In today’s 60-minute session at my office, the client talked about the emotional aftermath of ending a toxic friendship. They said, "It feels like I’ve lost a part of myself," explaining the complex feelings of guilt, anger, and sadness that have surfaced since the relationship ended. The client shared how this friend had been manipulative and emotionally draining, but also how difficult it has been to sever ties. We explored how toxic relationships can erode self-worth and lead to confusion about boundaries, making it hard to know when it’s time to let go.
We discussed the importance of setting clear boundaries in relationships and how to recognize signs of toxicity. I suggested that they focus on healing by surrounding themselves with supportive people and practicing self-compassion. The client seemed relieved to have validation for their decision but expressed fear of repeating the same pattern with other relationships. Their homework is to identify one positive relationship in their life and strengthen it by spending more time together. We’ll follow up next session to check in on their progress.