Allison Bruce

Burnout is often framed as a problem of poor work life balance, inadequate self care, or ineffective stress management. While these factors may contribute, emerging research in trauma, neuroscience, and psychophysiology suggests that burnout is also deeply connected to nervous system dysregulation. Chronic stress impacts far more than emotional wellbeing. Prolonged exposure to stress alters physiological functioning within the autonomic nervous system, influencing emotional regulation,...

A common clinical observation is that individuals often find themselves repeatedly drawn into similar relational dynamics, even when they consciously intend to choose differently. Clients frequently report an increased ability to identify red flags, greater insight into past relational injuries, and a clear cognitive commitment to change. Yet, despite this awareness, the pattern persists. This phenomenon is not random, nor is it adequately explained by a lack of insight or motivation. Rather,...

Most people do not want comfort as much as they think they do. What they are often seeking is relief. There is a meaningful difference between the two. Comfort can be restorative. It can be the warmth of home, the steadiness of a safe relationship, or the deep exhale that comes when the body is finally allowed to rest. Relief, however, can become something more urgent. It can become the reflexive need to escape anything that stretches us, challenges us, exposes us, or asks more of us than we...