Navigating Uncertainty: Showing Up for Ourselves and Others


Peak Couples & Sex Therapy

Empowering individuals and couples to cultivate fulfilling lives by fostering healthy, flourishing, intimate connections through expert therapy and sexual education.

This past week, I’ve shared meaningful conversations with my teammates about how we continue to show up wholeheartedly for others while navigating the same uncertainties as our clients. These discussions reminded me of the early days of the pandemic, when every session was marked by shared uncertainty, fear, and confusion.

In those moments, we didn’t have all the answers. We couldn’t take the discomfort away or provide false reassurances. But there were impactful things we could do—ways we could support our clients and each other. These lessons are just as relevant today.

Relieve Stress Itself

While we can’t always eliminate stressors, we can address how stress manifests in our bodies and minds. Maintaining an elevated heart rate for 30 minutes is one of the best ways to reduce stress. If the gym or a speed walk isn’t an option, consider alternatives: a hearty belly laugh, working on a creative project, a long cuddle, or some sexy time. These moments matter.

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Watch this 5 minute video for a little more on stressors and stress.

Follow Their Lead

Not everyone will react the same way to current events. It’s important to create a space where clients, and our friends and family, feel comfortable exploring their emotions at their own pace—whether that means processing openly or holding back. Respecting their journey builds trust and connection.

Allow for a Human Experience

It’s natural to feel pain and fear; acknowledging these emotions is not “wallowing.” Giving yourself permission to feel is essential to moving through difficult times. We often remind clients that whether they’re processing past trauma or current struggles, the same holds true: feeling is part of healing. This is true for us, too.

Recognize Your Own Discomfort

Uncertainty is uncomfortable, but growth happens within that discomfort. Remind yourself that you’ve faced challenges before and come out stronger. This time is no different. Recognize the safety of the present moment—your home, your community, your relationships. Being too focused on future “what ifs” can be exhausting. Ground yourself in the now and find reassurance there.

Ask for Support

It’s okay to reach out for help. If you need a moment to break down or need extra support, that’s valid. Lean on those you trust. You don’t have to operate at 100% all the time—you’ll get back to your usual pace in due time.

Embrace the Gray

Black-and-white thinking is a cognitive distortion that leaves us feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. If you catch yourself thinking in absolutes—words like “always” or “never”—pause and reflect. Challenge yourself to find the gray area. That’s where resilience is built.

We are all in this together, finding ways to support our clients, our teammates, and ourselves. In this shared experience, we continue to show up, grow, and evolve—even in times of uncertainty.

~Andrea

113 Cherry St #92768, Seattle, WA 98104-2205
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Peak Couples & Sex Therapy

As featured in the Washington Post, Peak has grown to a multi-state psychotherapy practice (DC, VA, MD, WA) providing relationship and sex therapy, as well as virtual wellness experiences and workshops. Our newsletter brings a fun dose of helpful and practical tips, tools and information for your overall mental wellbeing, especially in the realm of relationships and sexuality.

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