Sibling estrangement, like sibling abuse, is often considered a taboo subject or at least, a very uncomfortable conversation to have, with many seeing the issues and refusing to discuss them.

People may refuse to discuss sibling abuse and how it can lead to estrangement, possibly as a result of being brought up to believe that 'family is everything' no matter what the circumstances because 'blood is thicker than water'. Unfortunately, as with not recognising or discussing sibling abuse, unrefrigerated blood coagulates and will rot and smell!

Sibling estrangement refers to a situation where siblings experience a significant and ongoing breakdown in their relationship, leading to a loss of closeness and emotional connection. Sibling estrangement is characterised by a prolonged and often complete separation or distancing between siblings, where they may have little to no contact or communication with each other.

Sibling estrangement can manifest in various ways. Sibling estrangement could refer to silings who were once close but have grown apart over time due to differences in values, beliefs, or lifestyles. Sibling estrangement can also occur as a result of unresolved conflicts, jealousy, competition, resentment between siblings, or even a personality disorder of one or more siblings such as psycopathy, sociopathy, narcissism or borderline personality disorder. Sometimes, major life events such as divorce, financial disputes, or the death of a parent can strain sibling relationship, leading to estrangement.

The causes of sibling estrangement can be complex and multifaceted, often involving a combination of individual personalities, family dynamics, and life circumstances. All of this contributes to sibling estrangement being a subjective experience with the reason for the estrangement varying greatly from person to person and from one family to another.

Sibling estrangement can have significant emotional implications for those involved. Estragement of siblings can result in feelings of sadness, loss, anger, guilt, loneliness and hatered or a combination of these and other emotions in varying degrees. Family gatherings and celebrations may become tense or avoided altogether.

With all the emotions, reasons and hardship that estrangement can elicit, in some cases, sibling estragement can be a necessary step for individuals to protect their well being and establish healthier relationships, including creating and reinforcing boundaries.

It is helpful to approach sibling estrangement with empathy and understanding, as the decision to estrange oneself from a sibling or to maintain distance is very often extremely emotional, deeply personal and can be influenced by a variety of factors. Counseling or therapy can be helpful for individuals seeking support and guidance in navigating the complexities of sibling relationships and estrangement.

Sibling estrangement can take place at any point in life. There are various reasons why siblings may become estranged from each other, and the timing can differ for each individual or sibling relationship. Some common triggers for sibling estrangement include:

1. Childhood conflicts: Excessive or extreme sibling rivalries or conflicts during childhood can sometimes escalate and lead to long term estrangement. These conflicts may arise from differences in personalities, competition for parental attention, disagreement over various issue and even parental favouritism towards one child over another or others.

1. Major life changes: Significant life events such as marriage, divorce, relocation, or the death of a parent can strain sibling relationships. Changes in family dynamics or responsibilities can create tension and lead to estrangement.

    

2. Personal differences: Differences in values, beliefs, or lifestyles can also contribute to sibling estrangement. Divergent political or religious views, contrasting life choices, or conflict regarding personal decisions can strain the sibling bond.

    

3. Unresolved conflicts: Unresolved conflicts or resentments that build up over time can cause siblings to drift apart. If issues are left unaddressed or communication breaks down, it can become challenging to maintain a healthy relationship.

    

4. Traumatic experiences: Traumatic events, such as abuse, addiction, or betrayal within the family, can fracture sibling relationships. The emotional aftermath of such experiences can be complex and lead to estrangement as siblings struggle to cope with the aftermath.

Unfortunately sibling estrangement is not uncommon, and it can occur at any stage of life. While some estrangements may be temporary and can be resolved with time and effort, others may be more permanent. Each situation is unique, and the decision to reconcile or maintain distance ultimately depends on the individuals involved and their willingness to work through their issues, which mental help professionals may be able to assist with.

