Most people come to therapy with identified presenting concerns; however, they may not be sure what their specific goals are. That is OK! Your therapist can help summarize that main theme of things that you share and then offer a framework for specific, measurable goals. A process goal and a coping goal is a great place to start if you are struggling with where to begin.
“My needs are not being met” is a common complaint in relationships. You may be experiencing loneliness due to lack of a fulfilling connections with a partner or family, friends, and/ or social connections. Perhaps you are not feeling respected or esteemed by others within your current role and feeling as though you are “not living up to your full potential”. While these needs are stressful, they are compounded when the foundational basics are not met.
No one is immune to experiencing stress, trauma, or other challenging situations that shakes our foundation of safety and security. Reflecting on the last year, many have experienced serious medical and mental health problems or have been impacted by conditions affecting loved ones. Stressors affecting finances and relationships have been prevalent. Suffering is inevitable as it is part of the human condition. Yet during times suffering, there can also be tremendous growth through healing and rebuilding.
Can you think of something who is a bit “pricky”? Maybe their attitude is not very attractive. Perhaps they have been hurting, holding on to bitterness and in turn, pushing away family and friends. Try showing unconditional-positive-regard to demonstrate love and acceptance while also holding onto your own boundaries.
When it is your first time doing something, there are a lot of unknowns. The unknowns can create discomfort and anxiety. Once someone becomes familiar, it can start to feel more comfortable. New relationships can bring up many different emotions and meeting with a therapist is no exception. If you are considering therapy, keep reading…
Care options for mental illness has changed significantly over the centuries but the effects of harmful practices contribute to mistrust and stigma of seeking mental health treatment. The American Psychological Association (APA) which has been in existence since the late 1800s recently issued an apology-for-systemic-racism. The APA acknowledged not only their own role but also the role that psychology has played in systemically causing harm to persons of color over the decades within their policy statement.
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.
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.
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.
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.
