• Contact Now Schedule an Appointment

    316 Park Ave E. | Renville, MN 56284
    700 Cedar Building, Suite 120 | Alexandria, MN 56308
    dr.discher@lifecenterllc.com | 320-329-4357 (HELP)
    Fax: 507-413-6776

    • Facebook
    • LinkedIn
    • Twitter
  • Dr. Wendie Discher

    My WordPress Blog

    • Home
    • About
    • Services Provided
      • Psychological Illness
      • Military Mental health
    • Getting Started
      • FAQs
      • Rates and Insurance
      • Client Forms
      • Appointment Request
    • Resources
      • Military Resources
      • Recent News
      • Mental Health Links
      • Physical Health Links
    • Contact
    • Blog

    3 Types of Boundaries

    December 30, 2025

    You may have heard about the benefits of setting boundaries with family, friends, and coworkers—by communicating your needs and wants, you can boost your self-esteem, prioritize your mental and emotional health, and improve your overall well-being. In the long run, boundaries can also enhance the relationships you have with those around you since they can […]

    Read More

    3 Types of Boundaries

    You may have heard about the benefits of setting boundaries with family, friends, and coworkers—by communicating your needs and wants, you can boost your self-esteem, prioritize your mental and emotional health, and improve your overall well-being. In the long run, boundaries can also enhance the relationships you have with those around you since they can help you feel respected instead of resentful. But did you know that there are numerous types of boundaries? Here are three of the most common:

    1. Physical boundaries – You communicate how you want to be touched and how much personal space you need. For example, you can let a colleague know that you’d rather shake hands instead of hugging or kissing. This doesn’t just apply to your body, either—you can also let your in-laws know that you don’t feel comfortable having them enter your bedroom while they’re babysitting.
    2. Material boundaries – You communicate when you’re willing to lend out money and possessions and how you want them to be treated. For instance, you can let a friend know that you can’t afford to lend them more than $100. Or, you can tell your son that he can only borrow your car if he returns it with a full tank of gas.
    3. Time boundaries – You communicate how you want to use your time. For example, you can tell your boss that you can’t stay past the end of your scheduled workday. Or, you can ask your spouse to refrain from calling and texting while you’re having dinner with friends except in case of an emergency.

    Start Setting Boundaries in Your Life

    If you need help implementing any of the boundaries described above, contact us today and ask to schedule a consultation with one of the skilled therapists on our team. We understand the many benefits that healthy boundaries can offer, and we’ll work with you to identify the steps you’ll need to take to set them in your life.

    Filed Under: boundaries

    Coping with Depression During the Holiday Season

    December 29, 2025

    During this time of year, radio and TV ads would have us believe we should all feel merry and bright. Sadly, that’s not always the case. According to the National Institute of Health, many people experience depression during the holiday season. Some of the most common reasons people experience depression during this time of year are: Financial hardship – […]

    Read More

    Coping with Depression During the Holiday Season

    During this time of year, radio and TV ads would have us believe we should all feel merry and bright. Sadly, that’s not always the case. According to the National Institute of Health, many people experience depression during the holiday season.

    Some of the most common reasons people experience depression during this time of year are:

    • Financial hardship – ‘Tis the season to be jolly, unless your bank account is overdrawn and your credit cards maxed out. Not having a budget to buy loved ones presents, especially our children, can feel devastating.
    • Stress – It’s easy to become overwhelmed from the added stress of shopping, planning and travel. Studies have found this is particularly true for women.
    • Grief and loneliness – Many people feel incredibly lonely during the holidays. Whether it’s from being single, recently divorced, or having just lost a loved one, the holidays are often a reminder of what we don’t have but wish we did.

    If you can relate and are looking for some relief, here are ways you can cope with your depression this holiday season:

    Feel Your Feelings

    If you are grieving a loss, it’s important that you’re honest about your feelings. Your instinct may be to put on a brave face for friends and family, but forcing yourself to be happy for the sake of others will only make matters worse. Sadness and grief are a part of life, no matter the season, and it is 100% okay for you to feel your feelings.