Ingrid is a mental health professional (Social Worker) in private practice with special interest in clinical work & Somatic Therapies. She is an EMDR, Brainspotting, TIR practitioner, Hypnotherapist (CPT), & is registered with SACSSP. To find out more how she can assist & book an appointment, email Ingrid@inneressence.co.za. Sessions are claimable from medical insurance. Please visit her website on http://www.inneressence.co.za.

#Socialworkprofession; #abuse #psychology; #siblingestrangement;

#Brainspotting; #therapy; #medicalfield; #siblingabuse;

#psychotherapy; #counseling #anxiety; #PTSD; #emotionalhealth; #socialwork #mentalhealth; #narcissism;

#sociopathy; #psychopathy; #borderline; #personalitydisorder

Pathological lying, also known as pseudologia fantastica, is a behaviour where an individual habitually lies or exaggerates to an excessive and often compulsive degree. The lies told by a pathological liar are typically grandiose and may be intended to gain attention, admiration, financial gain, sympathy, or to avoid punishment or responsibility.

Pathological lying is considered a mental health condition, often associated with other mental health disorders such as narcissistic, borderline, historionic or antisocial personality disorders. Pathological lying can also be a symptom of underlying psychiatric conditions such as bi polar, schizophrenia or substance abuse disorder.

Individuals with pathological lying tendencies may not always be aware of their behaviour and may genuinely believe their own lies. Pathological lying can have serious consequences, including damaging relationships, loss of trust, and legal or financial implications. Treatment for pathological lying typically involves therapy to develop healthier coping mechanisms and commnication skills.

Ingrid is a mental health professional (Social Worker), Somatic Therapist with special interest in Clinical Work. She's an EMDR, Brainspotting, TIR practitioner, Hypnotherapist, & is registered with SACSSP. To find out more how she can assist & book an appointment, email Ingrid@inneressence.co.za. Sessions are claimable from medical insurance. Please visit her website on http://www.inneressence.co.za.

#Anxiety, #hypnotherapy, #PTSD, #Secondarygain, #Ego, #narcissism, #Avoidance #CPTSD

#TIR, #DBT, #boarderline, #Trust, #EMDR, #Mentalhealth, #depression, #Somatictherapy, #victimmantality, #Lying, #counseling, #Trauma, #histrionic, #schizophrenia, #bipolar, #relationshipdamage, #CBT

Somatic therapies are a form of therapy that focus on the mind-body connection and the experiences of the body. They recognise that our physical sensations, movements, and gestures can reflect and nfluence our emotional and psychological wellbeing. Somatic therapy approaches aim to address and heal trauma, stress, anxiety and other emotional issues by incorprating the body into the therapeutic process.

There are several different types of somatic therapies, including:

1. Somatic Experiencing (SE): Developed by Peter A Levine, SE focuses on regulating the autonomic nervous system and completing the body's instinctual responses to traumatic experiences.

    

2. Sensorimotor Psycotherapy; This approach integrates cognitive and body-centred technques to address trauma-related symptoms and promote self awareness.

    

3. Body-Mind Psychotherapy: Combining body-centred awareness with talk therapy. This approach emphasizes the connection between the mind, body, and emotions.

    

4. Hakomi Therapy: This technique was developed by Ron Kurtz.  Hakomi is a mindfulness-based somatic therapy that explores how our beliefs and experiences are held in our bodies. It uses gentle touch, movement, and mindfulness to access and transform unconscious patterns.

    

5. Dance/Movement Therapy: This modality uses movement and dance as a way to explore emotions, self expression, and personal growth. It can be particularly helpful for individuals who may have difficulty expressing themselves verbally.

    

6. Bioenergetic Analysis: Bioenergetic therapists use physical exercises, breathing techniques, and body work to release emotional and muscular tension, allowing for greater self awareness and personal growth.

1. Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing:  Developed by Dr Francine Shapiro. This is a bi lateral eye movement which connects the left and the right side of the human brain through eye movement, tapping of shoulders or legs to reprocess traumatic experiences to desensitise the brain to the emotional triggers which may be present.

