Reparenting Yourself After a Critical Filipino Upbringing

by Pinoy Therapy Apr 15, 2026 Read time: 3 minutes Understanding ‘Tough Love’ in Filipino Households Many of us grew up with “Walang hingi-an, puro bigayan” or the dreaded “Kumpara kay cousin…” In Filipino culture, respect (po/opo) and obedience are often non-negotiable. While these come from…

Breaking the “Tiisin Mo Na Lang” Mindset: Choosing Self-Respect Over Endurance

by Pinoy Therapy Mar 19, 2026 Read time: 3 minutes What Does “Tiisin Mo Na Lang” Really Teach Us? “Tiisin mo na lang” is a phrase many Filipinos grow up hearing. It’s often said with good intentions; encouraging patience, sacrifice, and resilience. But over time, this…

Growing Up Compared: Filipino Sibling Comparison and Adult Self-Worth

by Pinoy Therapy Feb 22, 2026 Read time: 4 minutes “Bakit si ate mo kaya niya?”“Your cousin is already a nurse.”“Look at our neighbour’s son – top of his class.” For many Filipinos, comparison is a familiar soundtrack to childhood. Whether spoken gently or sharply, being…