Psychotherapy Blog

Healing from toxic relationships Is Your Partner Showing Narcissistic Traits? Here’s How to Spot the Red Flags Being in love can sometimes blur the lines between healthy admiration and emotional manipulation. If you’ve been feeling off in your relationship but can’t quite put your finger on why—this might help.  Here are a few signs your partner may have narcissistic traits:  It’s always about them. Your needs and feelings often get dismissed or minimized.  Charm that fades. They were incredibly charming in the beginning, but now use that charm to manipulate.  No accountability. They never apologize—somehow, it’s always your fault.  Craves constant validation. They need admiration like air and get upset when they don’t receive it.  Gaslighting. They make you question your memory, feelings, or reality.  Control masked as care. They may dictate what you wear, who you talk to, or how you spend your time.  Overreacts to criticism. Even the gentlest feedback is met with anger or defensiveness.  If you’re constantly feeling drained, anxious, or like you’re walking on eggshells, it’s okay to take a step back and reassess.  Awareness is the first step to empowerment.You deserve love that uplifts, not one that diminishes your light. #MentalHealthMatters #ToxicRelationships #NarcissisticTraits #EmotionalAbuseAwareness #KnowTheSigns #RelationshipHealth #HealingJourney #YouAreNotAlone

Childhood Trauma Therapy in Delhi We all have that little version of ourselves still inside—the one who used to get lost in imagination, who laughed at silly things, and who didn’t overthink every single choice. But somewhere along the way, between bills, responsibilities, and “adulting,” we started tuning that voice out. The problem? When we ignore our inner child, life starts feeling heavy. Joy becomes a luxury, self-doubt creeps in, and we forget how to just be. Here’s how to tell if your inner kid has been neglected—and what to do about it: 1.⁠ ⁠You’ve Forgotten How to PlayRemember when an afternoon could disappear into a game of pretend or a pile of LEGOs? Now, if you’re not “productive,” you feel guilty. But here’s the truth: Play isn’t frivolous—it’s how we recharge. Try it: Blow bubbles, finger-paint, or just lie in the grass like you used to. 2.⁠ ⁠You’re Way Too Hard on YourselfThat voice in your head that says, “You should’ve done better”? That’s not you talking—that’s the critic you built to protect yourself. Your inner child just wants a high-five for trying, not a lecture for not being perfect. 3.⁠ ⁠You Shut Down Your EmotionsBig feelings were probably messy as a kid—maybe you were told to “stop crying” or “toughen up.” Now, you might numb out or rationalize away sadness or anger. But emotions aren’t flaws—they’re signals. Let yourself feel them. 4.⁠ ⁠You Dismiss Your Dreams Before You Even Try“That’s not practical.” “Who do you think you are?” Sound familiar? Your inner child didn’t care about “practical.” They wanted to be an astronaut, a rock star, a wizard. Maybe it’s time to dust off an old dream—or at least stop smothering the new ones. 5.⁠ ⁠You Keep Looking Outside for ValidationLikes, promotions, praise—if you’re constantly waiting for someone else to say “You’re good enough,” it’s because that little kid inside still isn’t sure they are. But you’re the grown-up now—you get to tell them: “You always were.” How to Start Healing? Talk to little you. Picture them. What did they need back then? Give it to them now. Let yourself want things. Even if they seem silly. Especially if they seem silly. You don’t have to be a kid again—just let that part of you breathe a little. They’ve been waiting a long time. Your turn: What’s something small you can do today to make your inner child smile? 🌟 Your turn: What’s something small you can do today to make your inner child smile? 🌟 #InnerChildWork #SelfHealing #EmotionalHealth #MentalHealthSupport #TherapyForAll #HealingTools #TherapistTips

