Relationship Issues Therapy in Port Coquitlam
A Clinical Definition of Relationship Issues
Relationship issues encompass a wide range of challenges, from navigating breakups to rebuilding confidence after a split. These struggles often stem from communication breakdowns, unmet needs, or unresolved emotional baggage. Left unaddressed, they can impact your self-esteem and ability to form healthy connections.
Read More: How Shame Affects Relationships
Symptoms of Relationship Issues
Emotional: Loneliness, resentment, or fear of rejection.
Behavioural: Avoiding dating, struggling to trust others, or repeating unhealthy patterns.
Cognitive: Overthinking past relationships or doubting your self-worth.
How Relationship Issues Can Show Up in Your Life
Relationship challenges can affect every part of your life, including:
Feeling stuck in the past after a breakup, unable to move forward.
Avoiding new relationships because you’re afraid of getting hurt again.
Struggling to set boundaries or communicate your needs effectively.
Feeling like you’re not “enough” in relationships, leading to self-doubt.
Read More: The Purposeful Path to Couples Therapy
How Breakups & Dating Stress Hijack Your Life
Post-Breakup:
Social Withdrawal: Cancelling plans because you’re ashamed to cry in public or tired of pretending you’re “fine.”
Stuck in the Past: Driving past their favourite coffee shop (hello, Caffe Divano) or replaying old texts, keeping the wound fresh.
Numbing Out: Scrolling TikTok for hours, overworking, or relying on wine to quiet the mental noise.
Dating Again:
Settling for Less: Ignoring red flags because “it’s better than being alone.”
People-Pleasing: Hiding your true needs to be “low maintenance” and “chill.”
Self-Sabotage: Picking emotionally unavailable partners – because subconsciously, it feels safer.
Read More: Empowering Your Loved One’s Journey Through Recovery
Are You Ready to Move Past These Symptoms?
Healthy relationships start with you. At Serenity Counselling, we help you heal from past hurts, build confidence, and create meaningful connections.
Ready to take the first step? Book a free consultation.
Why “Just Get Over It” Hurts (And What Actually Helps)
Well-meaning advice like “Download Tinder!” or “Focus on you!” often misses the mark. Healing isn’t linear, and dating isn’t a Band-Aid for pain. Here’s how therapy creates lasting change:
Breakup Recovery:
Grieve Without Judgment: Honour the loss – even if others think you “should be over it.” No timeline, no shame.
Reclaim Your Story: Break free from narratives like “I’m unlovable” or “All relationships end in pain.”
Boundary Building: Learn to say “no” to exes breadcrumbing you or friends pressuring you to “get back out there.”
Dating with Confidence:
Spot Unhealthy Patterns: Why do you attract the same type? We’ll explore childhood dynamics or past traumas shaping your choices.
Redefine “Chemistry”: Shift from intense sparks (often anxiety) to safe attraction built on respect and shared values.
Communicate Your Needs: Practice expressing desires without fear – whether it’s “I need space” or “I like you.”
Imagine…
Waking up without that pit in your stomach when you remember they’re gone.
Feeling excited to try a new Port Coquitlam hiking trail solo, or with someone who aligns with you.
Trusting your gut when a date says, “I’m not ready for commitment” – and walking away with your head high.
Knowing your worth isn’t tied to your relationship status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if I need relationship therapy?
A: You might need relationship therapy if you keep having the same fights over and over, feel like you can't talk to your partner without it turning into an argument, or if you're always walking on eggshells around them. It's also helpful if you're struggling to get over a breakup, keep dating the same type of person who hurts you, or if you feel like you lose yourself in relationships.
Q: Can therapy help me get over my ex?
A: Yes! Therapy can really help you move on from your ex in a healthy way. Your therapist will help you understand why the breakup still hurts, teach you how to stop obsessing over what went wrong, and help you build confidence so you can be happy on your own. You'll also learn how to avoid making the same mistakes in future relationships.
Q: Why do I keep attracting the wrong person?
A: This happens to a lot of people. Usually it's because of patterns you learned growing up - maybe you saw unhealthy relationships in your family, or you learned to ignore red flags because you want to help or "fix" people. Sometimes it's also because you don't think you deserve better, or you're attracted to what feels familiar (even if it's not good for you). Therapy can help you break these patterns.
Q: How can I learn to set boundaries in relationships?
A: Learning boundaries takes practice. Therapy can teach you how to say no without feeling guilty, how to speak up for what you need, and how to recognize when someone is crossing your boundaries. You'll also learn that setting boundaries doesn't make you mean or selfish - it actually makes your relationships healthier and stronger.
Q: How can I find a therapist who understands relationship challenges women face?
A: Look for therapists who work with women and understand the extra pressure women feel in relationships. It's also helpful to find someone who gets your background and family culture around dating and relationships. Therapists like Zahra Lakhdhir and Suki O'Huallachain create a safe space where you can talk about your relationship struggles without feeling judged.