The Real Deal on ADHD: Busting Myths and Embracing Realities
If you’ve been on any social media platform in the past year, you’ve probably seen something about ADHD. In fact, it seems like we are talking about ADHD today more than ever. But what really is ADHD? Is it even a real disorder? And how has it gone from taboo to a trending topic?
As a mental health therapist, I've encountered numerous misconceptions about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These myths often contribute to stigma and misunderstanding surrounding this condition, which creates a large barrier for those in need of support. In this post, we'll debunk some of these myths and shed light on the facts about ADHD.
Exploring Empathy: Build Stronger Connections and Transform Your Relationships
Have you ever desired a deeper connection with someone in your life? Have you ever uttered the words, 'I just don’t understand them,' or experienced the frustration of feeling misunderstood? If you found yourself nodding in agreement, this article is for you. Join me on this insightful journey as we dive into the transformative power of empathy. Your path to stronger, more meaningful connections begins here—read on to discover more.
5 Strategies for Self-Love this Valentine’s Day and Beyond from a Christian Counselor
Take a minute and think about the longest relationship you’ve ever had. Who comes to mind? For some, it might be a parent or sibling, while for others their relationship with a friend, significant other or spouse might enter their thoughts. While many of these relationships can span years or decades, the longest relationship you will truly ever have is with yourself.
New Year, New Habits
The new year brings with it the promise of new opportunity and invites us to set our intention towards growth. However, the classic resolution paradigm can be problematic for our sense of self. If we are only motivated by achieved outcomes, we internalize a sense of failure when we fall short of those desired outcomes. And if we are being honest with ourselves, how many of those new year’s resolutions actually materialize? Having goals is a good and healthy way to start the year, but when are are outcome driven, we miss out on celebrating the growth we experience by working hard and creating a lifestyle around prioritizing something that is good for us. As people of faith, we know that God is at work in the struggles of our lives to produce spiritual fruit. If we are only focused on measurable outcomes and weigh our sense of accomplishment against those declared numbers or goals, we miss God’s work in the struggle towards growth.
7 Practical Tips for Getting the Most out of Therapy This Year
Are you currently in therapy and wondering how to make the most out of your investment this year? Or perhaps you are considering restarting or trying out therapy in 2024. Wherever you find yourself in your mental health journey, this article is for you!
Lights and Loss: A Guide to Grieving Through the Holidays
Have you recently experienced loss and are now wondering how to get through the holiday season? Grief during the holidays can cast a long and challenging shadow. As a mental health counselor, I understand that the festive cheer around us may not reflect the internal struggles many individuals face. The pressure to be joyful can intensify feelings of loss and longing. In this guide, we explore a roadmap through the complex terrain of grief during the holidays, offering insights and strategies to navigate this emotional journey.
Unwrapping Grief: Understanding Grief’s Impact on the Holidays
Have you ever wondered why grief seems to cast a unique shadow during the holiday season? This article unwraps the complexities of grief, offering insights into the intricate dance between grief and the holiday spirit.
The Practice of Thanksgiving: Real Talk about Gratitude and Mental Health with a Christian Therapist
The Thanksgiving feast ushers in the holiday season, reminding us that this special time of year has arrived! These months are marked by both intense consumption and, hopefully, thoughtful contemplation. Favorite meals are enjoyed, black Friday deals are purchased, programs are planned, miles are traveled and somewhere in the midst of all of that, Thanksgiving reminds us to search for reasons to be grateful. For many, this is a welcome exercise, but for others, gratitude can feel elusive. So, why is gratitude so important, and how can we prioritize it, regardless of our circumstances?
Beyond Conflict: 10 Surprising Benefits of Christian Couples Counseling
Relationships are the cornerstone of our emotional well-being, yet even the most loving partnerships encounter obstacles. Whether you're newlyweds navigating the complexities of married life or a long-term couple facing unexpected challenges, couples therapy can provide you and your partner with the right tools and support you need to thrive!
How to Prioritize your Mental Health During the Holidays
If you have entered a Target in the past few weeks, you are aware that the holidays have arrived! The season of snowflakes and stress is here! As a parent to young children, I am acutely aware that the demands on me during this time of year are exceptionally high. There are gifts to purchase, pageants to practice for, parties to attend, programs to support, and opportunities to volunteer! In the midst of our demanding holiday schedule, we also want to make meaningful memories and celebrate the birth of our Savior in a tangible way. It really can feel like a lot of pressure to touch all of the bases and steward every opportunity well. For many, this season can also be an emotional hot bed as we navigate more time with extended family and balance everyone’s expectations. Here are some tips to help set the tone for a peaceful holiday season:
Premarital Counseling: Is it Worth the Investment?
Marriage is such a gift, but it is also a challenge at times. Premarital counseling is an investment in the future of your relationship and can help set the foundation for a healthy relationship for years to come. A Christian counselor explains why premarital counseling is worth the investment!
Empowering Tips for First Responder Spouses Experiencing Loneliness
First responders and their spouses experience unique stressors and struggles. In this blog post, Nichole shares some practical tips for managing your mental health as the spouse of a first responder.
Caring for your teens: How to know when they need counseling
Teenagers are struggling more than ever! Here is some helpful information about how to know when they need professional counseling.
Trauma & Faith: EMDR for the Christian Client
Christians suffer trauma at the same rate as other people. EMDR therapy is an effective treatment for reducing the distress associated with traumatic stress. Find a faith-based therapist who is trained in EMDR today!
Pastor’s Corner: When should you refer to a professional counselor?
A helpful resource for Pastors to help you discern when it is best to refer out to a professional counselor.
Finding the One: 8 tips to help you find the right faith-based counselor for you
Finding the right faith-based therapist for you can be a daunting task! Here are 8 tips to help you make a wise decision as you seek out professional counseling services.
Calm Down: Five practices for reducing stress and anxiety from a Christian Counselor
Calm Down: A Christian mental health counselor shares five practices for reducing stress and anxiety.
SWEET DREAMS: How to Support your Mental Health by Prioritizing Sleep
Prioritizing sleep is one of the most important things you can do to support your mental health. Sleep hygiene comes up in therapy regularly, so here are my best tips for getting enough high quality sleep.