Toxic Forgiveness with Counselors Brett and Ria

In this episode of the Happiness Playbook series, Ria Flanagan interviews Brent Peak, a counselor specializing in couples therapy. They discuss the importance of communication in relationships, the impact of childhood experiences on adult relationships, and the necessity of inner child work. Brent emphasizes that happiness should come from within rather than relying on partners. They also explore family dynamics, boundaries, and strategies for dealing with toxic relationships, including gaslighting. The conversation concludes with insights on self-care practices that enhance emotional well-being.takeaways Happiness is an inside job and should come from within. Couples need to communicate vulnerably to connect deeply. Understanding childhood experiences can help couples navigate their current relationships. Setting healthy boundaries is crucial in family dynamics. Toxic forgiveness can harm emotional well-being. It's important to recognize the roles we play in dysfunctional family systems. Civility is key when dealing with difficult family members. Nutrition and self-care practices significantly impact emotional health. Couples should focus on being a support for each other's happiness. The importance of self-worth and meaning in life cannot be overstated.