I have been thinking about love a lot lately. Perhaps it’s the holidays and the impending new year? It’s a time to hope for something better and also a time that can be fraught with tension, chaos, or loneliness. Or, maybe my musing on love stems from the chaos and division we see not only here in the United States but globally as we experience the brutality of war? It could come from the reality and notion of hate crimes in our news today. Whatever the root, and likely all the above, I have been thinking of love and want to speak to this indescribable word, for who can define love in any succinct way? Certainly not me. I do believe in love, though, and I do believe love can heal. And, science is proving it.

A favorite quote of mine is by the renowned poet, Rumi, “Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it.” This quote has been in my heart of late, as I journey within to see the places where I might be protecting myself and withholding love. It sets the tone for what I hope might begin a journey for you during this time of festivities and joy leading up to the new year, amidst the palpable and paradoxical backdrop of global tension and division.

Navigating Change through Online Therapy: Reflections and Intentions

Let’s face it, the end of a year and the beginning of a new one is busy, busy, busy. It’s also a time of questioning, planning, and a time when we think of making changes. What are you thinking about? Are you thinking of changes you can make next year? What are your barriers to love? Barriers for each person are unique. What I see most often, though, is unresolved relationship trauma that paralyzes a person’s sense of safety and ability to love. And, this makes sense when one has experienced relationship trauma. Whether from childhood or adulthood trauma creates a need to protect oneself and thankfully our system is wired to do so.

When we are in danger we need to protect and defend; this is not a time to embrace vulnerability and love. We are wired for it, though; we are wired for love and when in a space of safety we can begin to remove the barriers and once again love with an open heart. If you are caught up in life, work, family, and all the things life throws at you but also feel frozen or confused about what you want out of next year, then online therapy might be the perfect fit for you. It could be a path to begin unveiling the barriers that prevent you from living the life you want. Let’s dive into love and the barriers that Rumi speaks of and look at how online therapy from a depth perspective can help you address your barriers.

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The Nature of Barriers

Love, a concept as ancient as humanity itself, has been the subject of countless poems, songs, and philosophical musings. It is both a force that binds us together and a source of profound personal growth. In the pursuit of love, Rumi implores us not to seek love externally but to turn our gaze inward. His words resonate with a timeless truth: the barriers to love are often self-erected as a result of trauma or other adverse experiences. This is a natural defense to suffering and pain. The path to true connection lies in facing these internal obstacles.

What are these barriers that Rumi speaks of? They are the walls you construct within yourself, shaped by past trauma, negative experiences, fears, and insecurities. These barriers can take many forms, such as mistrust, fear of vulnerability, or an inability to let go of past hurts. As you navigate the complexities of human relationships these barriers act as shields, shielding you from potential pain but also preventing love from reaching you.

The Journey Within

Facing these barriers requires courage and self-reflection. It demands a willingness to confront the shadows within, to acknowledge and understand the wounds that have shaped you. This journey is not easy, as it may involve revisiting pain and past trauma. It may involve challenging long-held, rigid beliefs. However, it’s through this introspective process that you begin to identify the root causes of your barriers to love. This is what online depth therapy is all about – going deep to get to the root and core of who you are so that you can love wholeheartedly. You cannot cut out your wounds, but together we can work to help you integrate your wounds and remove the barriers to love.

Cultivating Self-Awareness

Self-awareness is key. We will explore the unconscious while at the same time address what is conscious and present in your life. By becoming attuned to your thoughts, feelings, and reactions, you gain insight into the patterns that contribute to your barriers. This awareness serves as a powerful tool for facing these obstacles, allowing you to replace self-limiting beliefs with a more compassionate and open-hearted mindset.

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The Role of Vulnerability

At the heart of Rumi’s wisdom lies the recognition that love flourishes in vulnerability. Breaking down the barriers means embracing the inherent vulnerability that comes with opening yourself to others. It involves letting go of the need for control and allowing genuine connection to take root. This vulnerability is not a sign of weakness but a testament to your strength in facing the uncertainties of love with an open heart. As noted above, unresolved relationship trauma can result in defensive barriers to vulnerability, but in a safe environment you can begin to peel back the layers of defense and heal.

Online Therapy: A Transformative Process of Self-Discovery

As you embark on this journey within, you discover that the process of dismantling barriers is transformative. It’s not only about opening yourself to others but also about fostering a deeper connection with your true self. In tearing down these walls you create space for personal growth, self-love, and a deep connection to love and the human spirit.

With the new year approaching it may be time to slow down and take some time out for you. Maybe you have stopped just long enough to feel a hum of unhappiness or disconnection? It could be that you have awakened to a life that simply does not fit anymore. Or, perhaps you feel a restlessness urging you to take stock and discover what else life might hold for you? Maybe you are realizing you have unresolved trauma you want to address?

If you feel your heart is closed off or you feel scared and paralyzed to be you out there in the world then online therapy from a depth perspective may be a critical step in starting the new year. Rumi’s poignant words invite us to embark on a profound journey, a journey within to face the barriers that hinder the flow of love.

A woman sits at a table writing in a notebook while looking at her laptop. Want to learn how online therapy in Austin, TX could be right for you? Speak with an online therapist in Texas today to see how it can benefit you.

Heal your Heart with Online Therapy in Texas Today!

If you find yourself contemplating the changes you want in the upcoming year but feel frozen or confused, online therapy could be the transformative step you need. As an online therapist, I specialize in addressing barriers and trauma that may hinder your path to a more fulfilling life. Dive into the depths of self-discovery and healing with the convenience and accessibility of online therapy with Lysle Shaw Psychotherapy.

  • Reach out for a free consultation
  • Start living a more fulfilled life!

Other Therapy Services Offered at Lysle Shaw Psychotherapy in Austin, Houston, and throughout Texas

At Lysle Shaw Psychotherapy, I offer a diverse range of therapeutic services that extend beyond online therapy in Texas. My therapy sessions provide a convenient and accessible platform for you to explore your inner self, navigate life’s challenges, and embark on a transformative journey. In addition to online therapy, I also provide expertise in outdoor psychotherapy, trauma therapy, individual therapy for relationship issues, and Jungian dreamwork. Take the first step toward a more fulfilling and complete life by reaching out today. Your path to growth and healing begins here.

Do you think Online Therapy in Austin, TX could be the right fit? Speak with an online therapist in Texas to learn more!

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