I was talking to my Mom several years ago, and we were reflecting on how children learn things. For example, she said that she knows she learned about geography in school and she can recall certain things about it but she doesn’t really remember specifically learning those things. Reading might be a little different in …
“Depression” as a broad topic is somewhat familiar in our culture for a variety of reasons. We know the telltale signs: feeling “sad/empty/hopeless” most of the day nearly every day, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, difficulty thinking or concentrating, fatigue, changes in sleep, and so on. What can sometimes catch people off guard …
What is Mindfulness? The New Oxford American Dictionary defines “Mindfulness” as “A mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, used as a therapeutic technique.” Mindfulness carries a range of benefits including reduced anxiety, improved memory and focus, ability to …
Intrusive thoughts are unwelcome and often distressing mental images or ideas that intrude into our awareness without invitation. They can be disturbing, irrational, or even violent, leaving us questioning our own sanity. Intrusive thoughts often involve content that goes against your personal values, beliefs, or moral code. Since children are learning who they are, what …
Unwanted Thoughts: When Kids Have Intrusive Thoughts and How to Help Them Read More »
Dealing with intrusive thoughts can be challenging and leave you feeling confused and exhausted. Especially if you’re trying to manage them on your own, and not talk about them. A favorite house plant (it does equally as well as an outdoor plant!) is the Zebrina Pendula. It’s a plant that does best when you break …
Unraveling the Mind: 10 Things That Will Help with Intrusive Thoughts Read More »
Defining Intrusive Thoughts Ask any therapist why they decided to enter the field. You will probably hear something along the lines of wanting to understand behavior or emotions or being interested in the intricacies of the human mind. Sometimes our minds can feel like a rollercoaster of thoughts, emotions, and, occasionally, those thoughts can be …
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What is Attachment Theory and How it Can Help You Heal Attachment theory is a framework that describes the dynamics of relationships between individuals, especially children and their primary caregivers. John Bowlby began studying attachment in the 1950’s and was further studied by Mary Ainsworth. According to Attachment Theory, children develop a specific attachment style …
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I have a friend who is in therapy and when she first started, she sent me memes about how she was going to do so great in therapy, and her therapist was going to be very impressed. What I appreciated about my friend sending these memes, other than having a good laugh, is that I …
So, you found a therapist who you think might be right for you. What questions should you ask to make sure they are the right fit for your needs? What is appropriate to say or not say during the initial phone consultation? When you finally decide to call a therapist, you most likely are feeling …
Questions to Ask a Therapist, Counselor or Psychologist Read More »
I am so happy that many people have decided to get mental health counseling but I also know that so many therapists are booked right now. It’s been a tough spot for many of me and the counselors I know right now. We’re trying to find the right balance for our own time and energy …