Complex family relationships

Setting Boundaries with Family: Counselling in Essex

Boundaries are about protecting your wellbeing, not punishing others. Counselling can help you set them with clarity and less guilt.

Understanding

What are healthy boundaries?

Boundaries are the limits we set on what we will accept, give and share. They show others how to treat us. For many people, especially those raised to put others first, setting them brings guilt, fear or conflict.

Counselling helps you identify what you need, find words to express it and cope with the reactions.

You may recognise

  • Saying yes when you mean no
  • Feeling guilty for putting yourself first
  • Being drained by family demands
  • Fear of conflict or rejection
  • Feeling responsible for others’ feelings
  • Resentment building up

How I help

A gentle, tailored approach

Knowing your limits

Recognising what you need and want.

Finding the words

Practising clear, kind communication.

Coping with reactions

Staying steady when others push back.

Questions

Frequently asked questions

Is it selfish to set boundaries?

No. Healthy boundaries help relationships as well as you.

What if my family reacts badly?

That is common. We can plan how to handle it.

About Clare Kiernan

Why Essex Therapy

I bring over 25 years of counselling experience, a compassionate, collaborative and evidence-informed approach, and a commitment to working at your pace. I am a BACP accredited counsellor and qualified clinical supervisor.

Read more about me

Part of: Complex family relationships

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Get in touch to talk about how I can support you. There is no pressure and no obligation.