Tag: boundaries
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Emotional Boundaries: What’s in You is Not in Me
Emotional boundaries are invisible lines that separate our feelings, responsibilities, and problems from those of others. They help us distinguish between what is ours to deal with and what belongs to someone else. When we have strong emotional boundaries, we can empathize with others without taking on their emotional burdens.
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The Codependent Sea: A Short Story
Codependency is more than enabling someone’s addiction — it’s a complex psychological trap that can draw even well-adjusted people into harmful relationships. In this post, Dr. Christine Dickson shares insights from decades of clinical experience and introduces her story of the “codependent sea” to help readers recognize, understand, and begin to break free from these…
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Breaking Free from Scapegoating
Growing up in a dysfunctional family can have deep and lasting effects on individuals, especially if they are labeled as the family scapegoat. Scapegoating occurs when one family member is unfairly blamed, criticized, and targeted, carrying the burden of the family’s issues. This article will look at the dynamics of scapegoating, why children are often…
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How to Talk to a Narcissistic Supervisor
Communicating with a narcissistic supervisor can feel overwhelming, but it’s possible to stay professional and effective with the right strategies. In this article, Dr. Christine E. Dickson shares practical tools—such as focusing on facts, using positive language, avoiding ego clashes, and maintaining professionalism—to help employees manage difficult interactions and reduce stress in the workplace.
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6 Steps to Staying Sane in the Conflict Zone
Conflict is an inevitable part of life, but learning how to manage it can protect our wellbeing. As Dr. Christine E. Dickson explains, staying calm in the “conflict zone” is a skill we can develop. By avoiding triggers, not taking things personally, giving ourselves time-outs, practicing mindful breathing, talking through feelings, and keeping a sense…
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Guidelines for Relationship Effectiveness
It’s unrealistic to think that we can avoid conflict in our relationships. Relationship conflict is a natural and normal aspect of any connection. So much so that if a client tells me they never argue with their loved ones, I immediately think something is wrong. However, relationship effectiveness is critical for all successful long-term relationships.…
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Navigating Conflict with Unreasonable People
Everyone knows that it’s impossible to avoid conflict in our personal and professional life. At times, the people in our lives can be completely unreasonable when it comes to conflict. If you are facing conflict with an unreasonable person, it is critical to find effective conflict management strategies. As a psychologist, I spend countless hours…
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5 Ways to Survive a Dysfunctional Workplace
A dysfunctional workplace can drain your energy and confidence, but you’re not stuck. In this post, Dr. Christine E. Dickson shares five practical, evidence-based ways to protect your mental health, set boundaries, and stay resilient — even in a toxic work environment.