Alexa Gelles

& Associates

604-239-3044

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The Stronger Together
Counselling Blog

Counselling Information & Relationship Education, Resources, Guidance, and Tools For Individuals & Couples.

Let’s grow your relationships stronger together.

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How to Stop the Withdraw-Pursue Cycle and Build a Stronger Relationship

If you’re tired of repeating the same argument with your partner, you’re not alone. The withdraw-pursue dynamic is something many couples face. One partner pulls back, while the other pushes harder, and before you know it, you’re both stuck in a pattern that’s hard to break. Understanding this cycle can help you get past it […]

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The Counsellor Behind The Blog
Hey, I’m Alexa! I’m a Registered Clinical Counsellor based in Vancouver, B.C. I’ve curated this blog specifically for you to answer your most pressing questions about counselling and building healthy relationships.

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Feeling unsure or stuck in your relationship can be exhausting. Individual relationship counselling in Vancouver helps you understand patterns, manage strong reactions, and develop skills to feel confident and secure in your relationship. Key Takeaways Table of Contents Quick Answer Up Front If you notice repeating patterns, strong reactions, or doubts in your relationship, individual […]

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woman looking down frustrated with her relationship

Feeling unsure or insecure in your relationship can be exhausting. Relationship counselling in Vancouver helps individuals understand why it’s difficult to trust, manage triggers, and develop skills to feel secure and confident with their partner. Key Takeaways Table of Contents Quick Answer Up Front If you struggle with insecurity or doubt in your relationship, relationship […]

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man and woman standing in an open field overlooking mountains

Struggling to communicate in your relationship can feel frustrating and exhausting. Relationship counselling in Vancouver can help you understand why arguments happen and give you tools to respond thoughtfully instead of reacting automatically. Key Takeaways Table of Contents Quick Answer Up Front If you often shut down, argue repeatedly, or have trouble expressing yourself, relationship […]

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woman smiling at her partner after positive communication moment while they share coffee

Starting counselling can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. Knowing what to expect can ease anxiety and help you make the most of your session. Key Takeaways Table of Contents Quick Answer Up Front Your first counselling session in Vancouver is a 50-minute, open-ended meeting designed to help you and your counsellor understand […]

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man frustrated while looking at ipad

Deciding between individual or couples counselling can feel overwhelming. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right approach for your situation and get the support you need. Key Takeaways Table of Contents Quick Answer Up Front If your challenges are personal — like emotional patterns, attachment issues, or stress affecting relationships — individual counselling […]

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Recognizing when to seek support can make a big difference for your mental health and relationships. You don’t have to wait until things feel overwhelming to reach out. This guide will help you understand the early signs, why getting help early matters, and how Aligned Relationship Counselling in Vancouver can support you. Key Takeaways Table […]

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Finding the right counsellor can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve tried therapy before. This guide will help you understand what to look for, how to find a good fit, and practical steps to feel confident in your choice. Key Takeaways Table of Contents Quick Answer Up Front Finding the right counsellor in Vancouver doesn’t have […]

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man walking awya from woman after difficult relationship conversation

Using the Built to Last Method to Strengthen Your Foundation Have you ever found yourself stuck in the same fight with your partner—over and over again? Whether it starts with something small (like choosing a movie) or bigger topics like parenting or finances, the cycle can be exhausting. You reconnect… only to fall back into […]

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If you’ve ever wondered why something as beautiful as love can feel so hard, you’re not alone. You want connection, but end up in the same arguments. You want closeness, but feel distant. Maybe you’ve tried to figure it out on your own—or told yourself that real love shouldn’t take this much work. Here’s the […]

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woman smiling at her partner after positive communication moment while they share coffee

Ever catch yourself preparing your response before your partner even finishes speaking? Maybe you’re already crafting a counterpoint, clarifying your intention, or even getting ready to prove you’re right. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Most of us listen to defend rather than to understand—and that’s where communication really starts to break down. The […]

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5 Communication Mistakes that Keep You Going in Circles

* The 5 most common mistakes that keep couples stuck in the same cycle
* How to shift conversations so you actually feel heard
* Simple, therapist-backed strategies you can start using right away

Tired of going in circles with your partner? See how to have conversations that create connection instead of keeping you stuck including:




    (and how to fix it)

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