Wounded Roots, Wild Branches: How Childhood Trauma Shapes Us — and How Not to Pass It On We are all born open, curious, and unfiltered — wide-eyed little beings who learn about the world through connection. But what happens when that connection is inconsistent? Unsafe? Or worse — painful? As a therapist, I often say: what isn’t healed gets handed down. And childhood trauma is a quiet sculptor. It doesn’t just live in our past — it lives in how we love, how we cope, how we parent, and even how we speak to ourselves. What Is Childhood Trauma, Really? Not all trauma wears visible scars. Sometimes, it’s: Being made to feel responsible for a parent’s emotions Growing up with emotional neglect or constant criticism Witnessing conflict or chaos without the safety of explanation Being loved conditionally — only when we were quiet, helpful, or “good” These experiences send subtle, enduring messages: “I must earn love.”“My needs are too much.”“Emotions are dangerous.”“I am the problem.” How Childhood Trauma Shows Up in Adulthood Even when we grow older, those childhood scripts don’t just disappear — they become our operating systems: We overcompensate at work or in relationships, constantly trying to “prove” ourselves We shut down emotionally, because vulnerability never felt safe We react strongly to rejection or criticism, echoing childhood shame We become hyper-controlling — of situations or people — in an attempt to feel secure Or, most heartbreakingly, we repeat the very patterns we swore we’d never recreate as parents How Trauma Transfers to the Next Generation Unhealed trauma doesn’t only shape us — it shapes how we raise the next generation. A parent who never felt heard may struggle to listen without fixing. A parent who wasn’t allowed to feel may unintentionally shut down their child’s emotions. A parent raised in fear may over-discipline, confusing control for protection.   We don’t do this because we’re bad parents. We do this because no one showed us another way. Breaking the Cycle: Awareness + Action The good news? Patterns can be rewritten. Cycles can end. Healing is always possible. Here’s how to begin: Know your story:Reflect on your own childhood, not to blame, but to understand. What did love look like? Safety? Conflict? Normalize emotional expression:For yourself and your children. It’s okay to cry. It’s okay to be angry. Emotions are not bad — they are information. Respond, don’t react:Pause when triggered. Ask yourself: “Is this about my child — or about my inner child?” Offer repair, not perfection:You will mess up. What matters is owning it, apologizing, and showing your child what healthy accountability looks like. Do your inner work:Therapy is not just for crises. It’s a safe space to unlearn, to feel, and to grow. When you heal yourself, your child benefits — even if they never know how much. Final Thoughts You may not have chosen your childhood. But you can choose your legacy. Every conscious pause, every healed wound, every moment of emotional honesty — it all adds up. You don’t have to be a perfect parent, partner, or person. You just have to be present, intentional, and willing to grow. Let the cycle break with you. Not because you were broken — But because you are brave.

The Secret to a Strong Relationship: It’s Not Love, It’s This The Truth About Love & Relationships: Are You Really Listening? Most couples I meet tell me that their relationship is falling apart because “there is no love.” When I hear this, I often ask: When was there love? And more often than not, my question is met with a long, telling silence. As a psychologist, I’ve come to realize that love is one of the most overrated concepts in relationships. Many couples function smoothly as long as one partner suppresses their true self and simply responds to the other’s expectations. But the moment they start expressing their own needs, feelings, and opinions—suddenly, the relationship starts to crack. The Real Issue: Lack of Emotional & Physical Connection A major concern I frequently hear from couples is their diminishing physical intimacy. Some haven’t been intimate in weeks or even months. Women, in particular, express that their partners don’t truly understand their physical and emotional needs. When intimacy does happen, it often lacks warmth—no foreplay, no cuddles, no tenderness—just a mechanical act. Yet, ironically, many partners openly notice and admire other people. Some even admit that external attractions serve as their rare spark for physical intimacy. This disconnection in relationships doesn’t happen overnight—it’s a gradual erosion, left unchecked until resentment builds to a breaking point. The Unspoken Words That Destroy Relationships Many people avoid expressing their feelings because they fear hurting their partner. But here’s the paradox—silence does more damage than honesty ever will. When emotions, needs, and concerns go unspoken, they don’t disappear; they pile up like an emotional ticking time bomb. And by the time couples finally reach a therapist’s office, they are often drowning in resentment, sadness, or even the aftermath of an extramarital affair. What Can You Do?  Speak Up – The foundation of any strong relationship is open communication. If something is bothering you—emotionally, physically, or mentally—say it before the distance grows too wide.  Emotional & Physical Connection Matters – A relationship isn’t just about being together; it’s about truly feeling together. Prioritize intimacy, affection, and quality time with your partner.  Don’t Wait for the “Right Moment” – One of the greatest gifts humanity has is communication. Don’t save your words for a later day—that rainy day is today. If you’re feeling unheard or undervalued despite your efforts, it may be time to take a deeper look at your relationship. Final Thoughts A fulfilling relationship isn’t about avoiding difficult conversations—it’s about embracing them. Life is too short to live in silent dissatisfaction. Be honest, be open, and if your efforts go unrecognized, know that you have every right to take a stand for your own happiness. Need help navigating your relationship challenges? I’m here to listen and guide you. 💛 Love & Light