    

2. Brainspotting: Developed by Dr David Grand. This is a bi lateral music listening while focusing on a pointer. The client listens to bi lateral musis which moves from left to right while the client is using headphones and focuses on a pointer. The brain processes the trauma related thought while the client notices thoughts, feelings and body sensations to release emotional and psychological triggers.

    

3. TRE (Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises): This technique was developed by Frank Gerbode and Gerald French. This is an innovative series of exercises that assists the body in releasing deep muscular patterns of tension, trauma and stress. The exercises safely activates a natural reflex mechanism of vibrating or shaking that releases muscular tension, thus calming down the nervous system. When the shaking or vibrating mechanism is activates in a safe and controlled environment, the body is encourages to return back to a state of balance.

Facilitating somatic therapy typically requires specialised training and expertise. Professionals who may facilitate somatic therapies include licensed mental health professionals, such as social workers, psychiatrists, psychologists or counsellors, may incorporate somatic techniques into their therapeutic practices.

It's important to note that the specific qualifications and certifications required may vary depending on the country, state, or region. When seeking a somatic therapist, it's advisable to ensure they have appropriate training, credentials, and experience in the specific somatic therapy modality you are interested in.

Ingrid is a mental health professional (Social Worker) in private practice with special interest in clinical work & Somatic Therapies. She is an EMDR, Brainspotting, TIR practitioner, Hypnotherapist, & is registered with SACSSP. To find out more how she can assist & book an appointment, email Ingrid@inneressence.co.za. Sessions are claimable from medical insurance. Please visit her website on http://www.inneressence.co.za.

#Anxiety; #hypnotherapy; #somaticexperience; #depression; #Brainspotting; #painmanagement; #psychology; #burnout; #psychotherapy; #EMDR; #counseling; #chronicpain #PTSD; #emotionalhealth; #socialwork; #trauma; #mentalhealth; #stress; #therapy; #wellness,#Brainspotting, #TIR, #Hypnotherapy' #Reiki, #Accessbars

A toxic parent is a parent who consistently exhibits harmful and negatvie behaviour towards their child or children. This harmful behaviour can include neglect, emotional abuse, physical abuse, verbal abuse, financial abuse or sexual abuse (or a combination of all of these) and manipulation.

Toxic parents are also known to engage in controlling and narcissistic behaviour, and may constantly belittle or criticise their children. Often, these parents have strong traces or full blown personality disorders such as Narcissism, Sociopathy, Psychopathy, Histrionic or Boarderline Personality Disorder.

Below are basic definitions for the above mentioned Personality Disorders:

Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD): Commonly found in men but not exclusive to men. The cause is unknown but it is believed to be nature-nurture combination (genetic and environmental factors). Those with Narcissistic Personality Disorder commonly display the following symptoms:

• A sense of self importance

• Preoccupation with power and status, success and beauty.

• An overly high sense of Entitlement

• Feel the need to be around others who are perceived as important or special.

• Exploit others for their own gain

• Arrogance

• Lack empathy towards others

• Overbearing need to be admired and acknowledged

• Often envious of others or believe that others are envious of them

Psychopathy:

• Individuals with psychopathy have a tendency to behave in ways that may cause others physical, social, emotional and financial harm with the individual having no negative feelings or remorse for their behaviour.

• Individuals with psychopathy don't express or feel remorse nor guilt of their actions towards others.

• Individuals with psychopathy don't display concern when others are in any form of distress

• Individuals with psychopathy lie, use or manipulate others to get what they want with no thouht or concern given to the consequence to the recipient

• Individuals with psychopathy often come across as cold and calculating

• Are unconcerned about doing well in social settings, including in relationships, at work or school

• Individuals with psychopathy seem insincere or superficial

Sociopathy also know as Antisocial Personality Disorder or ASPD:

• Symptoms may begin to show in childhood

• Disregard for others feelings, wellbeing and in general

• Lying

• Law breaking

• Impulsive

• Lack regard for their own safety and the safety of others

• ASPD overlaps with Psychopathy

Histrionic Personality Disorder:

People whid histrionic personality disorder often display the following behaviour:

• Dramatic

• Excitable

• Erratic

• Volatile

• Constant need to be the centre of attention

• Flirtatious, seductive, charming, manipulative and impulsive to the point of being constantly inappropriate and making others feel uncomfortable.

