Afleveringen
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What happens when love meets change? In this episode we explore the unique challenges and strengths of queer and gender diverse relationships, especially when one partner is transitioning. Therapist Jani Forest Wyatt joins me to unpack the myths, the moments of growth, and the importance of inclusive and affirming couples therapy.
Jani shares insights from both professional and personal experience, from working with Gottman informed couples therapy to challenging stigma in broader social systems. This oneâs thoughtful, grounding and full of truth bombs that might change how you think about love, identity and connection.
Key takeaways:How Janiâs early experiences shaped her path to supporting transgender clientsWhat Gottman informed therapy looks like when working with queer couplesThe unique stressors queer and trans couples face in therapyMyths about relationships ânot lastingâ after a partner transitionsThe impact of societal judgement on trans individuals and their relationshipsWhy acceptance and emotional safety are key to relationship successHow clinicians can better support trans clients in intimate relationshipsThe power of personal motivation in shaping professional practice
Resources:The Gottman InstituteAustralian Association of Social WorkersRainbow Health AustraliaIf this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. Iâd love to hear your thoughtsâreach out and let me know what stood out to you.
Contact Jani Forest-Wyatt - Learn more about her work:
www.brilliancecounselling.com.au
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Thereâs a lot of advice about what to do to build a strong relationship. But what about the things emotionally healthy couples donât do?
Join me, Marie Vakakis, a therapist, mental health, and relationships educator. In this episode, I explore six common habits that can damage trust, connection, and communicationâand why avoiding them can make a big difference.
Key takeaways:
Sarcasm, eye-rolling, and small put-downs erode trust over time.Name-calling and labelling create emotional distance.Venting to friends instead of addressing issues can reinforce resentment.The silent treatment damages trust and communication.Forgetting milestones isnât about the big gesturesâitâs about showing care.Expecting one person to meet all emotional needs puts too much pressure on a relationship.If any of these sound familiar, youâre not aloneâand itâs never too late to shift unhelpful patterns.
If this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. Iâd love to hear your thoughtsâreach out and let me know what stood out to you!
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Ever caught yourself thinking, "They should just know what I need"? Unspoken expectations are one of the biggest sources of frustration in relationships. When our partners donât automatically meet our needs, it can leave us feeling unheard, unloved, or even resentful. But hereâs the thingâexpecting someone to read your mind rarely works.
Join me, Marie Vakakis, and my guest, psychotherapist Tracy Proud, as we explore why we struggle to express our needs, how childhood experiences shape our relationship patterns, and what happens when we expect our partners to "just know."
Key Takeaways:
Many of our expectations in relationships are shaped by early experiences, often without us realising it.Assuming our partners should "just know" what we need can lead to frustration and resentment.Open, honest communication is essential for expressing needs and strengthening connection.Conflict isnât usually about the surface issueâthereâs often a deeper meaning behind it.Understanding each otherâs perspectives helps break unhealthy patterns and fosters emotional intimacy.Resources:
The Gottman Institute â Research-backed insights into relationship dynamics.Growing Yourself Up by Dr. Jenny Brown â A key resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of themselves and their relationships through the lens of family systems theory.If this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. Iâd love to hear your thoughtsâreach out and let me know what stood out to you!
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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In tough times, joy can feel out of reach. But sometimes, a single shared laugh has the power to lift the weight of the worldâeven in a hospital room, a funeral, or a difficult conversation.
In this special episode, Iâm adding my voice to Podcasthon , a global movement of over 1,600 shows across 47 countries. Instead of just mentioning a charity at the end, I wanted to go deeper and dedicate this episode to the incredible work of Clown Doctorsâspecially trained performers who bring laughter into hospitals to ease anxiety and pain.
Together, weâll explore what laughter does to our bodies and our relationships, why it matters so much in hard moments, and how we can all make space for more playfulness in everyday life.
Episode Summary
This episode is a warm and science-backed reflection on the power of laughterâhow it supports our mental health, deepens connection, and even has physical benefits. I talk about the inspiring work of Clown Doctors in Australia, how humour can be a tool for emotional repair, and why laughter belongs in even the most serious spaces.
