Preparing and Managing Transitions Have you noticed the shift? A subtle change that marks the departure of summer? Is it the breeze being slightly cooler or is the absence of children playing outside as they resumed their scholastic obligations? For better or worse, school is back in session. For students, this can be a big change compared to laxer curfews … Read More
Down and Out When we find ourselves in low mood states, when we’re stressed, tired, and hopeless, it can be extra brutal to encounter thoughts kicking us when we are down. Blaming us. Angry and hurt potentially that we are in this position to begin with. In certain situations, a compassionate friend might just be what is needed to support … Read More
Change has been on my mind, lately. From supporting my clients exercise their strategies for it, to the societal change that happens on a daily basis. How much the world seems to get a little bit farther from the times spent in our youth. With change comes adaptation. Are you old enough to remember life before the internet boom? When … Read More
As a clinician 8 years removed from graduate school, I have encouraged, and more than likely, annoyed a lot of people with the concept of affirmations. Positive affirmations to be precise. Because, honestly, what’s not to love about encouraging ourselves, reminding ourselves that we are capable, resilient, and worthy of love! Well, if those already are difficult words to … Read More
Understanding the difference between anxiety vs. panic attack can make a big difference in how you approach your mental health or that of someone who is experience one or both of these. The following article covers the differences and why they happen. The Experience of Anxiety Anxiety while functional, can be rather uncomfortable. In our physical bodies, we may … Read More
Is self-compassion good or bad? If asked this question, most people would agree that self-compassion is a positive thing. It’s also likely that the majority of those people have spent their lives cultivating a harsh inner self-critic and readily indulge thoughts such as “I made such a stupid mistake, people must think I’m an idiot” or “I’m not a good parent/friend/partner/employee…why is it … Read More
by Carolyn Moriarty, LCPC As children, one of the first things we learn is how to be kind to others. A strong emphasis is placed on helping, sharing and what it means to be a good friend—unarguably imperative qualities to instill at a young age. However, Western culture places far less importance on showing that same kindness to ourselves—the thought … Read More
The holiday season is just around the corner, bringing along with it the social pressure to feel jolly and relaxed. For many of us, especially those prone to anxiety, this can seem nearly impossible given that the holidays are inextricably woven with excessive commitments, financial stress and dealing with “difficult” relatives. The pursuit of happiness can indeed turn into … Read More