Compatibility vs. Adaptability The Key to a Stronger Relationship People often say, “We have compatibility issues,” as if relationships are like assembling a tech device—where every piece must perfectly fit to function. But here’s the truth: people aren’t products. Products are designed and manufactured with built-in compatibility. People, on the other hand, are unique individuals with their own personalities, emotions, and life experiences. So, is compatibility really the problem? Or is it adaptability? The Compatibility Myth We’ve been conditioned to believe that compatibility is the secret to a successful relationship. We look for partners who share our interests, values, or even favorite TV shows. But what happens when life throws challenges our way? When opinions shift, priorities change, and circumstances evolve, is compatibility enough to sustain love? The reality is, even the most “compatible” couples face struggles. Differences will always exist, no matter how similar two people appear to be. What truly makes a relationship thrive is the willingness to adapt, adjust, and grow together. Why Adaptability Matters More A strong relationship isn’t about finding someone who effortlessly fits into your life. It’s about two individuals willing to evolve together. Adaptability means: Embracing Change: Life is unpredictable. Jobs change, families expand, personal interests shift. Couples who adapt to change together remain strong through transitions. Effective Communication: It’s not about agreeing all the time but about being able to navigate differences with mutual respect and understanding. Emotional Intelligence: Recognizing your partner’s needs, emotions, and responses and adapting your approach to support them strengthens the bond. Resilience: When conflicts arise, adaptable couples don’t give up—they work through them, learning and growing from every challenge. How to Cultivate Adaptability in Your Relationship Shift Your Mindset – Stop searching for perfection and embrace the beauty of growth and change. Practice Active Listening – Understand your partner’s perspective without rushing to defend your own. Be Open to Compromise – Adaptability doesn’t mean losing yourself, but rather finding a middle ground where both partners feel valued. Embrace Individual Growth – Personal development leads to collective strength. Encourage each other to evolve rather than resist change. Stay Curious – The person you love today might not be exactly the same in five years. Keep rediscovering each other. The Bottom Line Instead of worrying about compatibility, start focusing on adaptability. Relationships aren’t about finding someone who perfectly fits into your life from day one; they’re about building a life together, learning, adjusting, and evolving along the way. Love isn’t about avoiding differences—it’s about learning how to dance with them. #AdaptToLove #RelationshipsMatter #LoveIsAGrowthProcess

Childhood Trauma can have a significant impact on adult relationships, sculpting how individuals form, develop & grow their emotional & physical bonds & dependency. Here are a few key ways it manifests: Association & Attachment Issues Dysregulated Emotions: Excessive or constant mood swings, emotional outbursts & showdowns Highly sensitive towards rejection, criticism & perceived neglect. Issues Related to Low Self Esteem / Self Worth: Fear of Betrayal Easy to feel betrayed and difficulty in trusting others because of past neglect in relationships  Socially disengaging & are not comfortable interacting with new people. Are under constant fear of being judged! Repetition of Past Trauma (Reenactment)  Hyper-Independence or Codependency Fear of Conflict or Overreacting to It Avoiding disagreements to prevent emotional pain. Reacting intensely to minor conflicts due to unresolved past wounds.

