Episode 89: When A Relationship Has to Change—How to Tolerate Discomfort, Face an Attachment Void, & Resource Yourself

We need attachments to other people, places, and to God. Yet transitions have a way of shaking up those attachments—even healthy ones!
Today we’re talking all about how to balance our need to hold on to others - and also the need to let go. It takes skill and self-compassion to navigate these seasons of wrestling for more health, more connection, or more freedom.
Here’s what we cover:
1. Healthy & unhealthy attachments (9:34)
2. The 2 competing relationship needs everyone has (21:45)
3. Attachment voids (28:12)
4. Practices to anchor yourself (33:50)
5. The role of liminal figures (40:08)
Find a full transcript and list of resources from this episode here.
Do you have questions for Dr. Alison?⁠ Leave them here.
Want to receive free bonus content? ⁠⁠Sign up for my free weekly email here.
Thanks to our sponsors:
Go to ⁠www.organifi.com/bestofyou⁠ today and use code BESTOFYOU for 20% off your order today.
Go to AquaTru.com and enter code BESTOFYOU at checkout to get 20% OFF any AquaTru purifier!
Ritual’s Essential for Women 18+ is a multivitamin you can actually trust.
Get 40% off your first month for a limited time at ritual.com/BESTOFYOU.
This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp, Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/BESTOFYOU and get on your way to being your best self.
Get 35% off your first order of Sundays. Go to SundaysForDogs.com/BESTOFYOU or use code BESTOFYOU at checkout.
Related Episodes:
Episode 16: What are Attachment Styles and Why Does it Matter?
Episode 88: Navigating Transitions—What to Do When Change Stirs up Anxiety, Uncertainty, or Confusion
Other episodes with Rowena Day:
Episode 44: Why Anger is a Surprising Friend, What Happens When You Avoid It, and How to Create Space for Healthy Expression of Anger in Your Family
Episode 63: Spiritual Direction, the Power of Listening, & How to Attune to Yourself and to Others
Episode 31: Peace-Keeping, Anger Avoidance, and How to Start Using Your Voice
Music by Andy Luiten
Sound editing by Kelly Kramarik
While Dr. Cook is a counselor, the content of this podcast and any of the products provided by Dr. Cook are not specific counseling advice nor are they a substitute for individual counseling. The content and products provided on this podcast are for informational purposes only.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices