Most people have a clear idea of what grief is meant to look like. It’s expected to arrive after an obvious loss. A death. An ending. Something visible. And sometimes, that is exactly how grief unfolds. But there is another kind of grief — quieter, less obvious — that runs unseen through a large proportion of the difficulties that bring people into therapy. It doesn’t announce itself as grief. It shows up indirectly. When something feels unfinished People often arrive in ther

Signs of Childhood Emotional Neglect in Adults Many adults make it well into their 30s, 40s, or even later before realising their anxiety, shame, or relationship struggles connect back to something subtle that happened in childhood — or more accurately, something that didn’t happen. Childhood Emotional Neglect (CEN) isn’t about dramatic events. It’s about the quiet absence of emotional responsiveness, understanding, or support. Nothing explosive. Nothing “obvious.” And that’s

Many adults come to therapy saying: “I don’t know what I feel.” “I’m just… fine.” “I disconnect without meaning to.” “I struggle to find the words.” This isn’t apathy or a lack of depth. It’s a form of emotional disconnection , often shaped by childhood experiences or chronic stress. Understanding Emotional Disconnection Emotional disconnection can be confusing. It often feels like a fog that prevents you from understanding your feelings. This disconnection is not a sign of w

Feeling low, stuck, or weighed down by depression can make even the smallest steps feel overwhelming. Reaching out for therapy is a brave move, but many people aren’t sure where to begin. Here’s a simple guide to help you take that first step. 1. Know Your Options In Glasgow, there are two main routes into therapy: NHS services – You can speak to your GP, who may refer you to a mental health team or local psychological services. These are free but often come with waiting lis

What’s wrong with me? If you’ve asked this and can’t find an answer, discover why self-analysis keeps you stuck — and how therapy offers...

Is coping your disguise? Discover the hidden cost of always being capable, and how therapy can help you feel seen and supported. People might see you as strong, capable, and always coping — but inside, it can feel very different. Is there a part of you that always stays busy, competent, and capable? Maybe you’re the one who looks after others, focuses on work, and just gets on with it. People might even call you strong. But sometimes “being strong” is really just survival. Of

Narcissistic Traits vs. Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) vs. Immature Parents Understanding the difference between narcissistic traits, full-blown Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), and immature parenting can help you make sense of confusing or painful relationships. 1. Narcissistic Traits (Mild or Situational) These are common personality features that many people might show from time to time, especially under stress or when insecure. Examples include: Needing p

Watching The Iron Claw, I was struck by the childlike quality of the main character, played by Zac Efron. There is something profoundly young about him, as though part of him never quite had the chance to develop in the presence of a safe, emotionally attuned adult. At first, parts of the family picture appear almost idyllic. The boys are action-oriented, competing, wrestling, and striving together in ways that seem natural within the world they inhabit. There is energy, phys

Many people go through life unaware that their childhood experiences of emotional neglect or abuse are still affecting them. Often, it isn’t until adulthood, when symptoms start to surface, that they begin to realise something is amiss. Emotional neglect can be subtle and invisible, making it easy to overlook. Unlike physical neglect or abuse, which may leave visible signs like bruises or clear evidence of deprivation, emotional neglect leaves behind scars that are harder to

Have you ever had a sense that something is a bit off — not dramatically wrong, just something that doesn’t settle? Maybe a low-level emptiness, a tendency to overthink, or a difficulty really connecting with people, even when you want to. For people who experienced neglect as children, the past doesn’t show up clearly. It sits in the background — not as a memory, but as a general sense that something isn’t right. Neglect isn’t always about what happened. Often, it’s about wh

Childhood neglect leaves a mark. It’s not always visible, and it doesn’t scream for attention the way other wounds might. Instead, it whispers through the cracks in adulthood, shaping how we see ourselves, how we relate to others, and how we navigate the world. For those who experienced neglect as children, life becomes a delicate dance between surviving and living—between the old patterns that once kept them safe and the present moment that asks for something new. Neglect te

How to Heal and Thrive as an Adult Raised by Narcissistic Parents Growing up with narcissistic parents can have lasting emotional effects that impact every aspect of your adult life. From distorted self-worth to difficulty in forming healthy relationships, the scars of being raised by a narcissist can linger long after you leave the family home. However, it’s possible to heal and reclaim your life. In this post, we’ll explore common signs that you were raised by narcissistic

Schemas The 18 Original Early Maladaptive Schemas (according to Jeffrey Young): Abandonment/Instability – The belief that close relationships are unstable and unreliable, leading to fears of abandonment. Mistrust/Abuse – The expectation that others will hurt, abuse, or betray you. Emotional Deprivation – The belief that emotional needs will not be met by others. Defectiveness/Shame – The feeling that one is fundamentally flawed, unworthy, or not good enough. Social Isolation/