• Shifting and shallow emotions

• Uses appearance to draw attention to self

• Impressionistic and vague speech.

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) also known as Emotional Dysregulation Disorder

• Fear of abandonment

• Unstable relationships

• Unclear or shifting self image

• Impulsive, self destructive behaviour

• A tendancy toward self harm

• Chronic feelings of emptiness

• Explosive anger

• Lack of accountability

• Difficulty calming down when upset

• Emotional volatility and inability to self sooth

• Feelings of emptiness

• The way they feel towards others can dramatically change from deep respect and adoration to abhorrence.

Children of toxic parents may struggle with low self esteem, self doubt, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues as a result of their parent's behaviour. It's advisable for individuals who have experienced toxic parenting to seek psychotherapy and support in order to process and heal from their experiences.

Ingrid is a mental health professional (Social Worker) in private practice with special interest in clinical work & Somatic

Therapies. She is an EMDR, Brainspotting, TIR practitioner, Hypnotherapist (CPT), & is registered with SACSSP. To find out more how she can assist & book an appointment, email Ingrid@inneressence.co.za. Sessions are claimable from medical insurance. Please visit her website on http://www.inneressence.co.za.

Self esteem is a person's overall sense of self worth or personal value. Self esteem refers to how much a person likes, respects, and approves of themselves, and can affect their thoughts, emotions and behaviour.

Pros of improving one's self esteem:

1. Increased confidence: Deciding to do something and not second guessing nor judging oneself.

2. Improved relationships: With friends, family, partner or colleagues.

3. Better decision making: Weighing the pros and cons of a decision and taking oneself into account without compromising themselves to please others once deciding on something.

4. Resilience to setbacks: If there's a setback for the individual, the individual won't feel completely defeated but will rather accept the setback and change course of action and move on.

5. Higher motivation: The individual will feel motivated to take action in a decision and will continue pushing forward despite a set back.

Cons of self esteem:

1. Some people are arrogant or overconfident, which could mean that they try to inflate their self esteem because their self esteem is low.

2. Inflated ego: Being dogmatic in their thought process and dismissing someone else's opinion and point of view, thinking they are better at something than they actually are or being dismisive of someone they may perceive are below them.

3. Difficulty accepting criticism or failure

4. Resistance to change or growth

5. Dependence on external validation

Are you struggling with self esteem issues for example, doing minor presentation at work for colleagues or wanting to try a new hobbie and avoiding it because you perhaps fear you're not “good enough”? Let's talk!

Ingrid is a mental health professional (Social Worker) with special interest in clinical work & Somatic Therapies. She is an EMDR, Brainspotting, TIR practitioner, Hypnotherapist, & is registered with SACSSP. To find out more how she can assist & book an appointment, email Ingrid@inneressence.co.za. Sessions are claimable from medical insurance. Please visit her website on http://www.inneressence.co.za.

Entitlement refers to a feeling of deserving certain privileges, benefits, or special treatment based on certain circumstances, such as birthright, status, or social, economic, personal or family achievements.

Entitlement is often used to describe a 'sense of entitlement' that is perceived as excessive or unjustified, leading to behaviours that can be seen as demanding or entitled.

What casues a sense of entitlement?

A sense of entitlment can be caused by a variety of factors including:

Childhood Experiences: Growing up in an invironment where one's needs were consistently met and the person is frequently praised and rewarded, even when very little has in face been achieved, can breed an expectation that this pattern of being catered to will continue forever, making the person feel they are entitled.

Social and Cultural Factors: Society and culture can play a role in shaping entitlement by promoting individualism, consumerism, and the idea that people are entitled to certain privileges or advantages simply as a result of who they or their familes are in their society.