    Give Something Besides Money

    If a lack of finances is the primary source of your mood, look for other ways you can give to others. You can volunteer at a local charity. Are you a good cook? Offer to cook for friends and family. If your talent is writing, write your kids a bedtime story or, if it’s painting, paint a beautiful mural on their wall. At the end of the day, thoughtful gifts from your heart will leave the greatest lasting impression.

    Focus on Self Care

    It’s important that you care for yourself during the holiday season. Eat right, drink filtered water, exercise, and get plenty of rest. While these steps are important for everyone throughout the entire year, they are particularly important for those suffering from depression during the holidays.

    Seek Help

    Depression is nothing to take lightly. If your depression has lingered, is getting worse, or you’re having suicidal thoughts, it’s imperative that you seek help from a qualified mental health professional. They will be able to help you navigate your overwhelming emotions and offer tools to manage symptoms.

    If you’d like to explore treatment options, please get in touch with me. You don’t have to suffer alone. I would be more than happy to speak with you about how I may be able to help.

    Filed Under: Depression

    Coping with the Holidays After Loss

    December 26, 2025

    For many people, the holidays are about spending time with loved ones. But for those who have suffered a recent loss, the holidays can be painful and isolating. Here are some ways you can cope with the holidays after a loss: Recognize You are Not Alone It’s easy to feel as though you are the […]

    Read More

    Coping with the Holidays After Loss

    For many people, the holidays are about spending time with loved ones. But for those who have suffered a recent loss, the holidays can be painful and isolating.

    Here are some ways you can cope with the holidays after a loss:

    Recognize You are Not Alone

    It’s easy to feel as though you are the only one experiencing great pain during the holiday season. Everywhere you turn, people seem to be happy, putting up decorations, buying gifts and making holiday plans. It’s important to recognize the truth right now, and that is that you are not alone. There are people all over the world who have experienced loss, some perhaps very recently.

    Honor Your Pain

    No one expects you to feel joyful and in the holiday mood right now, so don’t feel as though you must pretend for others’ sake. It is very important that you honor whatever emotions you may be experiencing, whether it’s sadness, anger, regret or a combination.

    Take Your Time

    The holidays are usually a busy time for people. There is much to accomplish and many events to host and/or attend. You do not have to keep your normal schedule this year. You simply will not have the mental or emotional stamina for it. So take the time you need. If you don’t feel like attending many (or any) events this year, that is fine. People will understand.

    Help Others in Need

    One of the worst parts about losing a loved one is the feeling that we no longer have any control over our lives. Loss makes us feel helpless. One way to fight this feeling is to help others who are in need. As a bonus, connecting with others who are hurting can often be a salve on our hearts as well.

    When Don’t These Guidelines Apply?

    If you have children, it’s important to understand that they are looking to you right now to know what life will be like from now on. To a child, the loss of a parent or sibling can frighten them terribly. Though you may not at all feel like celebrating the holidays, doing so helps your child know that life does go on and that there is space in your life to feel joy along with sadness.

     

    If you have experienced loss and would like to explore grief counseling, please be in touch. You don’t have to suffer alone.

    Filed Under: Depression, General, Grief

    How to Emotionally Survive a Divorce

    December 25, 2025

    Divorce is often one of the most difficult experiences that a person can go through. In many cases, it requires you to leave your family home, lose contact with couple friends, and miss out on time with your children. And it almost always involves losing someone that you once loved, as well as the future […]

    Read More

    How to Emotionally Survive a Divorce

    Divorce is often one of the most difficult experiences that a person can go through. In many cases, it requires you to leave your family home, lose contact with couple friends, and miss out on time with your children. And it almost always involves losing someone that you once loved, as well as the future you had imagined having together.

    Despite how hard divorce can be, there are steps you can take to protect your mental and emotional health during this stage of your life. You may want to try:

    • Spending time with family and friends
    • Playing a new sport
    • Trying a new hobby
    • Volunteering in your community
    • Journaling
    • Meditating
    • Exercising
    • Spending time outdoors
    • Treating yourself to a massage
    • Attending support group meetings

    Divorce often causes people to feel anxious and depressed, so if you’re having a hard time coping, remind yourself that you’re not alone in feeling that way and that things will eventually get better. Give yourself a break while you recover from your divorce and adjust to your new way of life.

