In this episode of 'Swearing is Allowed', host Haley Veronyak delves into the often unconscious yet powerful concept of attachment wounds. She explains how these wounds can stem from subtle emotional experiences rather than overt trauma, and how they manifest in adult relationships. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding and managing these wounds rather than attempting to fix them, encouraging listeners to explore their own experiences and practice safe dependence in relationships.

In this episode, Haley Veronyak explores the concept of hyper independence, distinguishing it from healthy independence. She discusses the origins of hyper independence, its costs, and the emotional toll it takes on individuals. The conversation delves into the feelings of resentment and isolation that often accompany hyper independence, as well as practical steps to challenge this belief system. Haley shares personal reflections on vulnerability and offers reflection prompts for listeners to consider their own experiences with independence and support.

#hyperindependence #mentalhealth #vulnerability #self-sufficiency #emotionalsupport #psychotherapy #personalgrowth #resilience #attachmentwounds #selfdiscovery

Most of us crave connection but instinctively pull away when vulnerability hits. Why does intimacy sometimes feel like a threat — and how can understanding your nervous system help you finally bridge the gap?

In this episode of Swearing is Allowed, Haley Veronyak, a psychotherapist with personal and professional experience, reveals how your brain's patterns of avoiding closeness are often protective, not flawed. You’ll discover how conflicting feelings—wanting support but fearing rejection—are normal, and how your body memorizes risks based on past experiences. Haley breaks down the subtle ways this subconscious safety mechanism manifests, from pulling away in healthy relationships to feeling annoyed when someone checks in. She shares powerful insights on how your nervous system learns these patterns and how, as an adult, you can gently rewire them without shame or pressure.

Key topics covered include:

• The duality of craving and avoiding connection, and why your feelings can be contradictory at once
• The role of neurobiological patterns in perceived threats of closeness
• Why logical knowing that connection is essential isn’t enough to change emotional responses
• Practical strategies for fostering internal safety: starting with yourself before trusting others
• How to practice gradual vulnerability—sharing in layers and setting boundaries without guilt or shame

If you've ever felt stuck in self-protection mode, this episode offers a fresh perspective: your avoidance isn’t a flaw — it’s a survival strategy that can be reworked. Haley shares relatable stories and simple journal prompts to help you identify what your nervous system is really telling you. Whether you're battling shame over your fears or trying to build authentic connections, understanding your body's wisdom is the first step toward change.

Perfect for anyone navigating intimacy anxiety, emotional avoidance, or simply longing for genuine closeness, this episode empowers you to honor your nervous system and start rewiring your relationship with vulnerability. Remember: discomfort doesn’t mean danger. It just means you’re growing.

If you’re ready to break free from old patterns and create safer, more authentic relationships, tune in now. Your journey to trust begins here.

A year-end recap of the core nervous system concepts we explored in 2025! From the four states and trauma responses to fear, control, rest tolerance, capacity, and what actually regulates the body.

If you’re new here, this episode catches you up. If you’ve been listening all year, it helps everything click. Your nervous system wasn’t failing, it's adapting.

This episode reframes what “healing” is supposed to look like. If your year felt slow, heavy, or nothing like the transformation you hoped for, you’ll learn how growth often happens quietly; in boundaries held, spirals interrupted, and clarity that arrives late. A grounded reminder that you’re not behind; you’ve been changing in ways you might not have noticed yet.

Follow @SwearingisAllowed on Instagram for updates, to submit your listener question and more!

In this episode of "Swearing is Allowed," host Haley Veronyak delves into the unique pressures of December, exploring why the end of the year often feels overwhelming. Haley discusses the myth of "finishing strong" and how our bodies naturally signal the need for rest and reflection. She offers insights into distinguishing between burnout and natural depletion, emphasizing the importance of listening to our bodies and respecting our limits. Tune in for a refreshing perspective on embracing the end of the year with honesty and self-compassion.

Join host Haley Veronyak, RP, in a deeply moving episode of Swearing is Allowed as she explores the themes of grief and gratitude with meditation coach Melissa Loyer. Discover how Melissa transformed her life through mindfulness, overcoming anxiety and depression, and learn about the power of meditation in healing. This episode touches on sensitive topics such as suicidal ideation and childhood abuse, so please listen with care. If you or someone you know needs support, remember you can call or text 988 in the US and Canada for help. Tune in for an authentic conversation about healing, vulnerability, and finding peace within.

Work with Melissa https://www.balancemeditation.ca/

Follow her on instagram @balance_meditation_coaching

Understanding and Embracing Anger in Grief | Swearing is Allowed Podcast

In this episode of Swearing is Allowed, host Haley Veronyak addresses the complex emotion of anger, especially in the context of grief. She discusses how anger, often suppressed and misunderstood, can serve as a significant part of the healing process. The podcast explores the importance of recognizing and safely expressing anger, its physiological impact, and how it can signal unmet needs and boundaries. Haley also provides practical steps for managing anger without harm and answers a listener's question about distinguishing healthy anger from overreactions. Tune in to reclaim your anger as a vital, informative emotion essential for healing.

00:00 Introduction and Overview
00:15 Understanding Anger in Grief
02:39 The Physiology of Anger
04:01 Healthy Expression of Anger
06:05 Personal Reflections on Anger
07:15 Listener Q&A: Healthy vs. Unhealthy Anger
08:16 Weekly Reflections and Closing Thoughts
09:29 Podcast Disclaimer