Personality traits: Certain personality traits, such as low emotional intelligence or high levels of narcissism, can contribute to a sense of entitlement.

Perception of unfairness: A perception that one is not being treated fairly or is entitled to more than they are receiving can also foster feelings of entitlement in order to compensate, or over compensate, for the feeling of being left behind.

It's important to understand that a sense of entitlement, especially when the entitlement is not earned, is not a mental health disorder, it can be extremely destructive and have negative long term consequences, especially when a sense of entitlement leads to relationship problems, difficulties in social and professional settings and being sidelined by many in society.

Ingrid is a mental health professional (Social Worker) with special interest in clinical work & Somatic Therapies. She is an EMDR, Brainspotting, TIR practitioner , Hypnotherapist, & is registered with SACSSP. To find out more how she can assist & book an appointment, email Ingrid@inneressence.co.za. Sessions are claimable from medical insurance. Please visit her website on http://www.inneressence.co.za.

CAUSES OF IMPOSTER SYNDROME

Imposter syndrome is a psychological phenomenon in which an individual doubts their own accomplishments, feels like a fraud, and fears being exposed as incompetent. It can affect people in all areas of life, including work, academics, and personal relationships. Some possible causes of imposter syndrome are:

Perfectionism: People who set [unrealistically] high standards for themselves and constantly strive for perfection are more likely to experience imposter syndrome.

Unreaslistic expectations: Sometimes, people may have unrealistic expectations of themselves based on what they think others expect of them, which can lead to feeling like a fraud.

Comparison with others: Comparing oneself to others who appear more accomplished or successful can lead to feelings of inadequacy and imposter syndrome.

Early childhood experiences: Negative experiences or messages received during childhood, such as being told they are not good enough or being overly criticized, can lead to feelings of imposter syndrome.

Lack of positive feedback: When an individual receives little or no positive feedback for their accomplishments, they may feel like they don't deserve the success they have achieved and experience imposter syndrome.

Gender or racial biases: Research suggests that members of certain groups, such as women and people of colour, may be more likely to experience imposter syndrome due to societal biases and stereotypes.

It is important to note that imposter syndrome is a complex issue, and it is often caused by a combination of these factors rather than any single cause.

Ingrid is a mental health professional (Social Worker) with special interest in clinical work & Somatic Therapies. She is an EMDR, Brainspotting, TIR practitioner, Hypnotherapist, and is registered with SACSSP. To find out more how she can assist & book an appointment, email Ingrid@inneressence.co.za. Sessions are claimable from medical insurance. Please visit her website on http://www.inneressence.co.za.

#Anxiety; #hypnotherapy; #Impostersyndrome;#Brainspotting; #painmanagement; #feelinglikeafraud

#psychotherapy;  #psychology; #imposter;#counseling; #depression;#emotionalhealth;; #socialwork

#somatictherapy; #fear; r#mentalhealth; #therapy;#trauma; #TIR; #hypnosis; #hypnotherapy; #Partstherapy; #Egostatetherapy; #Pastliferegression; #anxietyreduction; #selfesteem

Social workers and psychiatrists are both professionals in the healthcare field, but they have very different roles and responsibilities. Social workers typically provide emotional, psychological, practical support and treatment to individuals and families who are facing social, psychological, or health related challenges. Psychiatrists, on the other hand, are medical doctors who specialise in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illness and personality disorders.

While social workers and psychiatrists may work together as part of a larger healthcare team or as part of a multi disciplinary team, social workers are not directly supervised by psychiatrists. However, social workers may collaborate with psychiatrists or other mental health professionals to provide comprehensive care to their clients.

In some clinical settings, social workers and psychiatrists may work under the same organisational structure and have a supervisory relationship. For example, in a mental health clinic or hospital, a social worker may report to a clinical director who is a psychiatrist. However, this would depend on the specific organisational structure and policies of the institution.

