Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA): The Invisible Battle for Autonomy in a World of Expectations
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is more than procrastination—it’s a nervous system response rooted in anxiety, trauma, and a deep need for autonomy. This post explores how PDA shows up in daily life, how it overlaps with rejection sensitivity, and what it means to truly support someone caught in the cycle of avoidance, shame, and overwhelm.
Understanding Attachment Styles: How They Shape Relationships and Emotional Well-Being
Our attachment styles—secure, anxious, avoidant, or disorganized—play a key role in how we form and navigate relationships. Rooted in early experiences, these patterns influence intimacy, trust, and communication. Dive into the characteristics of each style and discover strategies to foster emotional growth and healthier bonds.
From Survival to Healing: Trauma, Attachment, and the Path to Emotional Resilience
In our latest addition to our “From Survival to Healing” trauma series, "Understanding Trauma, Attachment and Emotional Resilience," by Francesca Wehr, LCSW, delves into the intricate relationship between our earliest attachments and their lasting impact on our adult lives. Uncover the subtle signs of traumatic attachment and how they manifest in our relationships, often without our conscious awareness. Francesca provides enlightening insights into recognizing these patterns and embarking on a journey toward healing and emotional resilience. Join us on the Pathways to Wellness Blog for expert guidance on transforming traumatic attachments into sources of strength and healthier connections.
Abusive Relationships, Gaslighting, and the Cycle of Violence: Warning Signs and Pathways to Wellness
Pathways to Wellness: Insights from Francesca Wehr, LCSW Mental Health Counseling discusses the red flags and warning signs of toxic and abusive relationships, the cycle of violence, how to leave abusive relationships safely, and the resources available for those affected by domestic abuse. Recognizing and addressing these issues can empower individuals to seek help and break free from unhealthy relationships.
Navigating the Ties That Bind: Understanding Attachment Styles and Fostering Healthy Relationships
Pathways to Wellness: Insights from Francesca Wehr, LCSW Mental Health Counseling explores the concept of attachment styles, their impact on our relationships, and strategies for fostering healthier attachment patterns. Understanding your attachment style and learning how to cultivate secure attachments can lead to stronger, more fulfilling relationships.
Embracing Your Inner Child: A Journey to Self-Healing and Growth
Pathways to Wellness: Insights from Francesca Wehr, LCSW Mental Health Counseling delves into the concept of inner child work, a therapeutic approach that can promote self-healing, personal growth, and emotional well-being. By exploring and addressing the needs of our inner child, we can foster a greater understanding of ourselves, create healthier relationships, and ultimately lead more fulfilling lives.
Healing Old Wounds: Understanding Repetition Compulsion in Relationships
In today's blog, we will discuss the concept of repetition compulsion, a psychological phenomenon where individuals unconsciously seek out relationships that mirror past traumas or experiences in an attempt to heal old wounds. Recognizing and addressing repetition compulsion can lead to healthier, more fulfilling relationships and improved mental well-being.
