Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation in which one person makes another person doubt their perceptions, experiences, memories, or understanding of events that happened. It is a subtle and insidious form of abuse that can have a devastating impact on the victim's mental and emotional health.

Gaslighting can occur in any type of relationship, but it is particularly common in romantic relationships. This is because romantic partners often have a high level of trust and intimacy, which makes them more vulnerable to manipulation.

Gaslighters typically use a variety of tactics to achieve their goals, including:

• Denying or minimizing events: A gaslighter might deny that something ever happened, even if the victim has clear evidence that it did. They might also minimize the significance of the event, or try to convince the victim that they are overreacting.
• Shifting the blame: Gaslighters often turn the tables on their victims, making them feel responsible for the gaslighter's own bad behavior. They might also blame the victim for being too sensitive or for misinterpreting their intentions.
• Isolating the victim: Gaslighters may try to isolate their victims from friends and family, making it more difficult for them to get support and validation. They might also discourage the victim from talking to others about what is happening in the relationship.
• Making the victim feel crazy: Gaslighters may try to convince their victims that they are losing their mind, or that they are simply too emotional or unstable to understand reality. They might also make the victim feel like they are the ones who are causing the problems in the relationship.

Over time, gaslighting can have a devastating impact on the victim's self-esteem, confidence, and trust in others. They may start to doubt their own sanity and reality, and they may become withdrawn and isolated. Gaslighting can also lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems.

If you are in a relationship with someone who is gaslighting you, it is important to seek help from a qualified psychotherapist. A therapist can help you to understand what is happening to you, and they can provide you with support and guidance as you work to recover from the effects of gaslighting.

Here are some tips for coping with gaslighting in a relationship:

• Trust your instincts: If you have a gut feeling that something is wrong, it probably is. Don't let your partner convince you otherwise.
• Talk to someone you trust: It is important to have someone you can talk to about what is happening in your relationship. This could be a friend, family member, therapist, or support group.
• Keep a record of events: If your partner is gaslighting you, it can be helpful to keep a record of what is happening. This could include writing down dates, times, and details of specific events.
• Set boundaries: It is important to set boundaries with your partner, and to stick to them. For example, you might decide that you are no longer willing to engage in conversations about certain topics.
• Consider leaving the relationship: If your partner is gaslighting you, it is important to consider leaving the relationship. Gaslighting is a form of abuse, and it is not likely to change unless your partner is willing to seek professional help.

If you are thinking about leaving a gaslighting relationship, it is important to have a safety plan in place. This should include having a place to go where you will be safe, and having a way to contact people who can support you.
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It is also important to remember that you are not alone. If gaslighting is a problem in your relationship, therapy can help. Contact Scott at (303) 817-8369 or email at [email protected] for a free phone or video evaluation.

As children, we learn about relationships by watching our parents interact with each other. We see how they communicate, how they resolve conflict, and how they show love and affection. These observations become our template for how we expect relationships to work.

If our parents had a healthy, loving relationship, we are more likely to have secure attachment styles as adults. This means that we feel confident in our ability to form close relationships and that we expect to be loved and supported by our partners.

However, if our parents had an unhealthy or conflictual relationship, we are more likely to have insecure attachment styles. This means that we may have difficulty trusting others, may be afraid of abandonment, or may have a hard time expressing our emotions in relationships.

​Of course, our relationship style is not determined solely by our parents. Our own experiences and personality also play a role. However, our parents' relationship style can have a significant impact on how we approach our own relationships as adults.

Generational Influence
The generational influence on relationship styles is a complex topic. There are many factors that can contribute to how we learn about relationships from our parents, including their own attachment styles, their cultural background, and the historical context in which they grew up.

For example, people who grew up in families where there was a lot of conflict may be more likely to have insecure attachment styles. This is because they may have learned that relationships are inherently unstable and that conflict is inevitable.

On the other hand, people who grew up in families where there was a lot of love and support may be more likely to have secure attachment styles. This is because they may have learned that relationships are a source of comfort and security.