Key Takeaways
Laughter triggers feel-good chemicals like endorphins, dopamine, and oxytocin, reducing pain and improving connectionScientific research shows laughter can reduce cortisol (our stress hormone) by up to 32%Humour can strengthen relationships, ease conflict, and build trust, especially with teens and in familiesClown Doctors Australia use laughter as a tool in hospitals to reduce anxiety and support healingLaughter helps us regulate our emotions and reconnect with others, especially in high-stress momentsSharing a laugh can shift the tone in difficult conversations and promote closenessWe can intentionally create more opportunities for laughter in everyday lifePlayful momentsâeven small onesâcan offer relief, connection, and a sense of hopehttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37220157/
https://humourfoundation.org.au/clown-doctors/
https://www.podcasthon.org/
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Ever feel like you and your partner are just co-existing rather than truly connecting? Maybe your conversations revolve around schedules, bills, and logistics, rather than shared experiences and meaningful moments.
Join me, Marie Vakakis, therapist, mental health and relationships educator, as I share why friendship is the foundation of a strong relationship, how couples drift apart over time, and most importantly, how to rebuild connection and intimacy when you feel like housemates rather than partners.
Key Takeaways:Friendship in a relationship creates trust, emotional safety, and longevity.Couples often drift apart due to stress, routine, and lack of prioritisation.Rebuilding connection starts with curiosity, shared activities, and appreciation.Conflict is inevitable, but handling it as teammates rather than opponents strengthens relationships.Small moments of connectionâlike humour, deep conversations, and prioritising funâcan reignite friendship.If your relationship feels more like a routine than a partnership, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to shift from housemates back to best friends.
Resources:
Bids for Connection â Recognising and responding to bids for connection in relationships.The Gottman Institute â Research-based insights on building strong relationships.If this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. Iâd love to hear your thoughtsâreach out and let me know what stood out to you!
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Couples therapy isnât just about fixing relationship problemsâit can also play a huge role in improving mental health. Many people think of therapy as a last resort when things are falling apart, but research shows that relationship support can also help with anxiety, depression, trauma, and emotional regulation.
Iâm joined by Trish Purnell-Webb, a clinical psychologist, certified Gottman therapist, and trainer for the Gottman Institute, to discuss how couples therapy strengthens connection and supports mental well-being.
Key TakeawaysCouples therapy can lead to better mental health outcomes than individual therapy in some cases.A strong, supportive relationship can help regulate emotions and ease stress.Many people with mental health struggles feel isolatedâeven in relationships.Learning skills like emotional attunement and validation can reduce distress.Therapy teaches couples how to navigate challenges together rather than suffering alone.
ResourcesThe Gottman Instituteâs research on couples therapy effectiveness â www.gottman.comEmotionally Focused Therapy by Sue JohnsonIf this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. Iâd love to hear your thoughtsâreach out and let me know what stood out to you.
Contact Trish Purnell-Webb:
www.trishpurnell-webb.com.au
www.relationshipinstitute.com.au
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Ever had a small disagreement spiral into a huge argument? Maybe it started with an eye-roll, a forgotten text, or a messy kitchen bench. Suddenly, itâs not about the dishesâitâs about feeling unheard, unappreciated, or disconnected.
Join me, Marie Vakakis, a therapist, mental health, and relationships educator. In this episode, I unpack why small fights often mask deeper issues, how to tell the difference between healthy and unhealthy conflict, and ways to handle disagreements that strengthen connection rather than push you apart.
Key takeaways:Conflict isnât just about the argumentâitâs about the deeper needs and emotions underneath it.Small issues left unresolved can build into resentment and disconnection.Healthy conflict strengthens trust, while unhealthy conflict creates emotional distance.The Four Horsemenâcriticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewallingâcan erode trust if left unchecked.Repairing after a disagreement is more important than avoiding conflict altogether.The way we handle fights can bring us closer or push us further apart.If youâre interested in how to approach conflict in a way that builds connection rather than breaks it down, check out Episode 52 â Itâs Not About the FightâItâs How You Fight.
