Most children are brought up to be kind and respectful of other people. They are taught to consider others’ feelings and help those in need. But when it comes to taking care of themselves, many people lack the ability to put their own needs first.To some, the concept of self-care is as foreign as the language and customs of far...[ read more ]
It’s a new year and many of us have committed to making changes that will allow our best selves to shine through. And in most instances, we know exactly how to get the help we need to facilitate this change.For instance, if we want to get into good physical shape, we know to head to our local gym and get...[ read more ]
Human beings have a need for social connection. It stems from our ancestors needing to stick together to stay alive. Back in the day, those individuals who strayed from the group had a harder time surviving the elements and not starving to death.While it is far safer to be an individual these days, that doesn’t mean it is healthy for...[ read more ]
If you are someone who has been experiencing depression, you may recognize that you need help, but you may be confused as to what therapies will work best for you. In today’s world, where there seems to be a pill to treat pretty much everything, many people assume that a prescribed antidepressant is the best option for them. In fact,...[ read more ]
If you’re like most people, you are doing your best to stay calm during COVID-19 pandemic. But that can feel incredibly difficult at times. When not worrying about friends and loved one’s health, there’s also the conflicting information provided by the media and the economic ramifications of the virus that have people on edge.Signs of Emotional Distress and 6 Ways...[ read more ]
By Spencer Hinckley, CSW What is trust? Longtime relationship researcher Dr. John Gottman believes trust in a relationship requires two things: 1) Transparency, or a belief that one sees the true reality of their partner, and 2) The feeling that one's partner is there for them in time of need.* In other words, partners must be able to answer yes when asked “Are you truthful?” and...[ read more ]
I just saw the new Disney movie, Frozen. Have you seen it? It has received high praise this year, and rightly so. It’s a beautiful story and very well-done. There were a number of elements in the story that I found very meaningful, though much of that is probably because I am a therapist and hopelessly trapped in that mindset...[ read more ]
By Rick Rawlins, LCSW (Click HERE for a complete bio) Recently there has been increased media attention and awareness given to the topic of suicide. Too often the subject of suicide causes people to feel uncomfortable and not want to discuss it. Yet when someone is suffering and considering suicide, talking about it is exactly what is needed. Suicide occurs in...[ read more ]
If you're just joining this series now, be sure to check out the last 4 posts in the parenting series. Hurt, Anger, and Fear. Feeling these emotions isn't the problem. And if they hit you because of life stressors or pressure, then by all means, let your kids see you show them-- within careful limits and in healthy ways. The...[ read more ]
If you missed the first 3 parts of this parenting series, make sure to click HERE, HERE, and HERE. A lot of parents get so tired from their busy lives that they unintenionally operate in either a "superficial happy" state, or in anger (which is often just a way of hiding their underlying sense of feeling overwhelmed). We don't do...[ read more ]