It is also important to note that the generational influence on relationship styles can be passed down from generation to generation. This is because children learn about relationships from their parents, who learned about relationships from their parents, and so on.

As a result, it is not uncommon for people to find themselves repeating the same relationship patterns that their parents did. This can be a challenge to break, but it is possible with awareness and effort.
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Here are some specific ways that the relationship style we learned from our parents can influence us in our adult relationships:

• How we communicate. If our parents communicated in a healthy way, we are more likely to be able to communicate effectively in our own relationships. We will be able to express our needs and feelings in a clear and direct way, and we will be able to listen to our partners' needs and feelings with empathy.
• How we resolve conflict. If our parents were able to resolve conflict in a healthy way, we are more likely to be able to do the same in our own relationships. We will be able to see conflict as an opportunity to grow and learn, and we will be able to communicate our needs and feelings in a way that is respectful and constructive.
• How we show love and affection. If our parents showed love and affection in a healthy way, we are more likely to be able to do the same in our own relationships. We will be able to express our love and appreciation for our partners in a way that is both genuine and comfortable.

If you are concerned that the relationship style you learned from your parents is negatively impacting your own relationships, there are things you can do to change. You can talk to a therapist or counselor who can help you to understand your attachment style and develop healthier relationship patterns. You can also learn about healthy communication and conflict resolution skills.

Remember, you are not doomed to repeat the relationship patterns you learned from your parents. With awareness and effort, you can create healthy, fulfilling relationships in your own life.

Here are some additional tips for breaking the cycle of unhealthy relationship patterns:

• Become aware of your triggers. What are the things that tend to make you feel insecure or anxious in relationships? Once you know your triggers, you can start to develop strategies for coping with them in a healthy way.
• Challenge your negative beliefs about relationships. If you have negative beliefs about relationships, such as "I'm not good enough" or "I'm always going to be hurt," challenge these beliefs with evidence to the contrary.
• Practice healthy communication and conflict resolution skills. There are many resources available to help you learn these skills. Talk to a therapist, counselor, or read books or articles on the topic.
• Be patient with yourself. It takes time and effort to change old patterns. Don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately. Just keep practicing and you will eventually break the cycle.
  
  

If you need help with your relationship, contact Scott Olds at (303) 817-8369 or [email protected].

In today's fast-paced world, where hookup culture often takes center stage, transitioning from casual encounters to meaningful, lasting relationships can feel like a daunting task. The journey might require a shift in mindset, a reevaluation of priorities, and a willingness to explore emotional depths. If you're seeking guidance on how to make this transition, you're not alone. Many individuals are seeking more meaningful connections, and with the right approach, you can find the fulfilling relationship you desire. Here's a guide to help you navigate this transition:

1. Self-Reflection and Clarity: Before embarking on the journey to a meaningful relationship, take time to reflect on what you truly want. What are your values, goals, and aspirations? What qualities do you seek in a partner? By gaining clarity about your own desires, you can better recognize a compatible partner when you encounter one.
2. Open Communication: In hookup culture, communication often revolves around the logistics of the encounter. Transitioning to a meaningful relationship requires a shift toward open and honest conversations about emotions, expectations, and long-term goals. Practice expressing your feelings and actively listening to your partner. Effective communication is the foundation of any successful relationship.
3. Slow and Steady: Meaningful relationships are built over time. Instead of rushing into physical intimacy, focus on building emotional intimacy first. Spend quality time together engaging in activities that allow you to connect on a deeper level. This gradual approach helps establish a strong emotional bond.
4. Shared Activities and Interests: Explore activities you both enjoy. Shared hobbies and interests can bring you closer and create opportunities for meaningful interactions. Whether it's hiking, cooking, art, or music, engaging in activities together fosters a sense of togetherness and shared experiences.
5. Vulnerability and Authenticity: To transition from hookup culture to a meaningful relationship, it's crucial to be vulnerable and authentic. Share your thoughts, fears, and vulnerabilities with your partner. This openness encourages reciprocity and helps establish trust.
6. Mindfulness and Presence: In a fast-paced world, practicing mindfulness can enhance your ability to connect deeply with your partner. Put away distractions and be present in the moment. Listen actively, observe body language, and appreciate the nuances of your interactions.
7. Mutual Respect: Respect is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship. Transitioning to a meaningful connection involves treating your partner with kindness, consideration, and empathy. Recognize and appreciate their individuality.
8. Emotional Intelligence: Understanding your own emotions and being attuned to your partner's feelings is a hallmark of a meaningful relationship. Emotional intelligence allows you to navigate challenges and conflicts with empathy and understanding.
9. Addressing Fear of Commitment: Transitioning from hookup culture may bring up a fear of commitment. It's essential to address these fears and explore their origins. A qualified psychotherapist can assist in unpacking these emotions and providing strategies to overcome them.
10. Seeking Professional Guidance: Transitioning from hookup culture to a meaningful relationship is a journey that can benefit from professional guidance. A psychotherapist can provide insights, tools, and strategies to navigate this transition, offering a safe space to explore your emotions and thought patterns.

