Are unclear or weak boundaries creating tension in your relationships?

In this essential conversation, I’m joined by psychotherapist Lizandra Leigertwood to unpack the role of personal boundaries in relationships and how learning to set them can transform your emotional wellbeing.

We dive into the psychology of boundary-setting, including how childhood trauma, attachment styles, and family dynamics shape your ability to advocate for your needs. Lizandra offers practical tools to help you identify unhealthy boundaries, reconnect with your core values, and begin communicating with more clarity and confidence.

If you've ever felt overwhelmed, resentful, or disconnected in close relationships, this episode will give you insight and actionable strategies to start building healthy, sustainable boundaries - without guilt.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

✅ What healthy boundaries actually look like in relationships
✅ How childhood experiences and trauma impact boundary setting
✅ The connection between attachment styles and emotional boundaries
✅ Signs of weak or overly rigid boundaries
✅ How to set boundaries without feeling selfish
✅ The importance of knowing your personal values and limits
✅ Real-world tools to practice assertiveness and protect your wellbeing

Who this episode is for:

This episode is perfect for anyone who:

• Struggles to say no or express needs in relationships
• Feels emotionally drained or taken for granted
• Wants to improve their communication and self-respect
• Is curious about how therapy approaches boundaries and emotional safety
• Seeks to heal family or partner dynamics with more clarity and compassion

Highlights include:
01:58 Defining healthy boundaries
03:19 Unhealthy boundaries and their impact
05:00 Childhood trauma and boundaries
08:50 Recognising red flags in boundaries
10:52 Family dynamics and enmeshment
15:41 Cutting off toxic relationships
18:37 Practical steps to set boundaries

If you liked this episode you may like:

#35: Healing the Invisible Scars: Understanding and Overcoming Childhood Emotional Neglect

#42: Breaking Free from People Pleasing Habits with Elsie Owen

This week's guest:
Lizandra is a psychotherapist who works in private practice

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The Hello Therapy podcast and the information provided by Dr Liz White (DClinPsy, CPsychol, AFBPsS, CSci, HCPC reg.), is solely intended for informational and educational purposes and does not constitute personalised advice. Please reach out to your GP or a mental health professional if you need support.