Stress

Understanding Stress – And How Counselling Can Help

Stress is a natural part of life. At times, it can even be helpful – sharpening our focus,
nudging us to meet a deadline, or prompting us to make a needed change. But when stress
becomes constant, overwhelming, or starts to affect your health, relationships, or sense of
self, it’s a signal that support may be needed.

After more than 30 years of working with people navigating stress in its many forms, I’ve
come to deeply respect how uniquely each person experiences it. For some, stress shows up
as racing thoughts, tight muscles, or restless nights. For others, it may look like withdrawal,
irritability, or a sense of being stuck. However it shows up for you, it deserves attention and
care. You can move through this with my help.

Why Stress Can Feel So Heavy

Life places many demands on us – work, family, relationships, health, finances, or even the
pressure to simply “hold it all together.” Over time, our internal capacity can begin to wear
thin, and what used to feel manageable can start to feel like too much.

Stress isn’t just “in your head” – it lives in the body, shapes our thinking, and impacts our
emotional world. It can trigger old patterns, intensify anxiety, or stir up feelings we may not
fully understand. That’s where therapy can help. I can help you.

How I Work With Stress

My approach is grounded in compassion, presence, and relationship. I don’t offer quick fixes
or generic advice. Instead, I create a safe, steady space where you can begin to make sense of
your stress – gently, at your pace, and with support.

Together, we might explore:

• What’s underneath the stress: the beliefs, pressures, or unresolved experiences that
  may be feeding it.
• How your body holds stress: and how to bring regulation and calm where there’s
  overwhelm.
• What boundaries or changes might be needed: to support more balance in your
  life.
• Your strengths and resources: even when they feel out of reach.

I draw on decades of experience to support people  with tools and strategies and just being
with you in your experience.

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

Stress can be isolating. It can leave you feeling like you should be coping better, or that no
one else feels quite like you do. But you’re not alone – and you don’t have to carry it all by
yourself.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or just not quite yourself, it might be time to talk.
I’m here to walk alongside you – with empathy, warmth, and care.

You deserve support that meets you where you are. I am just a phone call or email away.