In conclusion, transitioning from hookup culture to a meaningful relationship requires a deliberate and mindful approach. It's about moving beyond surface-level connections and embracing vulnerability, emotional intimacy, and open communication. Remember that this journey is unique to you, and there's no fixed timeline. Be patient with yourself and your partner as you both navigate this transformation. With the right mindset, effort, and support, you can create a meaningful and fulfilling relationship that goes beyond the confines of hookup culture.

For help transitioning from hookup culture to a meaningful relationship, contact Scott Olds at (303) 817-8369 or email at [email protected]

As a psychotherapist and in my personal life, I have seen firsthand the impact that shame can have on caregivers for the chronically ill. Shame can be a powerful emotion that can lead to feelings of isolation, inadequacy, and worthlessness. It can also make it difficult to ask for help or support.

There are a number of reasons why caregivers may feel shame. They may feel ashamed of the illness itself, or of the way it has changed their lives. They may feel ashamed of their own limitations, or of the things they have to do to care for their loved one. They may also feel ashamed of the financial or emotional burden that the illness has placed on their family.

Shame can have a significant impact on a caregiver's mental and physical health. It can lead to anxiety, depression, stress, and burnout. It can also make it difficult to cope with the demands of caregiving.

If you are a caregiver for a chronically ill loved one, it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are many other caregivers who are going through the same thing. You are not to blame for the illness, and you are not inadequate. You are doing the best you can in a difficult situation.

If you are struggling with feelings of shame, there are things you can do to cope. First, it is important to talk to someone about how you are feeling. A therapist can help you to understand your shame and develop coping mechanisms. You can also find support groups for caregivers, where you can connect with others who understand what you are going through.

It is also important to remember to take care of yourself. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and exercise regularly. You should also make time for activities that you enjoy. Taking care of yourself will help you to be better able to cope with the demands of caregiving.

If you are struggling with feelings of shame, please know that you are not alone. There is help available. Please reach out for support.

Here are some additional resources for caregivers who are struggling with shame:

• The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers a caregiver support group program called "Family-to-Family." This program provides education, support, and resources to family members and friends of people with mental illness.
• The National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA) offers a variety of resources for caregivers, including a website, a helpline, and a bimonthly magazine.
• The Caregiver Action Network (CAN) offers a variety of resources for caregivers, including a website, a helpline, and a toolkit for managing stress.

Please remember that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you cope with the challenges of caregiving.
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If you are struggling as a caregiver and need help, contact Scott at (303) 817-8369 or [email protected].

If you are a highly sensitive person (HSP) in an abusive relationship, you may feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and even hopeless. You may be wondering if you are crazy or if you are just too sensitive.
The truth is, you are not crazy. You are simply a highly sensitive person who has gotten into a relationship with an abuser. Abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, verbal, and financial abuse.
As an HSP, you are naturally empathic and caring. You are drawn to people who are in need, and you want to help them. This makes you a prime target for an abuser. Abusers are often very good at manipulating and controlling others, and they can easily take advantage of your sensitivity.
If you are in an abusive relationship, you may be experiencing some of the following:

• You feel like you are walking on eggshells. You never know what will set off the abuser, and you are constantly afraid of doing or saying the wrong thing.
  