Resources:The Gottman Institute â www.gottman.comIf this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. Iâd love to hear your thoughtsâreach out and let me know what stood out to you!
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Many couples only seek therapy when their relationship is already in serious trouble. But by the time they reach out, years of unresolved issues, built-up resentment, and unhealthy patterns can make it harder to repair their connection. So, what happens when couples wait too long to get support, and why is early intervention so important?
Join me Marie Vakakis, a therapist, and mental health and relationships educator and Michelle Janssen as we discuss why couples therapy isnât just for relationships in crisis, how waiting too long can make healing more difficult, and how seeking support earlier can lead to better outcomes.
Key takeawaysCouples often wait an average of six years before seeking therapy, allowing issues to worsen.Therapy is most effective when couples seek support before problems escalate.Unresolved conflicts, resentment, and miscommunication can become deeply ingrained over time.Many couples donât seek therapy due to stigma, fear, or the belief that things will improve on their own.Small issues left unaddressed can turn into significant relationship challenges.The earlier couples get support, the more tools they have to strengthen their relationship.Therapy isnât about fixing a broken relationshipâitâs about learning better ways to connect and communicate.
ResourcesThe Gottman Instituteâs research on couples therapy effectiveness â www.gottman.com Four horseman Art and science of love workshopsIf this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. Iâd love to hear your thoughtsâreach out and let me know what stood out to you.
Contact Michelle Janssen
https://www.brisbanecouplescounselling.com/
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Why do we keep having the same fight?
It can feel frustrating when the same arguments keep coming up. But conflict is not the problem. It is how we handle it that makes the difference. Research shows that most relationship conflicts are ongoing, yet avoiding them only builds resentment. The good news is that conflict, when managed well, can actually strengthen trust and connection.
I am Marie Vakakis, a therapist, mental health and relationships educator. In this episode, I explore why conflict is normal, how small miscommunications can turn into bigger issues, and how curiosity, empathy and repair can help you navigate difficult conversations with your partner.
Key takeawaysConflict is a normal and healthy part of relationshipsAvoiding difficult conversations does not make issues disappearSeventy percent of relationship conflicts are ongoing and unsolvableHow you approach conflict shapes trust and connectionRepairing after a disagreement is more important than never fightingWords, tone and active listening all play a role in resolving tensionSome people argue to be right, others to connect or feel in controlAsking questions with curiosity can lead to deeper understanding
Resourcesâą Gottman Institute research on conflict in relationships â www.gottman.com
If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. I would love to hear your thoughts, so reach out and let me know what stood out to you.
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Have you ever wondered when the right time is to try couples therapy? Or if you even need a major issue to start? Many people hesitate to seek support for their relationship, often waiting years before getting helpâsometimes even separating without exploring their options.
Today, weâre tackling the most common questions about couples therapy, from how to know if itâs right for you to what actually happens in a session. Joining me is Anne, my practice manager and the person who keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes. Anne has gathered real questions from clients, friends, and people curious about what happens in couples therapy.
Weâre covering everything from whether you need to forgive past mistakes to what to do if your partner refuses to come. And yes, we even get into the weirdest things couples have fought about in my sessions (spoiler: toilet paper placement can be a deal-breaker for some!).
Key Takeaways:
âą When to seek therapy: You donât need a crisis to startâtherapy can help at any stage, including as a preventative step.
âą How couples therapy works: From assessments to interventions, we break down what actually happens in a session.
âą What if my partner wonât go? Tips for approaching the conversation and increasing the chances theyâll say yes.
âą Affairs, open relationships, and trust: Can couples therapy help rebuild after betrayal or navigate non-traditional relationships?
âą The Gottman Method: Why I use it, and how science-backed assessments help guide therapy.
âą Traditional vs. Marathon Therapy: The difference between weekly sessions and intensive two- or three-day programs.
