Modern Love

A Therapist’s Emotional Tool Kit for a Better Holiday Season

30 snips
Nov 26, 2025
Nedra Glover-Tawwab is a licensed therapist and author known for her insights on cultivating healthy relationships. She discusses the emotional complexities of holiday gatherings, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries. Nedra shares why Black Friday sees a spike in therapy requests and offers practical tools for managing family dynamics and stress. From navigating controversial topics to reconnecting with estranged siblings, her strategies help listeners create a more enjoyable holiday experience—even amidst grief and challenging relationships.
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INSIGHT

Holiday Pressure Cooker

  • Holidays act as a relationship pressure cooker, surfacing unresolved dynamics quickly.
  • Nedra Glover Tawwab says preparation, not avoidance, helps manage that intensity.
ANECDOTE

Black Friday Therapy Spike

  • Nedra's practice receives many calls and emails on Black Friday from people hit by holiday conflict.
  • She says Black Friday is when many start therapy after 'almost breaking' over family gatherings.
ADVICE

Catch Your Regression Early

  • Notice when your energy shifts and give yourself a quick check-in to avoid regressing into old roles.
  • Use short self-talk or a note to remind yourself you're an adult and can choose a different response.
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