Valentine’s Day

As an elementary age child, I remember making Valentine’s Day mailboxes out of Kleenex boxes. It was fun to give and receive valentine messages along with special treats like candies and pencils.

Super Bowl Sunday

I’ll admit it. I am not a huge football fan, but for some reason, I get excited about the Super Bowl. Whether it is cheering on your favorite team, watching the commercials, enjoying the half-time show, or eating your favorite munchies, there are a number of great reasons why the super-bowl-matters. Did you know that there are actually mental health benefits of being a diehard-sports-fan? In addition there are some great social aspects. Check out these five awesome benefits:

First Time in Therapy

If you are considering therapy for the first time, good for you! I am excited that you are contemplating therapy as your next step for the New Year. Seeking therapy for the first time is an important decision and there are some important things to take into consideration. Consider what you are seeking from a mental health provider. When it comes to mental health, you do not need to go through difficult times alone. Therapists comes from a variety of educational backgrounds, range in clinical experience and licensure, vary in theoretical orientations, approaches, and specialty.

When to Let Go: Releasing the Past from the Present

The past is an important part of who we are. Our early upbringing, childhood memories, school experiences, first sexual encounters, relationships, and key decisions that shape our present self. Do you ever feel as if there are aspects of your past that are holding you back to being fully present?

Mental Illness Awareness Week

Sunday October 3rd to Saturday, October 9th is Mental-Illness-Awareness-Week.

Did you know that 1 in 5 U.S. adults and 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental illness each year?

For the 1 in 20 adults that experience a serious mental illness each year, less than two-thirds get treatment. Access to quality care is often a barrier.

Gabby Petito

Murder mysteries. Missing persons. Unsolved Cases. There is something that pulls us into these stories–the twists, turns, and plot changes. Finding out the truth can be shocking.

Clinician Perspective: What Makes CARE Counseling Different

As someone who has previously worked in a corporate business setting, the non-profit world, and a community mental health clinic, I have been exposed to a variety of work cultures. I have seen how the work culture directly impacts mental health, for better and for worse.

What is Relapse and What Does it Mean?

Relapse is the recurrence and worsening of a condition that has previously improved. For individuals who are in recovery, relapse and even multiple relapses are common. Due to the addictive and chronic nature of drug and alcohol dependence, there is not a quick and easy “cure” but rather an ongoing journey of recovery.

You Are Not a Failure: When Relapse Occurs

Keeping in mind that relapse is common, it is so important to remain focused on recovery after a relapse.

When relapse occurs during the treatment of substance use disorders, it is an indication that additional support is needed. You are not a failure.

How to Talk About Recovery (If YOU Want)

There is incredible power in sharing one’s story. There are various characters that are part of story. The settings and plot change. There is a beginning, middle, and end as well as elements of conflict and resolution.