The Power of the Mind: Nurturing Mental Well-being It’s All in the Mind Have you ever heard a gynecologist or pediatrician declare that a newborn has depression or anxiety? Unless there is a major physical or cognitive complication at birth, mental health issues are not inherent—they develop over time. Mystics and philosophers have long emphasized one truth: what sets humans apart from other species is our intelligence—the fifth element, our ability to think, reason, and discriminate. This mental faculty is our greatest gift. The Role of Genetics and Personal Effort Our physical health is largely influenced by genetics, but even our genes can only take us so far. Maintaining physical fitness requires conscious effort. While some people may seem naturally fit, their lifestyle choices often support their health, even without a strict exercise regimen. Similarly, mental well-being demands intentional care and effort—an aspect many neglect. Our minds, like our bodies, need regular nourishment and maintenance to function optimally. The Neglect of Mental Health Only recently has society begun to recognize the critical importance of mental health. For too long, we have overlooked it amidst hectic work schedules, strained relationships, the pursuit of wealth, and societal pressures. This neglect has led to widespread mental exhaustion and emotional imbalance. The growing commercialization of meditation, spirituality, and self-help practices reflects a collective yearning to fill this void. While these tools offer relief, they have also evolved into profit-driven industries. Harnessing the Mind’s Power Concepts like the law of attraction, manifestation, and positive thinking highlight the mind’s immense power. Our brain, which consumes about 20% of the body’s oxygen, functions like software, requiring regular updates and care to effectively support our physical “hardware.” In my astro-psychological and parapsychological evaluations, I always explore an individual’s belief systems, childhood influences, and current environment—all crucial factors shaping their mindset. Prioritise Your Mental Wellness Every person is unique, and so are their mental health needs. Finding healthy outlets for emotional release is essential. Whether it’s sports, meditation, yoga, or any recreational activity you love, PRIORITISE IT!  Empower your mind and protect it from stress. While we can’t control how the world operates, we can choose how we perceive and respond to it. Invest in your mind. Strengthen it. Nurture it. Because a balanced mind leads to a balanced life.

How Important is Gentle Parenting? Raising Hearts, Nurturing Minds: The Essence of Gentle Parenting At a recent workshop, a mother asked, “How crucial is gentle parenting, and isn’t it hard to practice when both partners aren’t on the same page?” Her question gave me pause. Gentle parenting is a subjective concept—it means different things to different families. But one thing is clear: it’s almost impossible to practice effectively unless both parents are aligned. For some, gentle parenting represents an equitable partnership, where responsibilities are shared—from attending ultrasounds to diaper changes, feeding, and bedtime stories. For others, it’s about balancing priorities, managing finances, and making personal sacrifices to create a harmonious environment for their child. At its heart, gentle parenting is about conscious upbringing: raising children in a way that prioritizes their emotional well-being and innate curiosity while minimizing trauma. Children observe, sense, and internalize far more than we often realize—even from the womb. When we think they’re busy playing, they’re absorbing our emotions, conversations, and actions. Our goal as parents? To help our children grow into their unique, authentic selves, not replicas of us. Gentle parenting strives to nurture individuality while creating an emotionally safe environment. After all, humanity thrives in its diversity, not conformity.  Let’s raise a generation that explores, evolves, and thrives in their uniqueness.  Ready to break free from emotional burdens? Let’s embark on a journey of healing and growth together. #GentleParenting #ChildhoodTrauma #ParentingTips #ConsciousParenting