It is recommended social workers go for regular supervision with a specifically qualified social wokrer who will guide the social worker should they need guidance with complicated cases. Social workers do not have any obligation to report to any other mental health professional such as psychiatrist or psychologist. Social Works are professionals and specialist in their field of expertise.

Ingrid is a mental health professional (Social Worker) in private practice with special interest in clinical work & Somatic Therapies. She is an EMDR, Brainspotting, TIR practitioner, Hypnotherapist (CPT), & is registered with SACSSP. To find out more how she can assist & book an appointment, email Ingrid@inneressence.co.za. Sessions are claimable from medical insurance. Please visit her website on http://www.inneressence.co.za.

#Socialworkprofession #hypnotherapy #psychology #independent

#Brainspotting #therapy #medicalfield #multidisciplinaryteam

#psychotherapy #counseling #anxiety #PTSD

#emotionalhealth #socialwork #mentalhealth

Hypnotherapy is considered a safe form of treatment when performed by a trained practitioner.

The client is always in charge and all hypnosis is self hypnosis. However, as with any form of therapy, there's a small risk of potential negative side effects. These may include:

1. False memories: False memories are more likely to occur if the practitioner uses techniques that blur the line between fantasy and reality. That's the reason it's so important to check out the hypnotherapists credentials and training.

    

2. Psychiatric disorders: Patients with psychiatric disorders are advised NOT to have hypnotherapy treatment unless recommended and clearned by their psychiatrist. Psychiatric disorders that require psychiatrist clearance inculude ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), Avoidant Personality Disorder, Bi Polar Disorder, BPD (Boarderline Personality Disorder), Conduct Disorder, Mental Retardation, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Paranoid Disorders and Schizophrenia.

    

It's crucial to carefully choose a qualified hypnotherapist who has received reputable training in hypnotherapy, who follows ethical guidelines and is preferably affiliated to a reputable, professional governing body. You should a feel comfortable with the practitoner and feel they are trustworthy. Before starting hypnotherapy, it's a good idea to discuss any concerns you may have with the practitioner to ensure a safe and positive experience.

Ingrid is a mental health professional (Social Worker), Reiki Master, Access Bars & Angel Card practitioner. She has special interest in clinical work and Somatic Therapies. Ingrid is registered with SACSSP and is an EMDR, Brainspottingc and TIR practitioner as well as a qypnotherapist. To find out more how Ingrid can assist and book an appointment, email Ingrid@inneressence.co.za.

Psychotherapeutic sessions are claimable from medical insurance.

For more information, please visit her website on: http://www.inneressence.co.za.

#Anxiety #painreduction #psychotherapy

#stressreduction #Partstherapy #emotionalhealth

#mentalhealth #nailbiting #selfesteem

#Pastliferegression #phobias #hypnotherapy

#hypnosis

Free services are often unappreciated by individuals because people place higher value on things they pay for. With free services people may not feel a sense of commitment to applying what they get, thus not fully appreciating the value.

Free services also often come with limitations which can detract from the user experience and lead to a perception of lower quality. 

When people demand and expect self employed service providers to provide free services, have they given any thought to the needs of the self employed individual or the need for energy transfer that's generally required for transactions to work, be fair and be appreciated. 

There are many excellent organisations which are well staffed with volunteer lay counselors and are thus able to offer basic free counseling to those who cannot afford it. People who require free counseling are also encouraged to contact their local religious organisation for lay counselors who don't charge and who can refer where necessary.

Ingrid is a mental health professional (Social Worker) in private practice with special interest in clinical work & Somatic Therapies. She is an EMDR, Brainspotting, TIR practitioner, Hypnotherapist, & is registered with SACSSP. To find out more how she can assist & book an appointment, email Ingrid@inneressence.co.za. Sessions are claimable from medical insurance. Please visit her  website on http://www.inneressence.co.za.

#counseling #psychology #psychotherapy #mentalhealth

#EMDR #TIR #Hypnotherapy #Brainspotting

#Somatictherapist