Growing up, I often heard that I was ``too sensitive`` and that I took things too much to heart. Hearing this made me feel like there was something wrong with me, and as you might know, that’s not a great feeling. Fortunately, I soon discovered that my sensitivity made me an empathetic and patient listener! I loved being there for my friends and family. I remember thinking, ``If only I could make a career out of this.``

As a teenager and young adult, I didn’t know what psychotherapists actually did. I assumed therapy was only for people in complete despair or facing life-or-death situations. Since my problems didn’t seem to fit that description, I soldiered on alone. During my university years, my anxiety levels increased dramatically. I felt overwhelmed by a myriad of problems that I needed to solve, but I didn’t know how. Questions like “What should I do with my life? Why do I feel so anxious dating this guy? Am I good enough?” were constant companions.

One night, feeling especially anxious and unable to sleep, I found myself mindlessly watching infomercials. My attention was suddenly drawn to someone describing symptoms that mirrored exactly what I was experiencing. It turned out to be an ad for a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy course focused on anxiety and depression. Watching it, I had an “aha” moment. Until that point, I hadn’t even realized that what I was feeling was ongoing anxiety. Now, I could name the sense of dread I had been experiencing, and I discovered there was something I could do to address it. Almost on impulse, I called the number on the screen and signed up for the Overcoming Anxiety & Depression program. The cost was steep—$600—a significant investment for me as a student, but if it meant reclaiming my life, it was worth it.

The program worked for me. It was effective because it provided a roadmap and practical tools that helped me manage my anxiety.

This experience marked a major turning point in my life and eventually led me toward becoming a therapist. I realized that if I could transform my anxiety—and the frustration that often accompanied it—into self-knowledge, empowerment, and motivation to live fully, I could help others free themselves as well.

Fast-forward many years: I am now a practicing therapist with a thriving private practice specializing in anxiety and depression. But something still felt incomplete. Although I had a solid handle on my emotions and could guide others in doing the same, I struggled in my romantic relationship. Too much closeness felt overwhelming, while too much distance was painful. Asking for what I wanted was intimidating, and I often wasn’t effective at it. I found myself facing persistent interpersonal conflicts, lacking the tools to resolve them.

Then, I enrolled in a life-changing training program: the Developmental Couples Therapy Model. This year-long training gave me a new roadmap and essential skills, ultimately transforming my relationship. The most valuable insight I gained was understanding the concept of differentiation. Differentiation is the skill of becoming fully aware of your own feelings, wants, and needs—and then being able to express them calmly, while also listening as your partner does the same. It sounds simple, but developing this skill takes practice and patience. Along the way, you might encounter obstacles—such as limiting beliefs like, “If they really loved me, they would just know; I shouldn’t have to tell them,” or “I can’t ask for this; they’ll feel pressured.” This is where having an experienced guide—a therapist, coach, or mentor—can be invaluable in helping you navigate these challenges.

I founded Global Therapy with Viktoria to offer you the same kind of roadmap, tools, and guidance that helped me. Together, we can work to overcome your obstacles and create the life you desire!