    Consider Speaking to a Therapist

    While leaning on your family and friends can often be very helpful following a divorce, sometimes it’s necessary to seek help from a professional. You’ll be glad to know that the therapists at our practice have extensive experience counseling patients going through the divorce process. We’ll draw on that background to provide you with the compassionate ear and personalized advice you need. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

    Filed Under: divorce

    Addressing Addiction Alongside Your Loved Ones Through Family Counseling

    December 24, 2025

    Substance use doesn’t just impact the person struggling with addiction—it affects everyone in their immediate circle. This is why families in cities across the country are turning to therapy to rebuild trust, communicate openly, and support recovery together. Family counseling creates a structured environment where each member can express their experiences, understand the nature of […]

    Read More

    Addressing Addiction Alongside Your Loved Ones Through Family Counseling

    Substance use doesn’t just impact the person struggling with addiction—it affects everyone in their immediate circle. This is why families in cities across the country are turning to therapy to rebuild trust, communicate openly, and support recovery together. Family counseling creates a structured environment where each member can express their experiences, understand the nature of addiction, and find common ground. 

    The Effect of Addiction on Family

    When substance abuse is involved, family dynamics can shift in unhealthy ways. Codependency, blame, and emotional distance are common. Counseling addresses these patterns by focusing on healthy communication and conflict resolution. It also empowers families to become a more unified support system for their loved one’s healing journey. 

    Family counseling in the context of substance abuse may include topics like:

    • Exploring each person’s role in the recovery process 

    • Educating families about addiction as a disease 

    • Building tools to navigate setbacks and relapse risks 

    • Improving communication to reduce shame and defensiveness 

    • Learning healthy boundaries and emotional regulation 

    Addiction recovery is not a solo journey, and you don’t have to walk it alone. Our providers are compassionate mental health professionals who understand the complexities of addiction within the family unit. Through tailored therapy approaches, the families we serve move from conflict to collaboration, offering support that uplifts rather than divides. Reach out today to schedule your first appointment! Family counseling for addiction at our practice gives each member of the family the opportunity to heal in their own way, building a stronger foundation for lifelong recovery. 

    Filed Under: Addiction, family, substance abuse

    Individual Counseling vs. Group Therapy: Which Is Right for You?

    December 23, 2025

    Finding the right kind of mental health support can feel overwhelming, especially when deciding between individual counseling and group therapy. Both options offer unique benefits depending on your needs, comfort level, and personal goals. In many cases, they can even complement each other as part of a comprehensive care plan.  Ins and Outs of Individual […]

    Read More

    Individual Counseling vs. Group Therapy: Which Is Right for You?

    Finding the right kind of mental health support can feel overwhelming, especially when deciding between individual counseling and group therapy. Both options offer unique benefits depending on your needs, comfort level, and personal goals. In many cases, they can even complement each other as part of a comprehensive care plan. 

    Ins and Outs of Individual Therapy

    Individual counseling provides a one-on-one setting where you can dive into your thoughts, experiences, and challenges with a personal therapist by your side. This format often feels safer for those who are hesitant to open up, new to therapy, or navigating sensitive topics like trauma, identity, or anxiety. 

    But What About Group Therapy?

    Group therapy, on the other hand, brings people with shared concerns together in a supportive, professionally guided environment. The group dynamic fosters connection, reduces isolation, and creates opportunities to learn from others’ experiences. 

    Which Is the Best Fit for You?

    Choosing between individual therapy and group counseling depends on your comfort level, therapy goals, and openness to sharing in different settings. Some individuals may benefit from starting with individual therapy and transitioning into a group when they feel ready. 

    Either Way, You Can Get Started Today

    Both individual and group therapy can play a powerful role in emotional growth and healing. Whether you prefer the focused support of one-on-one sessions or the connection of group experiences, there’s a therapy option designed to help you thrive. Reach out today to learn more about the options we offer! 

