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Understanding DARVO is crucial for victims of abuse.

DARVO (Deny, Attack, Reverse, Victim, Offend) is a pattern of behavior used by individuals (particularly those with narcissistic traits) to deflect accountability and manipulate others. It’s a form of gaslighting where a narcissistic individual denies their wrongdoing, attacks the victim, flips the script to portray themselves as the victim, and shifts blame to the other person. DARVO can be particularly harmful in situations involving abuse, where … Read More

Learning How To Say “No”

Some individuals find it difficult to say “no” due to a combination of factors, including fear of disappointing others, a desire to avoid conflict, and a strong need for social approval. These challenges can stem from past experiences where saying “no” was negatively received, or from a deeply ingrained sense of obligation or guilt. Effective “no” communication is direct, concise, and respectful. Learning to say “no” … Read More

Certified Imago Clinical Therapists

Certified Imago Clinical Therapists for Individuals, Couples, and Families on Long Island Imago therapy is a form of counseling that helps individuals and couples understand and improve their relationships by exploring the impact of early childhood experiences on adult relationships. It’s based on the idea that past relationship patterns, particularly those with parents or caregivers, unconsciously shape our current relationship choices and behaviors. Imago therapy aims … Read More

Counseling on Long Island – 2 Locations in Suffolk County, NY

The Holistic Counseling Center offers Individual, Couples & Family Counseling in Long Island, New York. Our priority is providing the finest care possible to our clients, and we take that responsibility seriously. 565 Route 25A (LR4) Miller Place, New York 11764 368 Veterans Memorial Highway (1B) Commack, NY 11725 Feel free to contact us with any questions you have about therapy or making an appointment at … Read More

How To Spot Gaslighting

Gaslighting and other forms of emotional abuse have a significant effect on someone’s well-being. The mental health impact of gaslighting includes feelings of powerlessness, confusion, isolation, disorientation, and low self-esteem. The more awareness about this form of emotional abuse can help people avoid threatening and unhealthy relationships. To spot gaslighting, look for patterns of behavior where someone consistently denies, distorts, or minimizes your reality, feelings, or … Read More

Holistic Therapy for PTSD

Holistic therapy for PTSD or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, encompasses a range of approaches that can address the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects of an individual’s unique condition. Therapy focuses on identifying and challenging negative thoughts and behaviors associated with the trauma. The Holistic Counseling Center of Long Island provides a supportive environment for people to share experiences and connect with a counselor who can … Read More

Lying damages trust & intimacy in relationships, leading to isolation.

Lying, including lying by omission (withholding information), can severely damage trust and intimacy in relationships, leading to communication breakdowns and feelings of isolation. While simply forgetting to mention something might not be a lie, intentionally withholding information with the purpose of deceiving someone is considered lying by omission and harmful. Here’s a breakdown of why lying and withholding information are detrimental: Erosion of Trust: Lying, even … Read More

Navigating challenges together for a lasting & fulfilling marriage.

How couples handle bad times is connected to the success of any marriage, arguably even more important than navigating good times. By navigating challenges together, couples build a strong foundation for a lasting, fulfilling marriage. Here are some reasons why: In contrast, good times, while essential for happiness and relationship satisfaction, can sometimes mask underlying issues or create complacency. By navigating life’s challenges together, couples build … Read More

Link between Anxiety and Breathing

When someone experiences anxiety, their breathing pattern often becomes rapid & shallow, which can exacerbate symptoms. Practicing controlled breathwork can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, effectively calming the body and reducing anxiety by signaling to the brain that it is safe, thus mitigating the “fight or flight” response. Key points about the connection between anxiety & breathwork: Physiological impact: When anxious, the body naturally enters a … Read More

What is Codependency?

Codependency is a learned behavior that involves one person in a relationship sacrificing their own needs for the other person. Codependency can occur in any type of relationship – romantic, platonic, or familial. It can be passed down from one generation to another. Here are some signs of codependency: Over time, this unhealthy pattern can interfere with relationships and contribute to depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and feeling … Read More