âą How long does it take? Realistic expectations for therapy length and why a âquick fixâ isnât always the best approach.
âą Ground rules for therapy: Whatâs acceptable (venting frustrations) and whatâs not (secret-keeping, name-calling).
âą Handling conflict: How understanding your partnerâs background can completely shift a heated debate.
âą Secrets in relationships: Whatâs okay to keep private and what could be damaging to your connection.
Resources Mentioned:
đ The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work â John & Julie Gottman
đ Eight Dates: Essential Conversations for a Lifetime of Love â John & Julie Gottman
đ Hold Me Tight â Sue Johnson
If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who might find it helpful. And if you have a question about couples therapy that we didnât answer, send it inâwe might tackle it in a future episode!
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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Have you ever wondered why grief feels so isolating?
Many people expect grief to follow a straight path, something to "move on" from after a set amount of time. The reality is far more complex. In this episode, I sit down with psychologist and grief researcher Liam Spicer to explore what grief is, the myths that surround it, and how we can better support ourselves and others through loss.
Grief is a universal human experience, yet so many of us struggle to talk about it openly. In this conversation, Liam shares insights from his work and personal experiences, breaking down common misconceptions about grief and bereavement. We discuss how grief extends beyond the loss of a loved one, why thereâs no "right way" to grieve, and the role of connection in healing.
Key TakeawaysGrief isnât something you "get over"âit changes shape, but it doesnât disappear.Thereâs no single timeline or correct way to grieve. Everyoneâs experience is unique.Grief isnât just about deathâit can be triggered by life changes, lost opportunities, or even a shift in identity.Societal expectations can make grief harder by pressuring people to âmove onâ too quickly.Supporting someone who is grieving doesnât mean having the perfect wordsâsometimes, just showing up is enough.Guilt about feeling happy again is common, but it doesnât mean youâve forgotten your loved one.There are ways to maintain a connection with someone youâve lost, which can help with healing.
ResourcesAustralian Centre for Grief and Bereavement â Fact sheets, resources, and support for grief.The Grieving Brain by Mary-Frances O'Connor â A science-based look at how grief affects us.It's OK That You're Not OK by Megan Devine â A compassionate guide for navigating grief.Liam Spicerâs Website- Find out more about Liam's work and research Liamâs Instagram https://www.instagram.com/liamspicer_/ [email protected]Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
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How Past Experiences Shape Our Lives
Why do certain situations trigger such strong emotions? Katheryn Eberly, a mental health social worker and family therapist, joins me to explore how early experiences shape our beliefs, why past wounds still affect us, and how we can start to shift unhelpful patterns.
Key TakeawaysTrauma affects how we see ourselves and respond to stress."Big T" trauma stems from major events, while "little t" trauma comes from repeated distressing experiences.Core beliefs like "I'm not good enough" often develop in childhood.Emotional reactions in daily life can signal deeper unresolved experiences.Recognising patterns can help shift automatic responses.
Resources MentionedWhat Happened to You? â Bruce Perry & Oprah WinfreySelf-compassion work by Kristin NeffPrevious episode: âIâm Not Good EnoughConnect with Kathryn
https://restoringfamilies.com.au/
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
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Have you ever wondered if your goals truly reflect whatâs most important to you? In this episode, clinical psychologist Patch Callahan joins me to break down the difference between values and goals and why living by your values is the key to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
We explore how to uncover your core values, navigate challenges in defining them, and integrate them into your everyday decisions. Whether youâre reevaluating your priorities for the new year or seeking deeper alignment in life, this episode offers practical insights to help you connect with what truly matters.
Episode SummaryPatch Callahan shares the transformative power of values, particularly in the context of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). We discuss how values differ from goals, why they matter, and actionable steps to define and live by them. Tune in to discover how aligning your life with your values can lead to greater purpose and authenticity.
Key Takeaways
âą Values vs. Goals: Values guide your actions and choices, providing meaning, while goals are specific targets or achievements.
