I was not sure what to expect but knew I needed to regain focus/vision to forge ahead in my PhD program.

The theme I went in with was a need for balance in my life, and Gretchen totally facilitated my ability to clearly see what I need to do to accomplish this balance in all areas.

- Pam R.

5 Things That Sabotage Your Healing and How To Avoid Them

Apr 21, 2024

Overcome Obstacles on Your Path to Healing

Today, we're going to explore some common obstacles that could be hindering your healing journey and discuss some practical strategies to overcome them. If you're a survivor of childhood abuse or intimate partner violence, please know that you're not alone, and healing is possible. Let's get ready to empower ourselves and overcome these challenges.

1. Healing in an Unsupportive Environment

One of the biggest barriers to healing is attempting to navigate your journey in an unsupportive environment. Whether it's a toxic family dynamic, an abusive relationship, or a lack of understanding from those around you, trying to heal in these conditions can feel like swimming against a strong current. It's crucial to recognize that your environment plays a significant role in your healing process. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you, and create spaces that nurture your growth and well-being.

2. Lack of Trauma-Informed Therapy

Finding the right therapist or counselor who understands trauma and abuse is essential for your healing journey. Unfortunately, not all therapists are trauma-informed, and some may lack the understanding needed to support survivors effectively. If you find yourself in therapy that feels invalidating or dismissive of your experiences, don't hesitate to seek out a therapist who specializes in trauma-informed care. Your healing deserves to be honored and supported by someone who truly understands and respects your journey.

3. Seeking Advice From Unhealed Individuals

Along your healing journey, you may encounter well-meaning individuals who offer advice or guidance based on their own experiences. While their intentions may be good, it's essential to discern whether they have found the same healing that you are seeking for themselves. Advice from unhealed individuals can be well-intentioned but ultimately harmful, as it may not align with your needs or experiences. Surround yourself with people who have walked a similar path and found healing, and seek guidance from those who can support your journey.

4. Trying to Fit Into Someone Else's Mold

Everyone's path to healing is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Avoid the trap of trying to achieve healing on someone else's terms. Your journey is yours alone, and you have the power to define what healing looks like for you. Trust your intuition and honor your needs, even if they go against societal expectations or the paths others have taken. Embrace your authenticity and create your own path of healing, guided by self-compassion and self-awareness.

5. Waiting for External Validation or Rescue

It's a common misconception that someone else can "fix" us or "love our trauma away." While support from loved ones can be invaluable, true healing comes from within. Waiting for external validation or rescue can keep you stuck in a cycle of dependency and disempowerment. Instead, focus on cultivating self-love, self-compassion, and self-validation. You are the hero of your own story, and your healing journey begins with embracing your inherent worthiness and inner strength.

I'd like to encourage you to remember that you are worthy of healing, love, and support. By recognizing and addressing these obstacles, you can empower yourself to navigate your healing journey with resilience and determination. Trust in your ability to overcome challenges, and know that you are never alone on this path.

Warmly,

Gretchen

SOMATIC TRAUMA SPECIALIST + ENERGETIC INTUITIVE