Ep.16 When Holidays Feel Hard: A Trauma-Informed Look at Holiday Stress with Dr. Vassilia Binensztok

In this episode of Bonded, Lizzie sits down with trauma therapist and author Dr. Vassilia Binensztok for a deeply compassionate conversation about why the holiday season can stir up so many emotional and relational challenges—and how you can genuinely support yourself through it.

Triggers around the holidays are incredibly common and often tied to old attachment patterns or childhood experiences, sometimes operating unconsciously. The first step toward healing is awareness: noticing the physical cues, emotional shifts, and reactive patterns that show up during this time of year. And because the holidays can pull on so many internal threads, boundaries—both internal and external—become essential tools for protecting your energy and staying grounded.

Whether it’s family conflict, old attachment wounds, grief, or the pressure to “feel festive,” this episode offers grounding, validating guidance for anyone who finds this season difficult.

In This Episode, We Explore:

• Nervous system signs that your body is preparing for stress—and how to recognize them early
• Practical strategies for building regulation and capacity during emotionally charged moments
• How mindfulness and self-compassion help interrupt shame and “should” thinking
• Creative ways to reclaim the holidays and make them your own—even if past memories are painful
• How to talk with partners and loved ones about boundaries, expectations, and emotional needs during this season

About Our Guest

Dr. Vassilia Binensztok is a psychotherapist, trauma expert, writer, and founder of a group practice supporting clients across the lifespan. She specializes in complex trauma, relational wounds, anxiety, and somatic work—and brings a grounded, heartfelt approach to healing.

Private Practice: https://www.junocounseling.com/about-us/about-dr-binensztok

Surviving and Savoring Thanksgiving: https://citylifestyle.com/articles/surviving-and-savoring-thanksgiving