    Filed Under: group, mental health, therapy

    Managing Burnout as a Working Professional in 2025

    December 22, 2025

    The fast pace of modern work life continues to take a toll on mental health in 2025. From hybrid schedules and digital fatigue to increasing demands for productivity, many working professionals in a wide range of industries are facing chronic burnout. This prolonged state of physical and emotional exhaustion doesn’t just affect performance—it impacts relationships, […]

    Read More

    Managing Burnout as a Working Professional in 2025

    The fast pace of modern work life continues to take a toll on mental health in 2025. From hybrid schedules and digital fatigue to increasing demands for productivity, many working professionals in a wide range of industries are facing chronic burnout. This prolonged state of physical and emotional exhaustion doesn’t just affect performance—it impacts relationships, self-esteem, and overall well-being. 

    Recognizing the Signs of Burnout

    Burnout often begins with signs that are easy to overlook. You might feel less motivated, dread the start of each workday, or find it difficult to concentrate. Left unaddressed, these symptoms can evolve into anxiety, depression, or even physical health problems. That’s why early awareness and intervention are key. Common signs of burnout include: 

    • Feeling emotionally drained or detached from your work 

    • Struggling to stay motivated or productive 

    • Increased irritability or a sense of hopelessness 

    • Difficulty sleeping or relaxing after work 

    • Constant worry about meeting expectations 

    If these experiences sound familiar, it may be time to explore ways to reset. Therapy can be a critical tool in understanding the cause of burnout and establishing healthier boundaries. A counselor can help you reframe your mindset, improve self-care routines, and explore career changes or communication strategies to regain control over your work-life balance. 

    A Team Armed With Burnout Solutions

    Burnout doesn’t mean you’re weak or incapable—it means your environment may no longer be sustainable without support. Our mental health providers work with professionals from all industries to restore balance and confidence. Give us a call to get started! With the right tools, it’s possible to enjoy your work once more. 

    Filed Under: work, work-life balance, workplace

    The Many Forms of Anxiety and What to Do About It

    December 19, 2025

    Anxiety is one of the most common mental health challenges, but it doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some people experience racing thoughts before a presentation. Others feel panicked at the idea of leaving home. Anxiety shows up in many forms, and understanding your specific experience is the first step toward managing it with anxiety […]

    Read More

    The Many Forms of Anxiety and What to Do About It

    Anxiety is one of the most common mental health challenges, but it doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some people experience racing thoughts before a presentation. Others feel panicked at the idea of leaving home. Anxiety shows up in many forms, and understanding your specific experience is the first step toward managing it with anxiety therapy. 

    When Does General Anxiety Become an Anxiety Disorder?

    While having occasional anxiety is a normal part of life, persistent and overwhelming fear can signal a disorder. These conditions disrupt daily routines, strain relationships, and make even simple tasks feel daunting. Types of anxiety disorders include: 

    • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), marked by constant worry about daily events 

    • Social Anxiety Disorder, involving intense fear of judgment or embarrassment 

    • Panic Disorder, with sudden, repeated panic attacks 

    • Phobias, which are strong fears of specific objects or situations 

    • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which share features with anxiety disorders 

    Anxiety can also overlap with depression, trauma, or burnout, making professional support especially valuable. Fortunately, anxiety is highly treatable, and help is available in many different forms. An anxiety therapist can help you identify triggers, develop coping strategies, and challenge unhelpful thought patterns. In some cases, medication may also be recommended to provide symptom relief. 

    Anxiety Therapy Can Change Your Life

    Whether your anxiety feels like constant tension or unpredictable panic, there are tools and techniques that can help you feel grounded and in control again. Our providers work with clients to build personalized anxiety therapy plans that empower them to heal at their own pace. Reach out to our team today to get started!

