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Notes On Mental Health

The Private Matters Psychotherapy Blog

Marleen writes about the things that matter most in psychotherapy today.

  • Adult daughter sitting thoughtfully in a bright living room while an older parent sits in the background, suggesting tension in a parent-child relationship.

    When Family Makes You Question Yourself

    Do conversations with your parent leave you feeling confused, guilty, or like you’re always the problem? This article explores how gaslighting can show up in parent-child relationships and why it can become so hard to trust yourself.

    Marleen Filimon

  • An Indigenous mother sits on a couch in a softly lit living room, resting her hand against her forehead while her child plays in the background.

    Burnout in High-Functioning Moms

    You’re keeping everything moving, but your body feels tired, tense, or on edge. This article explores why burnout in high-functioning mothers can look like competence on the outside while the nervous system is quietly overwhelmed.

    Marleen Filimon

  • A person sits calmly in a softly lit therapy office, appearing grounded and reflective in a warm, professional setting.

    How Trauma Shows Up in the Body

    When your body feels tense, wired, numb, or constantly on edge, it may not be “all in your head.” This article explores how trauma can affect the nervous system and body.

    Marleen Filimon

  • A client sits calmly on a teal couch during a therapy session, holding a notebook, while a therapist listens in the foreground.

    Are You Ready For Trauma Therapy?

    Many people wonder if they’re ready for trauma therapy, especially if they worry about feeling overwhelmed or opening things up too quickly. This article explores what readiness actually means, and why trauma therapy should move at the pace your nervous system can handle.

    Marleen Filimon

  • mother dropping son off at school bus

    Back-to-School Stress in Halton

    September brings excitement and change, but also stress for many families.

    From rushed mornings to new routines, the shift can feel overwhelming.

    You’re not alone in this.

    Marleen Filimon

  • client and therapist chatting

    What to Expect in Your First Therapy Session

    Your first therapy session usually starts with a welcome, a conversation, and space to settle in. You don’t need to know exactly what to say, and it’s normal to feel nervous, emotional, or unsure about what to expect. Part of the first session is simply helping you feel more comfortable with the process.

    Marleen Filimon

  • A person in a yellow outfit enjoys wine with a fluffy dog, surrounded by art, grapes, and lemons in a modern room.

    What Is Self-Compassion?

    Self-compassion is the ability to look at your own physical and emotional distress, realizing that you are experiencing some form of human suffering, and asking yourself, what do I need in this moment to make my suffering less?

    Marleen Filimon

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