Real things I’ve said in therapy this week. 1. Every relationship serves a purpose—sometimes it’s not the one we expected. 👉🏻Why it works: This invites reflection without judgment, helping people find meaning or lessons even in difficult or short-lived relationships. 2. What if we reframe the way you think about that relationship? 👉🏻Why it works: Encourages cognitive flexibility, opening the door to new perspectives that reduce emotional distress. 3. What would it look like if that’s actually not the case? 👉🏻Why it works: Gently challenges unhelpful assumptions, allowing space for alternative explanations and possibilities. 4. It’s possible to care about someone and still need distance from them. 👉🏻Why it works: Validates complex feelings, normalizing the need for boundaries without erasing care or compassion. 5. You’re not overreacting—you’re reacting to your reality. 👉🏻Why it works: Validates lived experiences while countering self-doubt, which helps reduce shame and self-criticism. 6. What if you accept that this is just who they are—and then drop those expectations? 👉🏻Why it works: Encourages radical acceptance, which frees people from the emotional exhaustion of trying to change others. ✨Common theme✨ These statements all invite a shift in perspective, helping people loosen rigid thinking and make room for acceptance, boundaries, and self-compassion. At their core, they empower people to respond to reality rather than fight it. Follow @drrachelnyc . . . #realtalk #realtherapy #therapyinthemoment #cbttools #cbttherapy #therapytalk #lifelessons #therapistinaction #realtalkwithdrrachel #whenlifehappensbook