Dive into the depths of your past and discover the keys to unlocking your present as we explore the powerful concepts of "family of origin" and “origin wounds.” From the tender moments to the subtle missteps, our early family dynamics shape the very core of who we are. It's not just about trauma or neglect; even the most loving caregivers leave imprints that ripple through our lives.

Join us as New York Times bestselling author Vienna Pharaon guides us through the intricate web of relationships, self-worth, and worldview that we inherit from our upbringing. Together, we'll uncover the patterns that stealthily influence our present, and learn how confronting our origin wounds can lead to profound mental health and personal growth. Don't miss this eye-opening journey into the heart of your past, where understanding paves the way to healing and self-discovery.

“I'll hear people kind of with the narrative of, well, they did the best that they could, or they were so much better than their parents were to them. Right? There's many reasons why looking back at our family of origins can feel overwhelming and complicated. Sometimes we feel guilty. Sometimes we feel ungrateful. We're not on a hunt to find something. Right? It's not about trying to throw our parents or the adults under the bus. We're not trying to hate anybody. We're here. We're looking to acknowledge how we experienced those years and how we've internalized those things.” ~Vienna Pharaon, Author of “The Origins of You”

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

Our guest, Vienna Pharaon, is a licensed Marriage and Family therapist and one of New York City’s most sought-after relationship therapists. She has practiced therapy for more than fifteen years and is the founder of the group practice Mindful Marriage and Family Therapy. 

She received her master of science in marriage and family therapy from Northwestern University and trained extensively at The Family Institute, Bette D. Harris Family & Child Clinic. Pharaon has been featured in The Economist, Vice, and Motherly, and has led workshops for Peloton and Netflix, among others.

Vienna is the author of national bestseller The Origins of You, and the creator of @mindfulMFT on Instagram where she’s helping over 600K people around the world heal their wounds.

About "This Keeps Happening"

Every week, I speak with anonymous strangers about the challenges they’re facing in their lives and relationships. Listen as real people unpack emotional wounds with me. Together, we’ll attempt to break unhealthy patterns and find clarity and a way forward.

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without.

To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com.

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