You’re Allowed to Take Up Space in Your Own Life

Relationships Aren’t Supposed to Feel Like Constant Self-Editing

You’re the helper. The peacemaker. The one who figures it out so no one else has to.

But somewhere along the way, you started shrinking yourself to keep the peace—or to stay connected to people who don't always meet you halfway.

You might notice:

  • Saying “yes” when you’re screaming “no” internally

  • Feeling guilty or selfish when you need space or say no

  • Overexplaining yourself to avoid upsetting others

  • Feeling invisible, drained, or resentful in friendships or family dynamics

  • Struggling to trust that your needs are valid

It’s exhausting—and it's not the kind of connection you deserve.

How Therapy Helps You Set Boundaries and Break Old Patterns

At CLS Counseling & Consulting, we offer therapy that helps you understand your patterns, honor your needs, and build relationships rooted in mutual respect—not silent resentment.

Together, we’ll work on:

  • Identifying where you lose yourself in relationships

  • Challenging the guilt that comes with setting healthy boundaries
    Communicating your needs clearly and firmly (without spiraling afterward)

  • Breaking cycles of overgiving, fixing, or self-abandonment

  • Building connections that feel energizing, not depleting

You can have relationships where you feel seen, valued, and supported—without having to shrink yourself to fit.

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Common Relationship Dynamics We Explore

  • People-pleasing and conflict avoidance

  • Codependency and self-sacrificing behaviors

  • Difficulty trusting or asking for help

  • Fear of abandonment or rejection

  • Enmeshment with family, friends, or romantic partners

  • Struggles with emotional boundaries at work or school

Therapy can help you shift from surviving your relationships—to thriving in them. 

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Therapy Details

  • Virtual therapy available for Missouri and Illinois residents

  • 50-minute sessions via a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform

  • Most insurance plans accepted; private pay options available

  • Free 15-minute consultation call to explore your goals

A person with curly hair wearing glasses and a striped shirt is smiling.

Boundaries Aren’t Walls—They’re Bridges to Healthier Relationships

You’re allowed to take up space.
You’re allowed to need things from others.
You’re allowed to protect your peace.

Let’s build a life—and relationships—where you don’t have to disappear to feel loved.