How significant are relationships? How much do they actually matter?
by Angela Navarro (MSW pending)
As a student here since January, I am getting a good feel for the impact Anderson Dupuis Wellness makes on our community. So far, I have had the opportunity to informally interview staff about their practice and their experiences in private practice.
Most recently, I interviewed Carol Metcalf, the agency's most experienced therapist. For only joining the team 4 months ago, she's quickly become the heart and soul of Anderson Dupuis Wellness!
Her energy is kind, uplifting, inspirational and wise. During my interview with Carol I learned the importance of relationships in 'family of origin' and 'attachment work'.
Carol sees the effects of the relationships you had growing up with your caregivers, and the impact it can have on current relationships and the choices you make. Therefore, 'family of origin' and 'attachment work' can help to understand not only your relationship with others, but also with yourself.
Carol is a generalist and uses many therapies and approaches to assist a client, and has 23 years of experience in counselling which is why I find it so insightful how and why Family of Origin and Attachment work has been so helpful in her practice.
My practicum experience continues to focus on learning more about Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy, and I am grateful for Carol in sharing her knowledge with me and now you too!
I asked Carol to share some helpful prompts for our clients to begin their relationship journey:
What is your attachment style?
Attachment Style Quiz: https://www.attachmentproject.com/attachment-style-quiz/
How does your attachment style affect your relationships?
For more on attachment style influences: https://www.gottman.com/blog/attachment-style-influences-success-relationship/
What are your beliefs about relationships?
See The Holistic Psychologist for great videos on relationship awareness.
Carol's top book recommendation:
How to do the work - Dr. Nichole LePera (otherwise known as The Holistic Psychologist)
What is your emotional awareness?
How do you handle relationship conflict?
Would you say your relationship is healthy?
Carols other must read books can be found at Turning the Tide Book Store:
Furry Logic: A guide to life's little challenges by Jane Seabrook
Great read for kids and teens.
The Comfort Book by Matt Haig
Attached by Amir Levine & Rachel Heller
Minimizing stress, learning about healthy relationships and effective communication is a great place to start in creating healthy relationships in your life.
Relationships do matter and if you find you could use support in this area of your life, feel free to reach out to Anderson Dupuis Wellness.
306.242.8993 or admin@andersondupuis.com