We’re all whores. We prostitute ourselves everyday. Yes, this vulgar reality hits hard. We compromise on what we want, what we need, and what we believe in. We (most often unconsciously) prostitute ourselves emotionally. We sacrifice our emotional well being as a trade off for some other outcome. Usually the other outcome is the fulfillment of another’s ideas for us and oftentimes money is involved. What does […]
Behaviors
Interpreting Your Dreams
By: Suzanne Maiden Our dreams provide us with profound information – pregnant with meaning, dreams illuminate our emotional health. Dream data suggest what needs psychological excavation, examination, and healing. When a client needs access to difficult material they consciously resist dredging up, we explore their dreams. As Hall (1984) said, “The dream is to the psyche as an x-ray is to the body.” Oftentimes, new clients minimize and poo-poo […]
Same Sex Love
By: Suzanne Maiden As a psychotherapist, I see many young people struggle with their sexual orientation. Many confide feelings of both bi-sexuality or straight homosexuality. And, the sacred space in which they divulge their secret is the first they have verbalized their inner truth. I have the privilege of being the first person with whom […]
Abusive Father
Dear Zanny,Hi, this is Annie from California. I have a very abusive relationship with my father. We usually don’t see middle ground on many things, but the worst thing is that whenever I disagree and provoke his temper, he explodes and abuses me either verbally and/or physically. My dad has called me hopeless, futile, pathetic, […]
Longing for the Other
By: Suzanne Maiden Sometimes we go through the motions of life and all seems well. We can honestly say we experience relative happiness, contented relationships, and what many would identify as “a good life.” What happens, then when something comes along and tips the proverbial apple cart? What now must be metaphorically picked up, examined, […]
Sexual Intimacy ~ Spiritual Ecstasy
By: Suzanne Maiden The sublime power of sex; heightened sensual sensations, aroused emotions, the divine expression of love, the final crescendo culminating in physical ecstasy is a true spiritual gift. I recently had a lengthy conversation with a young person regarding the distinction between what we termed ‘physical maintenance’ vs. making love. I was so […]