How to stop negative thinking and achieve success Success is not just a destination but a journey—a combination of failures, constructive feedback, and the determination to persevere and overcome challenges. While it’s essential to focus on the habits that drive success, it’s equally important to recognize and avoid behaviors that hinder progress. Here are six key things to avoid if you want to succeed: 1. Negative Thinking Negative thinking often leads to self-sabotage. Your mindset plays a critical role in shaping your reality. Instead of dwelling on obstacles, shift your focus to possibilities and solutions. Replace “I can’t” with “How can I?” and watch your perspective transform. 2.Self-Doubt Believing in your abilities is a cornerstone of success. Self-doubt creates barriers where none exist, keeping you from reaching your full potential. Surround yourself with positivity, set achievable goals, and celebrate small victories to build confidence. 3.Blaming Others Taking responsibility for your actions is empowering. Blaming others not only damages relationships but also shifts your focus away from solutions. Instead, adopt accountability as a tool for personal and professional growth. 4.Toxic People Toxic relationships drain your energy and enthusiasm. Whether it’s negativity, criticism, or lack of support, these interactions can derail your progress. Prioritize healthy, supportive connections that inspire and uplift you. 5.Procrastination Procrastination is a dream killer. It delays progress and increases stress. T ackle tasks head-on by breaking them into manageable steps, setting deadlines, and rewarding yourself for completion. 6.Fear of Failure Fear of failure can prevent you from taking the necessary risks to grow. Remember, every failure is a stepping stone to success. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity and keep moving forward. Conclusion Success is a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and learning. By consciously avoiding negative behaviors such as procrastination, self-doubt, and toxic influences, you can pave the way to personal and professional fulfillment. Remember, every challenge you overcome adds to the story of your success. For more inspiration and tips, visit Prince Dhawan.

Loneliness: A Slow Poison That Success Can’t Cure Recently, I met a remarkable woman in her early 50s, let’s call her Miss L. She was referred to me by a close contact and had been diagnosed with Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD). Despite a psychiatrist’s recommendation for medication and therapy, Miss L chose not to continue her treatment. When I asked why, her response was simple yet profound:“I didn’t want to get hooked on psychiatric drugs.” The Picture of Success Miss L is a powerhouse in her field—a senior leader overseeing compliance and governance at a multinational conglomerate. Her career has taken her across the globe, and her financial stability is noteworthy. Yet, despite all her success, something was missing. In our sessions, she opened up about her personal life. She had a few relationships but never married. When she was close to tying the knot, she pulled back at the last minute. I asked her why. Her answer: “I was scared of losing my freedom and career.” Roots of Loneliness Miss L’s reluctance to marry stemmed from a turbulent childhood. Her parents had a strained relationship, and she often found herself acting as her mother’s savior, growing up under a domineering father. Watching her parents’ constant conflict, she resolved early on never to marry. When I asked if she was proud of her decision, she remained silent. Her loneliness is palpable. Despite her thriving career, she finds herself yearning for companionship. Her professional accolades can’t fill the void left by the absence of a family or someone to come home to at the end of a long day. A Universal Struggle Miss L’s story isn’t unique. I’ve met individuals on both ends of the spectrum—those trapped in toxic relationships and those struggling with the emptiness of no relationship. Both extremes are challenging in their own ways. Blessed are those who find someone they can share a meaningful life with. My Advice No relationship is without its challenges. If you’re lucky enough to have a partner who respects and loves you, focus on what unites you rather than what divides you. Differences can always be resolved with healthy communication and good intentions. For those caught up in their careers, remember:Loneliness is a slow poison. Your professional success can never replace the warmth and connection of personal relationships. If you’re struggling to balance work and family, prioritize your loved ones. Find a job that allows you to meet both your personal and professional needs. Don’t sacrifice the present for a future where you might find yourself alone. After all, what good is success if there’s no one to share it with? Takeaway: Relationships, no matter how imperfect, enrich our lives in ways that success never can. Cherish them, nurture them, and don’t let the pursuit of success rob you of the joy of meaningful connections. If you’re alone and seeking a relationship, trust the universe and seek for a genuine connection. The universe operates as a community, guided by the principle of collective consciousness. Whatever we focus on and prioritize, the universe has its own way of bringing it into our lives.  #MentalHealthMatters #Relationships #WorkLifeBalance #EmotionalWellbeing