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Hi Reader, I’ve been thinking about something I see often in my work—and something many people quietly carry: You can want closeness… If that’s something you’ve experienced, I want you to know—nothing is wrong with you. More often than not, this isn’t about a lack of desire or connection. After we’ve been hurt, the body can start to associate intimacy with risk. Not because you’re broken. 💡 Here are a few gentle ways to begin working with this instead of against it: • Name what’s happening (without judgment) • Slow things down • Get curious, not critical • Look for subtle shifts These moments matter more than they seem. If you’d like to explore this more deeply, I wrote a new blog post that walks through: You can read it here:
And if you’re wanting a gentle place to start within yourself, I also created a free booklet: You don’t have to rush this. I’m really glad you’re here. P.S. If you’ve found these emails or resources supportive, one of the most helpful ways to support my work is by leaving a Google review. I know privacy matters deeply—so even something brief or general about your experience is more than enough. |
Hi, I’m Raquel Perez, a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Colorado. I’m passionate about creating safe spaces for insight and emotional connection, whether through one-on-one therapy or my online resources. My approach blends traditional therapeutic techniques with holistic practices to help individuals navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. In my work, I focus on the importance of safety for insight—creating an environment where clients feel seen, heard, and understood. I offer a variety of services, including Ketamine-Assisted Therapy, Couples/Relationship Therapy, Sex Therapy, and individual Counseling. My goal is always to help you feel empowered to face your struggles, reconnect with your inner wisdom, and take steps toward a life full of meaning and connection. In addition to therapy, I offer free resources like guided meditations and workshops, including my 7-day personal development workshop on overcoming the depression cycle. I also host live Q&A events in my private Facebook group, where we dive into mental health topics and strategies for self-discovery. I’m here to support you on your journey toward clarity, self-awareness, and growth.
Hi Reader, There’s a painful place many people find themselves in: You understand your patterns.You can explain your triggers.You know why intimacy feels hard. …but your body still tightens.Still pulls away.Still struggles to soften. One of the biggest things I’ve learned—both personally and professionally—is this: Insight alone doesn’t heal intimacy.Safety does. Your nervous system changes through repeated experiences of gentleness, pacing, and emotional safety—not pressure. A few small...
Hi Reader, Sometimes we deeply want connection…but our body still feels guarded. You may notice it as tension, emotional distance, shutting down, or feeling like part of you is holding back even in moments that should feel safe. One of the most important things I want you to know is this: Your protection is not the problem.Your nervous system learned to guard for a reason. In this week’s blog, I explore: why emotional guardedness happens how the nervous system shapes intimacy and connection...
Hi Reader, You can love your partner… and still feel your body pull away. If that’s been your experience, I want you to know—this isn’t failure. It’s often your nervous system doing exactly what it was designed to do: protect you when something doesn’t feel fully safe. I just shared a new blog post on this, and I wanted to send you a few gentle, practical shifts you can start using right away: 1. Shift the questionInstead of “Why don’t I want this?”Try: “What would help my body feel a little...