Articles
Building Toward Self-Trust: A Path of Therapeutic Growth
Many of us begin therapy with the hope of feeling more confident. It’s a very natural desire — to feel steady, capable, and less ruled by self-doubt. And…confidence doesn’t usually come first. Often, what we call confidence is a mask we’ve learned to wear when we don’t feel safe inside. True therapeutic growth builds differently. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs reminds us that self-actualization only becomes possible once our basic needs are secure. The path toward emotional healing follows a similar…
Managing Political Situations
A study published by the AP- NORC Center for Public Affairs Research at the University of Chicago reported that 65 percent of adults need to limit their media consumption on the government and politics due to overload or fatigue. AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. “Most adults feel the need to limit political news consumption due to fatigue and information overload” (December 2024). But how can we continue to stay informed on present day issues happening in our country and…
Parents, Teens and Mental Health
As a mental health professional, I have worked with families, teens and young adults for over a decade. One thing that I repeatedly see is the power struggle parents have with their children. More specifically, about their mental health treatment. It’s common to have a parent call me to either get their child into the Adolescent IOP or into individual therapy to help their child who is maybe self-harming or struggling with suicidal thoughts and impulsivity only to have their…
Setting Boundaries for Mental Wellness: Why Saying “No” Matters
In today’s world of constant demands, blurred work-life lines, and social obligations, setting healthy boundaries has become essential for protecting mental health. Whether it’s in our relationships, work environments, or even with ourselves, boundaries are the invisible lines that define what is acceptable, tolerable, and sustainable. Without them, emotional exhaustion, resentment, and anxiety can quickly set in. Why Boundaries Matter Boundaries are not about building walls; they are about creating clear, respectful guidelines for how we interact with the world…
Breaking the Cycle: Reducing Screen Time and Boosting Mental Health
Summer provides us with longer days and can give us the opportunity to re-evaluate habits that may no longer serve us, especially those linked to mental health. One of the most pervasive culprits? Excessive screen time. Whether it’s doomscrolling through a social media platform, playing on new apps, or defaulting to Netflix after work, screen time has a way of numbing stress while simultaneously increasing it. But it’s not just about the hours spent; it’s the opportunity cost. Time on…
Maintaining Mental Wellness & Momentum Throughout Summer
Summer break is often seen as a time to relax, recharge, and enjoy a slower pace of life. But for many, it can also bring unexpected challenges—like a lack of structure, feelings of isolation, or loss of motivation. Whether you’re a student, teacher, professional, or caregiver, maintaining your mental health and personal momentum during the summer months can help you return to the fall feeling energized and grounded. Summer break can often feel mentally disruptive. While time off is important,…