    Filed Under: Anxiety, high functioning-anxiety, mental health

    What the Heck Is “Breathwork”? Beginning Your Mindfulness Journey

    December 18, 2025

    If you’re new to the world of mindfulness and meditation, breathwork might sound like no more than a wellness buzzword. In actuality, however, it’s a powerful, science-backed tool in the mindfulness toolkit. By learning how to intentionally regulate your breath, you can trigger your body’s natural calming response—often within minutes. If you’ve ever felt stuck […]

    Read More

    What the Heck Is “Breathwork”? Beginning Your Mindfulness Journey

    If you’re new to the world of mindfulness and meditation, breathwork might sound like no more than a wellness buzzword. In actuality, however, it’s a powerful, science-backed tool in the mindfulness toolkit. By learning how to intentionally regulate your breath, you can trigger your body’s natural calming response—often within minutes. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a state of anxiety, anger, or even just overstimulated by a busy day, breathwork guided by a mental health professional can bring your body and mind back to center. 

    No Fancy Equipment Needed to Get Started! 

    Practicing breathwork for mindfulness doesn’t require any equipment or expensive classes. It simply means bringing awareness to your breathing and shifting it in a way that supports your emotional state. Here are a few common types of breathwork: 

    • Box breathing involves inhaling, holding, and exhaling for equal counts 

    • Alternate nostril breathing (done by taking turns closing each nostril with light finger pressure) can promote balance and calm 

    • Diaphragmatic (or belly) breathing helps slow your heart rate and relax your body 

    • “4-7-8” breathing reduces stress and quiets racing thoughts 

    Many people find that consistent breathwork practice becomes a gateway into deeper mindfulness practices, like meditation and yoga. It can also be useful during therapy to help manage overwhelming emotions or flashbacks. 

    The Intersection of Breathwork and Therapy 

    Therapists often integrate breathwork into sessions because of its grounding effects. Whether you’re new to therapy or just exploring tools for better emotional regulation, breathwork is an excellent place to start. Our counselors are compassionate professionals who can support your growth every step of the way with breathwork and other invaluable anti-anxiety techniques. Schedule a consultation today

    Filed Under: Anger, Anxiety

    Journal Prompts to Start Healing From Depression

    December 17, 2025

    Healing from depression can feel overwhelming, especially if professional support isn’t accessible. While therapy is a powerful resource, not everyone has the time or money to dedicate to this form of healing. On the other hand, journaling is a free and effective tool to begin understanding and expressing your thoughts. Writing prompts around depression can […]

    Read More

    Journal Prompts to Start Healing From Depression

    Healing from depression can feel overwhelming, especially if professional support isn’t accessible. While therapy is a powerful resource, not everyone has the time or money to dedicate to this form of healing. On the other hand, journaling is a free and effective tool to begin understanding and expressing your thoughts. Writing prompts around depression can help you bypass the mental fog you’re dealing with and focus on healing. 

    Do You Need to Be a Writer to Benefit From Journaling? 

    You don’t need to be a writer to benefit! Simply engaging with thoughtful journal prompts daily or weekly can start shifting your mindset and clarifying your emotions when things get tough. Here are a few prompts to help you get started: 

    1. “What would I say to a friend who felt like I do right now?” 

    2. “What does my depression need me to know today?” 

    3. “What used to bring me joy, and how might I reconnect with it?” 

    4. “What thoughts have been weighing on me the most this week?” 

    5. “How would I like to feel three months from now?” 

    Journaling can become an empowering routine that supports awareness and emotional release, especially during hard moments when connection feels distant. Use these prompts as a safe space to explore your inner world when bad feelings creep up. 

    Go a Step Further With Depression Therapy 

    Working with a mental health provider adds structure and insight to your healing journey. If you’re ready to go deeper, therapy can help uncover the root causes of your depression and offer you tools to create lasting change. Our team is here to support your comfort and growth—reach out to begin your path forward with depression therapy. 

    Filed Under: Anxiety, Depression, journaling

    • « Previous Page
    • 1
    • 2
    • 3
    • 4
    • …
    • 7
    • Next Page »


    316 Park Ave E. Renville, MN 56284

    700 Cedar Building, Suite 120 Alexandria, MN 56308

    320-329-4357 (HELP)
    dr.discher@lifecenterllc.com
    Fax: 507-413-6776

    Contact Today

    Life Center LLC, Discher &Associates
    dr.discher@lifecenterllc.com | 320-329-4357 (HELP)
    Fax: 507-413-6776

    A Website by Brighter Vision | Privacy Policy