The more I looked into the magic mirror, the more I felt human, the more I told my children about the horrible curse I had been under, the more I sought their trust. If they expressed fear or hurt from the past, I would say, “I was sick. I’m not doing that now.” Nothing was truly resolved by my declarations as they looked at my outstretched hand with its dark, three inch, razor sharp claws. “I know.” They would respond, and the conversation would end. They would walk away fro

Stabilization comes before healing begins. The nervous system must learn safety, regulation, and how to complete the stress cycle to regain calm and focus.

Why It Takes Time There is still a limited amount of precise, long-term research on stepfamilies, particularly when it comes to identifying exactly which parenting behaviors lead to the best outcomes for children. Much of what we know is based on patterns rather than clear cause-and-effect conclusions. Even so, the research consistently points to one reality: stepfamily formation is a complex transition for both parents and children. Children in stepfamilies are not simply ad

There is a notable limitation in research when it comes to how parents should talk to children during divorce. While decades of studies document outcomes for children following divorce, far fewer isolate the impact of specific communication patterns. This leaves parents navigating one of the most emotionally complex transitions in family life with guidance that is often general rather than precise or research informed. What the research does show consistently is that childr

When was the last time you checked in with yourself? Not just a quick "How are you?" but a real, deep check-in? Life can get overwhelming, and sometimes, we carry burdens that feel too heavy to bear alone. That’s where mental health support steps in, offering a lifeline and a path toward healing. Today, I want to share with you why exploring the benefits of mental health is so important and how seeking help can transform your life in ways you might not expect. The Benefits of

Why Couples Relationship Workshops Matter When you think about it, relationships are complex. They involve emotions, habits, communication styles, and sometimes unresolved past issues. It’s easy to get caught up in daily life and forget to nurture the bond you share. That’s where couples relationship workshops come in. These workshops provide a safe space to explore your relationship dynamics with guidance from professionals. What makes these workshops so effective? They offe

Research shows counseling interns have a measurable, positive impact on their clients.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your thoughts or emotions and wondered if talking to someone might help? I know I have. Sometimes, life throws challenges our way that feel too heavy to carry alone. That’s where emotional counseling steps in - a supportive space where you can explore your feelings, gain clarity, and find new ways to cope. Today, I want to share with you the many benefits of emotional counseling and how it can transform your life, whether you’re navigating pe

When life feels overwhelming, and traditional talk therapy doesn’t quite hit the mark, have you ever wondered if there might be other ways to heal? In this post, I’ll walk you through some inspiring alternative mental health therapies, share insights about the educational Gottman Couple’s Workshops, and offer practical tips to help you find what resonates with you or your loved ones. Ready to explore? Why Consider Alternative Mental Health Therapies? Sometimes, traditional th

When you’ve lived through trauma, it’s natural to want relief fast. The promise of “8 sessions to freedom” sounds tempting—especially when your mind feels stuck in a loop of memories and emotions. Lately, EMDR has become the celebrity of trauma therapist, showing up in podcasts, therapist bios, and TikTok therapy talk. But just because something is popular doesn’t mean it’s the only option—or even the best one for everyone. What actually matters isn’t how fast a therapy work

A growing body of research shows that being outdoors reduces depression and anxiety, improves resilience and help people connect with nature and each other.

Moral injury and religious or spiritual trauma often go hand in hand. ACT therapy can help heal these wounds.

I don't have a green thumb, but I love gardening. It's a bit masochistic, but I can't stop growing things because when my plants somehow manage to survive, the foods tastes a million times better than anything I could buy in the store. In addition to tasting better, the food I grow has a higher nutritional content! Remember, vitamins have a huge impact on our mood, and they're cheaper than therapy. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a small balcony, gardening can be a p

When life feels overwhelming, and emotions run high, seeking support is a brave and important step. But what if traditional therapy isn’t the right fit for you? Maybe the thought of sitting in a therapist’s office feels intimidating, or perhaps you’re looking for something more flexible, affordable, or tailored to your unique needs. I’ve been there, and I want to share some insights about alternative therapy options that might resonate with you. Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-a

Trauma must be treated in the body before the heart and mind can heal.

"You're intimidating as hell, and you need to stop it." The problem is, I wasn't doing anything! What was my therapist talking about?

Discover how sharing your family’s history can help teens manage stress, boost self-esteem, and face the future with confidence.

When mental health symptoms are nutrient deficiencies in disguise.

How we understand our sexuality: orientation, identity and the freedom to change and define ourselves.

Caring deeply is not codependency. Losing yourself in the process might be.