Identifying and Setting Healthy Boundaries

---

Sometimes our relationships can feel overwhelming, like we’re over-functioning, constantly giving, or quietly feeling taken advantage of. You might feel underappreciated, drained, or even invisible. Often, these feelings point to unclear or loose boundaries with others.

Healthy boundaries are not about shutting people out or being unkind. They are about creating space where relationships can actually thrive. Boundaries are different from walls and they don’t always exist to block people out, but to protect your time, energy, and emotional wellbeing. They help define what's okay for you and what isn’t, which in turn helps others understand how to be in relationship with you.

While setting boundaries can feel uncomfortable, especially if you weren’t raised to believe you’re allowed to have them, they are a critical act of self respect. In fact, boundaries make it more likely that your relationships will feel safe, balanced, and respectful on both sides.

Sometimes, it’s just deeply validating to hear from an unbiased third party that the boundaries you’re wanting to set are not only reasonable, they’re healthy. There is nothing wrong with needing space, clarity, or emotional protection. Honoring those needs is a sign of growth, not selfishness.

Together, we can explore where your boundaries currently stand, how they’ve been shaped, and why certain people or situations might challenge them. We’ll also work on identifying the types of boundaries that serve you, how to communicate them effectively, and how to navigate the guilt or resistance that can sometimes follow.

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Boundaries are a skill and like any skill, they can be learned, practiced, and strengthened over time.