Lately, in my work with people across North and South Carolina, there’s been a recurring theme. That is, the quiet anxiety and fear that can come from no longer believing in the same religion you were raised in.

For many of my clients, this isn’t a sudden shift or a matter of a “defining moment.” It’s something that unfolds over time, often beginning in early adulthood. What once felt normal now feels unfamiliar. Questions start to surface. Values start to change. Beliefs that were once followed without hesitation feel artificial, or maybe plain wrong. 

“I was raised to believe this… but I’m not sure I do anymore.”

What do you think of when you hear the word family? Do you think of your brothers and sisters, parents, uncles, and aunts? Or do you think of some of your closest friends, neighbors, or colleagues? For some, the word family is no longer restricted to biological ties or legal connections and instead includes the close-knit circle of friends and loved ones we bring into our lives. These people, who truly get us, stand by us, and fill spaces traditional family might not always reach are who we call “chosen family.”

The holiday season often comes with a set of traditions and rituals that we've grown up with. You might even say these traditions are what make the holidays special.

One thing’s important though. It's essential to recognize that we can create our own holiday traditions.

The holidays are a time of joy and celebration, an opportunity to spend time with loved ones far and near. While many of us cherish our family and friends, it can also cause us a great deal of anxiety and tension.