Critic
Ever found yourself feeling defeated after a small mistake—like missing a yoga session or burning dinner—and then hearing that harsh inner voice that tells you you're not good enough? What if you could turn that critical voice into a supportive ally instead? In this blog, Counsellor & Psychotherapist, Shifan Hu-Couble, shows you how to collaborate with your inner critic, transforming it from a source of stress into a tool for growth and self-compassion. Ready to stop being your own worst enemy? Keep reading to learn how!
A Guide to Forgiveness
Forgiveness is a willingness to let go of resentment, but it's not easy. When we're hurt, shame and anger can consume us. However, forgiveness can bring numerous benefits. Learn how to forgive and move forward with greater emotional freedom.
The Perfect Year-End Gift to Yourself: A Self-Authoring Program
Give yourself the ultimate gift this year-end: clarity, direction, and a renewed sense of purpose. Discover the Self-Authoring Program, a transformative tool crafted by Dr. Jordan Peterson and colleagues. This comprehensive program will guide you through reflection, introspection, and strategic planning, empowering you to author your ideal future.
Are you caring for yourself for real? The four principles of real self-care
Tired of fleeting stress relief? Discover a deeper approach to self-care that goes beyond temporary fixes. Break free from burnout and cultivate lasting well-being with the transformative power of authentic self-care.
Sleep hacks for a good night sleep
Discover the secrets to a restful night's sleep. Sleep is essential for our well-being, boosting immunity, regulating hormones, and healing trauma. Learn about the 4 stages of sleep and 5 simple hacks to improve sleep quality.
What is a dopamine detox, and does it work? By Shifan Hu-Couble
If you have some type of addictive behaviours, chances are you are trapped in the dopamine cycle. Learn what is a dopamine detox and how it can benefit you in regaining control over your life with Counsellor / Psychotherapist / Parenting Coach Shifan Hu-Couble.
What is EMDR and is it for you? by Shifan Hu-Couble
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) is the gold standard for trauma treatment. Find out from Counsellor & Psychotherapist Shifan Hu-Couble what is entailed in an EMDR session and what issues it can be used for.
How to be alone? by Shifan Hu-Couble
Do you have challenges being alone? Learn helpful strategies with Counsellor and Psychotherapist Shifan Hu-Couble to counter your feelings of loneliness. Find out how counselling or psychotherapy can help.
How to Confront and Integrate the Shadow by Shifan Hu-Couble
Learn how to manage and integrate your shadow of hidden judgement into your conscious mind with counsellor Shifan Hu-Couble
A guide to resilience building by Shifan Hu-Couble
Counsellor & Psychotherapist Shifan Hu-Couble takes you through a step-by-by guide on how to build resilience in the face of adversity.
How to live an intentional life by Shifan Hu-Couble
Are you living your best life? Counsellor & Psychotherapist Shifan Hu-Couble takes you through some practical steps to live an intentional life.
Four non-negotiable needs of a Child by Shifan Hu-Couble
Do you understand the needs of your child? Parenting Coach Shifan Hu-Couble shares how attending to the 4 non-negotiable needs of your child can help improve your parenting.