• You feel like you are never good enough. The abuser is constantly criticizing you, and they make you feel like you are never measuring up.
  
• You feel isolated and alone. The abuser may isolate you from your friends and family, and they may make you feel like you are the only person who understands them.
  
• You feel exhausted and drained. Dealing with an abuser is emotionally and mentally exhausting. You may feel like you are constantly giving and giving, and you never get anything in return.
  

If you are experiencing any of these things, it is important to know that you are not alone. There are many other HSPs who have been in similar situations. You are not crazy, and you are not to blame.
If you are ready to get out of your abusive relationship, there are a few things you can do:

• Seek professional help. A therapist can help you understand your relationship with the abuser, and they can teach you how to set boundaries and protect yourself.
  
• Build a support network. Talk to your friends and family about what you are going through. They can offer you support and encouragement.
  
• Take care of yourself. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly. Taking care of yourself will help you to cope with the stress of the situation.
  

Breaking up with an abuser is not easy, but it is possible. With the right support, you can heal from the relationship and move on with your life.
If you are a highly sensitive person in an abusive relationship, please know that you are not alone. There is help available. Please reach out to Scott Olds, Psychotherapist, for support.
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

• The National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
  
• The National Center for Victims of Crime: 1-800-FYI-CALL
  
• The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE
  

To find out more, schedule an appointment with Scott Olds at ​(303) 817-8369 or email me at [email protected].

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As a psychotherapist, I have worked with many couples over the years, and I have seen firsthand what makes for a happy and healthy relationship. While every relationship is different, there are some key ingredients that all happy couples share.
Here are the top 5 things necessary for a happy relationship:

1. Communication. Communication is the foundation of any healthy relationship. It is important to be able to communicate openly and honestly with your partner, both about the good and the bad. This means being able to share your thoughts, feelings, and needs, and being willing to listen to your partner's as well.
2. Trust. Trust is another essential ingredient for a happy relationship. It means feeling confident that your partner is honest and faithful, and that they will be there for you when you need them. Trust takes time and effort to build, but it is worth it in the long run.
3. Respect. Respect is another important part of a happy relationship. It means valuing your partner's opinions and feelings, and treating them with kindness and consideration. Respect also means being able to disagree with your partner without being disrespectful.
4. Acceptance. Acceptance is the ability to see your partner for who they are, flaws and all. It means loving them unconditionally, even when they make mistakes. Acceptance is not always easy, but it is essential for a lasting relationship.
5. Shared values. Shared values are important for a happy relationship. This means having similar beliefs about important things in life, such as religion, finances, and family. When you share values, you have a common foundation on which to build your relationship.

Of course, no relationship is perfect. There will be times when you argue, disagree, and hurt each other's feelings. But if you have the key ingredients of communication, trust, respect, acceptance, and shared values, you will be able to weather these storms and come out stronger on the other side.
If you are struggling in your relationship, please know that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you, including therapy. A therapist can help you to improve your communication skills, resolve conflict, and build a stronger relationship.
If you are interested in learning more about therapy, please visit my website or contact me to schedule a consultation. I would be happy to discuss your individual needs and how I can help you create a happy and healthy relationship.

• Make time for each other. Even when you are busy, it is important to make time for your relationship. Schedule regular date nights, or simply find ways to connect with each other on a daily basis.
• Be supportive of each other. Be there for your partner when they need you, and offer them your love and support.
• Show appreciation for each other. Let your partner know how much you appreciate them, both verbally and physically.
• Be forgiving. Everyone makes mistakes. When your partner hurts you, be willing to forgive them and move on.
• Work together as a team. Relationships are a partnership. Be willing to work together to solve problems and make decisions.

If you follow these tips, you will be well on your way to creating a happy and healthy relationship.