âą Why Values Matter: Living according to your values fosters authenticity and a sense of purpose.
Defining Your Values:
âą Reflect on key life domains: family, relationships, work, health, and leisure.
âą Identify whatâs deeply important to you within each domain.
âą Narrow your focus to 5â6 core values that resonate most.
âą Challenges in Identifying Values: Overcoming confusion or uncertainty requires reflection, experimentation, and sometimes professional support.
âą Practical Tips for Value-Based Living:
âą Use discomfort as a guideâit often points to what matters most.
âą Prioritise decisions that align with your core principles.
âą Build psychological flexibility to stay committed to your values even when faced with challenges.
Resources
Bullseye Activity: A practical tool for clarifying and connecting with your values. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FOEsnX87HoLearn More About Patch Callahan: Patchâs Bio and ServicesIf this episode resonated with you, share it with someone reflecting on their priorities this year! Donât forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join the conversation about living with purpose.
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
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Have you ever found yourself questioning your drinking habits or wondering why alcohol feels so deeply woven into our social lives? This episode will inspire you to take a closer look at addiction, coping strategies, and the pressures around drinking.
In this episode, I sit down with psychologist Tara Hurster, an expert in addiction and substance use, to challenge the myths surrounding addiction and explore how we can make healthier, more intentional choices. From practical tools like the HALT method to navigating sober dating, Tara offers invaluable insights for anyone looking to change their relationship with alcohol.
What We Cover in This Episode
Understanding Addiction Beyond the Myths
Addiction isnât about weakness or moral failure; itâs a learned way to cope with lifeâs stresses and traumas.
Tara shares her journey from supporting peers in high school to becoming an addiction specialist.
Addiction Isnât a Disease
Addiction is not a disease or a moral failingâitâs a behavioural response to stress and emotions.
Tara recounts her experiences working in an inpatient psychiatric hospital and how they shaped her views.
Practical Strategies for Managing Substance Use
The HALT method: Are you Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired? Tara adds âHydratedâ and âHealthâ to the mix for a more holistic approach.
Tara explains how checking in with these needs can prevent mindless behaviours, like reaching for a drink.
Navigating Social Pressures Around Alcohol
Simple strategies for declining a drink, from âIâm not drinking todayâ to a white lie like âIâm on antibiotics.â
Setting boundaries is okay and can help you maintain your goals.
Sober Dating: Building Authentic Connections
Tips for enjoying dates without alcohol and focusing on meaningful connections.
Tara introduces the FRIES acronym: Freely Given, Reversible, Informed, Enthusiastic, and Specific, to help with decision-making in dating and intimacy.
The Sober Curious Movement
A growing trend encouraging people to question their relationship with alcohol. Younger generations are leading the charge by embracing life without booze.
Resources Mentioned
Alcohol and Drug Information Service: Call 1800 250 015 or visit ADIS Website
Connect with Tara Hurster:
Website: Tara Clinic
Instagram: @TaraHurster
Enjoyed the Episode?
If this episode resonated with you, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform. It helps others discover the show and keeps me inspired to create more conversations like this. Donât forget to subscribe and share this episode with someone who might benefit!
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Holidays are meant to be magical, but letâs be honest â they can also be a whirlwind of stress, unmet expectations, and arguments over things like... ham on napkins. Ever found yourself mid-fight during the holiday season, wondering, âWhat are we even fighting about?â This episode is for you.
As a therapist, I see this all the time in my sessions: couples bickering over seemingly small things that often hold deeper meaning. Today, Iâm unpacking whatâs really behind those seemingly silly holiday fights and sharing practical ways to handle them with curiosity and connection.
Weâll explore why the conflict isnât really about the napkins or the ham, but what they represent â memories, traditions, or unmet needs. So, whether youâre dealing with family chaos, mismatched holiday vibes, or just the general holiday rush, Iâve got you covered.
