Magda Janaszek Counselling

28/10/2025

As a counsellor working with young people, I often hear from parents who feel worried, frustrated, or unsure how to handle their teenager’s interest in va**ng. It’s a topic that comes up more and more in therapy — and one that can easily create tension at home.

In my latest blog, I explore why va**ng is so appealing to teens, what peer pressure and “fitting in” really mean for them, and how parents can respond with understanding and calm rather than conflict.

https://www.magdacounselling.co.uk/post/when-your-teenager-wants-to-vape-how-to-talk-understand-and-support-them

23/03/2025

🌸 Let’s Talk About Young People & Makeup 💄

It’s completely natural for children and teens to become curious about makeup — especially as they see friends, older siblings, or influencers experimenting with it. For many young people, it’s not just about appearance — it’s about self-expression, identity, and wanting to feel part of something.

💬 But for parents, it can bring up mixed feelings — concern about them growing up too fast, setting boundaries, or simply wondering what’s too much, too soon.

If you’ve found yourself saying “Not yet” and feeling unsure or even guilty about it — you’re not alone. Many parents are in the same boat, trying to find the right balance between allowing freedom and offering guidance.

💡 I’ve put together a few gentle, respectful ways you can say no (for now) to makeup — in a way that still makes your child feel heard, valued, and loved.

Because the truth is — you can hold boundaries and nurture their self-esteem at the same time.

You’re doing an amazing job, and these conversations — even the tricky ones — are part of building trust and confidence in your child.

13/02/2025

🌸 Join Us for a Special Open Day at Chestnut Health Clinic! 🌸

💙 Counselling & Women’s Health Open Day 💙

We’re excited to invite you to a day dedicated to mental, emotional, and physical well-being at Chestnut Health Clinic!

✨ Meet the Counsellor – Discover how therapy can support your emotional and mental health in a warm, welcoming space. Whether you're facing stress, anxiety, or just need someone to talk to, this is a great opportunity to learn more.

🌿 Women’s Health & Well-being Talk – Join us for insightful discussions on:
✔️ Self-care & stress management
✔️ Emotional resilience & mental wellness
✔️ Menopause & hormonal balance
✔️ Incontinence & pelvic health
✔️ Thermal screening for early health insights

Let’s talk, learn, and empower each other towards better health and well-being. Everyone is welcome! 💙

06/02/2025

"When Life Feels Like Too Much… Here’s How to Reset"

Ever stare at your to-do list and feel completely stuck? Whether you're a parent juggling endless tasks, a business owner drowning in responsibilities, or just trying to keep life together—overwhelm is real.

Here’s how to reset when everything feels like too much:

✨ Pause & breathe – A few deep breaths can work wonders.
✨ Start small – Wash a dish, make the bed, send one email. Tiny wins build momentum.
✨ Brain-dump & prioritize – Write it all down, then tackle what’s urgent first.
✨ One thing at a time – No multitasking, just focused effort in small bursts.
✨ Use your senses – Listen to music, step outside, splash cold water on your face.
✨ Be kind to yourself – Progress is progress, even if it’s slow.

You don’t have to do it all today. Just take the next small step. 💙

We’ve all been there—that moment when the to-do list is longer than the hours in the day, and instead of making progress, you find yourself frozen, unsure where to even start. Maybe you’re a business owner juggling deadlines, a parent trying to keep up with school runs and laundry, or a single...

05/02/2025

Intrusive thoughts are unwanted, distressing thoughts that seem to appear out of nowhere. They can be about anything—worries, fears, or even irrational scenarios—but having them does not mean they are true or that you will act on them. Everyone experiences intrusive thoughts at times, but when they become overwhelming, they can affect mental well-being.

How to Manage Intrusive Thoughts:
1️⃣ Recognize & Accept – Understand that intrusive thoughts are normal and don’t define who you are. Fighting them often makes them stronger.

2️⃣ Label Them as ‘Just Thoughts’ – Remind yourself: This is just a thought, not reality. You don’t have to give it meaning.

3️⃣ Practice Mindfulness – Stay present by focusing on your breath, your surroundings, or grounding techniques. This helps reduce over-identifying with thoughts.

4️⃣ Redirect Your Attention – Engage in something productive or enjoyable, like a hobby, a walk, or talking to a friend. Shifting focus can break the cycle.

5️⃣ Challenge & Reframe – Ask yourself: Is this thought based on facts? Is there any real evidence for it? Reframe it into a more balanced, rational perspective.

6️⃣ Seek Support – If intrusive thoughts are persistent and distressing, talking to a counsellor can provide tools and support to help manage them.

💙 You are not your thoughts. With the right strategies, you can reduce their power over you. If they’re affecting your daily life, reach out—help is available. 😊

28/11/2024

Here are four tips to help you navigate divorce with resilience and clarity:

Prioritize Self-Care
Take care of your emotional and physical health. Set aside time to rest, eat nourishing meals, and engage in activities that bring you comfort or joy. Even small moments of self-care can help ground you during stressful times.

Seek Professional Support
Talking to a counsellor or therapist can help you process emotions and build coping strategies. A legal advisor can also help you understand your rights and make informed decisions. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance—it’s a sign of strength.

Focus on Open Communication
If children or shared responsibilities are involved, strive for respectful and clear communication with your ex-partner. Use tools like co-parenting apps or mediation services to make the process smoother.

Take Things One Step at a Time
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the big picture, but try breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Celebrate progress, no matter how small, and remember that healing takes time.

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and seeking support can make a world of difference. Divorce may feel like the end of a chapter, but it can also mark the beginning of a new, brighter phase in your life. 🍀🌞

27/11/2024

Waking up earlier can do wonders for your mental health. Starting your day with a little extra time gives you the space to ease into the day, reducing the feeling of being rushed or overwhelmed. This calm start helps lower stress levels, giving you a clearer, more focused mindset as you move through your tasks.

By waking up earlier, you also set a positive tone for the rest of your day, allowing for time to practice mindfulness, enjoy a peaceful morning routine, or even just enjoy a quiet cup of coffee. The simple act of having those extra minutes in the morning can make a significant difference in how you feel throughout the day, helping you manage stress, increase productivity, and maintain a sense of control. Plus, a consistent sleep schedule and early wake-up time can improve the quality of your sleep, further enhancing your overall well-being.