Silvana Espinoza Lau, LMFT
Anti-oppressive, decolonised, and social justice oriented healing.
Relationship Counseling / Couples Counseling / Systems Counseling
Counseling for 2 or more people in any type of relationship that are not communicating as they used to, and are struggling to connect instead.
Being in a romantic relationship is not what you see on TV. Being in a relationship does not mean to live happy forever after.
A relationship is a constant commitment to connect and understand the other through vulnerability and accountability.
In relationship counseling, we do not seek to change the other party, in relationship counseling, we seek to be better and hold ourselves and our partners accountable to also be better and more connected with each other.
ISSUES I TREAT
My practice focuses mainly on supporting individuals of historically marginalised and underrepresented identities who have endured the impact of racial trauma, systems of oppression, acculturation, being othered, oppressive policies, imposter syndrome, and burnout.
COMMUNICATION AND CONNECTION PROBLEMS
Communication and connection problems can create distance between partners and lead to feelings of frustration, loneliness, and misunderstanding. Often, these issues stem from miscommunication, unspoken expectations, or emotional disconnection. Partners may struggle to express their needs or feel unheard, which can cause tension. Over time, unresolved conflicts and unmet emotional needs erode intimacy and trust. Working on clear, compassionate communication and building emotional connection are key to restoring harmony and deepening intimacy in relationships.
LIFE CHANGES & TRANSITIONS WITHIN A RELATIONSHIP
Life changes, whether planned or unexpected, can bring both excitement and stress to a relationship. Transitions like moving, career shifts, having children, or even personal growth can challenge the stability of your connection. These shifts often require couples to adapt to new roles, expectations, and emotions. Without open communication and mutual support, these changes can lead to feelings of disconnection or strain. Therapy can help partners navigate these transitions, offering tools to strengthen their bond and grow together through life's evolving phases.
BURNOUT ISSUES
COMPASSION FATIGUE
VICARIOUS TRAUMA IN ONE OR ALL PARTNERS
When one or any partner is experiencing burnout, compassion fatigue, or vicarious trauma, it can deeply affect the emotional connection and balance in the relationship. These issues often arise from constant caregiving, work stress, or secondary trauma exposure, leading to emotional exhaustion and disconnection. Therapy offers a space to address these challenges by fostering mutual understanding, restoring emotional energy, and providing tools for self-care and partner support, so all individuals can heal and reconnect within the relationship.