Key Takeaways:Why holiday fights are rarely about what they seem â and how to figure out whatâs really going on.The importance of understanding your partnerâs holiday traditions and what they mean to them.How to approach disagreements with curiosity rather than conflict.Tips for validating your partnerâs feelings (even if you donât agree!).Why compromise is healthy â and how to do it without dismissing each otherâs needs.How to start meaningful conversations about celebrating holidays together.The power of acknowledging sadness when things donât go as planned.
Resources:Well, Hello Anxiety Podcast: My conversation with Jodi Richardson where we chatted about mismatched holiday vibes, setting boundaries, and handling family chaos. Listen here.Christmas holiday boundaries blog â Additional tips and articles on holiday stress and relationship dynamics.If youâve enjoyed this episode, donât forget to leave a review and subscribe for more conversations on navigating life and relationships. Letâs keep the conversation going on social media â Iâd love to hear your thoughts!
Ready to hit reset on your relationship? Join me for a workshop packed with practical tools and guided prompts to help you and your partner communicate better, tackle tricky topics like money, and create a clear plan for the year ahead.
-- JOIN ME LIVE--
https://marievakakis.com.au/events/
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Does the holiday season leave you feeling stressed and overcommitted? With endless parties, gift exchanges, and family gatherings, itâs easy to say yes to everything and forget about your own needs. In this episode, Iâm sharing how to set boundaries that protect your energy, time, and budget, so you can truly enjoy the festive season without the burnout.
Iâll explore why setting boundaries matters and how to communicate them clearly, even when itâs hard. From managing tricky family dynamics to sticking to a budget for gifts and dinners, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help you navigate the holidays with more ease and confidence.
In this episode I discuss How to recognise your limits and avoid overcommitting during the holidaysWhy boundaries are about your actions, not controlling othersTips for setting clear financial limits without guiltHow to manage social and family pressures with calm and confidenceThe power of saying no and following through on your boundariesPractical ways to offer alternatives that work better for youConnected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
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If youâve ever wondered why your teen seems on edge or overwhelmed, youâre not alone. Anxiety in teens can feel daunting to understand and even harder to navigate. In this episode, I break down the basics of anxiety, what might be going on with your teen, and how you can truly support them. Whether itâs about recognising the signs, fostering empathy, or knowing when to seek help, this episode is packed with practical advice you can put into action today.
Key Takeaways:Understanding the difference between stress and anxiety: Stress is often tied to specific events and can dissipate once the issue resolves. Anxiety, however, can linger and feel harder to manage.Why teens are more prone to anxiety: During adolescence, critical brain development and life pressures make teens more vulnerable to intense emotions.Common triggers for anxiety in teens: These can include schoolwork, social pressures, family dynamics, and even global issues like climate change.The importance of empathy: Listening without dismissing your teenâs feelings is key. Simple phrases like, "That sounds really hard," can go a long way in showing support.Helping teens build resilience: Letting them face challenges and problem-solve on their own, while ensuring their safety, can foster confidence.Recognising when professional help is needed: If anxiety disrupts daily life, it might be time to seek support from a mental health professional.Normalising therapy and self-care: Sharing your own experiences with therapy or coping strategies can help teens feel comfortable seeking help.
Resources:Connected Teens Course: Learn how to strengthen your connection with your teen while respecting their individuality. Book Recommendation: Hold On to Your Kids by Gordon Neufeld and Gabor MatĂ© â A helpful guide on supporting your teenâs emotional development.Related Episode: Why Does My Teen Feel Overwhelmed and What Can I Do to Support Themâ Discover how to identify and address overwhelm in teens.Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
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Ever wondered why your teen sometimes seems to be on an emotional rollercoaster? In this episode, I tackle a question thatâs close to home for many parents: Why does my teen seem so moody? Instead of brushing it off as "just a phase," I explore whatâs really going on for teens emotionally and mentally, from hormonal changes to the social pressures they face every day. If you've ever been met with a slammed door or an eye-roll, this episode will help you understand the bigger picture and respond in ways that support them.
I share insights into brain development, social dynamics, and how to create a supportive environment at home. This is all about building connections and helping teens feel understood rather than dismissed.
