The experience of Relational Trauma can give rise to any number of adaptive behaviours. Because of our genius when we are young (don’t worry, I still think you’re brilliant) it is natural for us to create adaptations when we experience something that feels overwhelming for us. We might decide for example that we are never going to feel that amount of aloneness ever again so we decide for example, we just don’t need anyone and grow to avoid getting close to people…or we might decide that we can never be alone again so we make sure that those around us are always happy with us and become ardent people pleasers or we - the possibilities are as endless as they are genius. Sometimes genius adaptive behaviours we create when we are young, can become stuck and turn out to be maladaptive as we grow older. Adaptive then, maladaptive now.

Relationship Counselling Cairns can support you to develop greater connection, heal past hurt, understand and prevent painful patterns, and increase your relational skills and esteem in your relationship. Contact Biannka Brannigan, Cairns Relationship Counsellor, Educator and Psychotherapist.

Self-esteem, the way we perceive ourselves and our worth, is a complex and ever-evolving aspect of our lives. It plays a significant role in shaping our thoughts, behaviours, and interactions with the world around us.  Self-esteem can be both healthy and unhealthy. Here we focus on the unhealthy patterns of self-esteem and the impact on the relationship we have with ourselves and those closest to us. Contact Biannka, Cairns Counselling and Psychotherapy.

Gestalt Psychotherapy is a holistic, humanistic therapy that believes that people are born with the resources and abilities to lead a rewarding and creative life and to have meaningful and fulfilling relationships with others. Gestalt psychotherapy has been applied to a wide range of therapeutic settings, including individual therapy, couples therapy, group therapy, organizational development, community development and family therapy. Gestalt Psychotherapy is dynamic, powerful and life changing. Book your appointment with Biannka, psychotherapist and councillor in Cairns, Kuranda, Queensland, Australia.

The importance of self-worth and self-esteem in our lives extends far beyond individual well-being. These two pillars influence the quality of our relationships, guiding us towards forming meaningful connections with others. When we embrace our inherent worthiness, we set healthier boundaries, fostering connections built on authenticity and mutual respect. Our self-esteem empowers us to recognize and celebrate our strengths and of those around us, cultivating a sense of unity and support in our shared human experience.

In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, the value of relationships has never been more apparent. We all long for meaningful connections with our partners, friends, family, and children. However, in a culture that often prioritizes individualism and self-centeredness, many of us lack the necessary skills to truly nurture and develop these relationships. As a therapist, I have dedicated myself to bridging this gap and empowering my clients with the tools they need to build strong and intimate connections. I

Relationships can be both fulfilling and challenging, and it’s not uncommon to experience periods of where things feel difficult. Understanding the different phases of love can provide insight into why your relationship might be going through a tough time.

Things I have learnt that I never want to forget…personal reflections on failings and learnings in relationship