Life By Design Therapy

  Many people grow up believing that safety in relationships comes from keeping the peace by saying the right things, avoiding conflict, staying calm, and being agreeable. But in our work with clients, we often see that the moments of deepest connection aren’t the ones where everything feels easy. They’re the moments of honesty, when someone shares what’s true, even when it feels uncomfortable or risky. That’s when relationships begin to feel more authentic. So many of us spend our lives protecting ourselves from being seen, hiding what feels messy, fearing that if we’re fully known, we’ll lose the connection we want most. Yet, again and again, we see the opposite happen. When someone is brave enough to be vulnerable and says something like, ‘I felt hurt when…’ or ‘I’m scared we’re drifting apart,’ something shifts. In an emotionally safe relationship, their nervous system can begin to relax, and the connection naturally softens. That moment of truth becomes a bridge back to safety...

  For those who celebrate today, Happy Thanksgiving from Life by Design Therapy ! We encourage you to use this time to engage with your loved ones, create a space of gratitude, and honor the Indigenous as this day could be a reminder of what they have endured. https://www.lifebydesigntherapy.com/

  In therapy , we often hear people say, “I want to be honest, but every time I try, it turns into a fight.” It’s natural to hesitate before sharing what’s real, especially when honesty feels like it might risk the closeness you’ve worked so hard to protect. But honesty doesn’t have to be loud or harsh. Sometimes it’s quiet, intentional, and rooted in care. In our work with couples, we’ve seen that honesty begins long before the words come out. It starts with awareness by noticing what’s happening in your body, pausing before reacting, and asking yourself, “What am I really trying to say?” When you can stay grounded and present, honesty becomes less about being right and more about being real. That’s where the connection begins to grow. Here are a few small ways to start: 🌿 Start small — You don’t need to begin with the deepest wound. Start with a small worry, disappointment, or appreciation. Safety builds in layers. 🌿 Name what’s happening in your body — Try saying, “This feel...

  November is Native American Heritage Month! 🍂 This month, we honor the strength, wisdom, and enduring spirit of Native American communities. It’s a time to slow down, listen, and learn; to reflect on the histories that have shaped this land and the stories that continue to live through art, music, and tradition. One way to honor this month is by investing time in education and connection. Learn about the true history of Native peoples, support Native-owned businesses and artists, and engage with local community events. At Life By Design Therapy ™, we believe healing happens through understanding and connection, both with ourselves and with the communities that surround us. ✨ Take time this month to honor, learn, and celebrate. https://www.lifebydesigntherapy.com/

  I recently realized I had lost the ability to be still. Waiting for the coffee to brew? I’d scroll my phone. Walking to the car? I’d put on a YouTube video. Five minutes before a meeting? I’d squeeze in emails. Every corner of my day got filled with something, some kind of noise, some kind of input. At first, I thought this was a good thing. I was being efficient, right? Maximizing every spare moment. But beneath the surface, it felt different. I started noticing a strange unease. Everything on my list felt urgent, but none of it felt meaningful. Read More https://www.lifebydesigntherapy.com/blog/5-simple-transitions-that-will-change-how-you-move-through-your-day

  Some days it feels like the world is spinning faster than any of us can keep up. And for teens, the weight can feel especially heavy. Between school demands, pressure about the future, navigating friendships, constant social media exposure, and the endless stream of news…it’s a lot. As a parent, you might notice your teen pulling away like spending more time in their room, giving one-word answers, or meeting your questions with sass instead of conversation. Maybe they seem moody or unpredictable, and as a parent, it can be hard to watch and not know how to help . https://www.lifebydesigntherapy.com/blog/10-ways-to-support-your-teens-mental-health

  Behind every session is a therapist who truly cares. 💛 At Life By Design Therapy™ , our team believes healing isn’t about “fixing” yourself, it’s about coming home to who you already are. We show up as humans first, therapists second. We’ve sat where you are, searching for calm, clarity, and connection, and we know how powerful it can be when you finally feel seen. ✨ Meet the team that holds space for your healing, one nervous system at a time. We offer in-person therapy in Berkeley, CA, and online sessions throughout California , so you can begin your healing journey wherever you are. Ready to start? Book a free consultation and see what it feels like to be supported by a team that truly understands. Link in bio! https://www.lifebydesigntherapy.com/holistic-somatic-therapists