Key Takeaways:
Understanding that teen moodiness isnât just âacting outâ; itâs a response to many factors, including brain development and social pressures.The impact of fluctuating hormones on emotions and behaviour, and how this is a natural part of growing up.Recognising signs of overwhelm in teens and the importance of timing and tone when discussing sensitive topics.Why criticism or constant reminders can feel like ânaggingâ to teens and might lead to defensiveness.Balancing giving teens independence while staying available for support and guidance.The importance of modelling emotional regulation as a parent, as teens learn by observing how we handle our emotions.Simple, actionable steps to connect with your teen without pushing them away, like avoiding overloading them with questions.Ways to validate your teenâs feelings, even if you may not agree, and how to create a safe space for them to express themselves.Resources:
Connected Teensâą Course â My on-demand course designed to help parents connect with their teens.Episode on âWhy Wonât My Teen Talk to Me After School?â â For more tips on how to handle after-school conversations.If you have a question youâd like me to answer in a future episode, reach out via the link in the show notes. Iâd love to hear from you and explore the topics that matter most to you and your family.
The Get Ready for Therapy Journal Here https://thetherapyhub.com.au/the-journal-pdf/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
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Ever wondered why your teenager suddenly seems to prefer hanging out with friends over family dinners or weekend outings? In this episode, Iâll be talking through some of the key reasons teens begin to pull away from family time, focusing on the natural shifts in social priorities and independence that come with adolescence. Itâs not about rejection, though it might feel that way; itâs a complex stage of growing up where friendships often take centre stage. Iâll explore why this happens and share some tips on how you can maintain a meaningful connection without pushing them away.
So, if youâre finding family time with your teen to be a bit of a tug-of-war, this episode is for you!
Key TakeawaysTeens often prioritise friendships over family as they develop their own identities and social lives.FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) plays a big role, making them want to stay closely connected with their friends.The shift towards friendships is part of natural differentiationâteens exploring their sense of self outside of the family.Parents can feel rejected, but understanding this phase helps in responding supportively.Handling feelings of rejection with awareness can prevent tension and create a more positive environment for connection.Encouraging shorter, meaningful family interactions can help without making them feel forced.Finding a balance between family traditions and their developing independence allows teens space to grow while staying connected.Recognise and respect their need for autonomy; focus on quality time rather than quantity.Episodes to link to
https://marievakakis.com.au/parents-feeling-rejected-by-their-teens/
Connected teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
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Ever feel like your teen is constantly overwhelmed and stressed, but you're unsure how to help without making things worse? In this episode, Iâm sharing practical ways you can support your teen when life feels like itâs coming at them too fast. Whether it's school pressures, social media, or the daily juggle of activities, teens today face a lot. Iâll help you understand why they might be feeling so overwhelmed and how you, as a parent, can be there for them in the best way possible.
As a therapist and mental health educator, Iâve seen how parents can unintentionally add to the pressure. But it doesnât have to be this way! Iâll explain why listening is often more powerful than offering solutions and share tips on connecting with your teen when theyâre struggling.
Key Takeaways:Why teens feel overwhelmed: Reflect on the factors contributing to your teenâs stress, from social pressures to academic expectations.The difference between stress and overwhelm: Understand how stress can motivate, but when it turns into overwhelm, itâs like drinking from a fire hose.Stop fixing, start listening: Discover how to hold space for your teen and let them feel heard without jumping into problem-solving mode.Use emotion coaching to connect: Learn how to validate your teenâs feelings and open up the conversation in a supportive way.Give them space to decompress: Understand why bombarding them with questions or advice right away isnât helpful.Collaborate on solutions when theyâre ready: Help your teen problem-solve once they feel seen and heard, not before.
Resources:Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown: A fantastic resource on stress and overwhelm.Link to stress cycle video: Check out my video on how to manage the stress cycle.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bFGz9ObyW4JOIN the Connected Teens Course https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
ï»żConnect with Marie
https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
https://marievakakis.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
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