Redefining Love in All Its Shapes
Written By: Kaitlyn Lewis, LPC
February brings a cultural focus on romantic relationships, which can feel uplifting for some and painful for others. In therapy, we often explore love through a much wider lens: boundaries, emotional safety, friendship, self-worth, and healing old relational wounds.
Practical Ways to Explore your Relationship with Love
1. Identify what actually feels loving to you.
Consider:
What makes me feel safe?
What helps me feel valued?
Where do I feel pressure instead of care?
2. Practice receiving love, not just giving it.
This might look like accepting help, asking for support, or allowing someone to comfort you.
3. Notice your patterns with curiosity.
Do you avoid closeness? Overgive? Fear conflict? Shut down when overwhelmed?
These are common patterns rooted in early experiences and can be healed in therapy.
Helpful Resources
“Attached” by Levine & Heller (attachment styles)
The Gottman Institute’s free relationship tools
Esther Perel’s podcast Where Should We Begin?
Our therapists are here to support you whether you are nurturing relationships, healing from them, or learning how to build new ones. Contact us today to learn more.
