My WordPress Blog
Oftentimes, when we think about what could harm our mental health, our minds go to major life events—the loss of a job, the end of a relationship, or the death of a loved one. But small habits that often go unnoticed can also play a major role. Below are three common habits that could be […]
Oftentimes, when we think about what could harm our mental health, our minds go to major life events—the loss of a job, the end of a relationship, or the death of a loved one. But small habits that often go unnoticed can also play a major role. Below are three common habits that could be negatively affecting your mental health:
Sleep impacts your mental health in numerous ways—it can affect your cognitive skills, mood, and behavior. As such, failing to get enough sleep can increase your risk of anxiety and depression and make it more difficult for you to focus, solve problems, make decisions, remember things, and control your emotions and impulses. Try sticking to the same sleep schedule, keeping your bedroom cool and dark, and performing a relaxing activity before bed (e.g., taking a warm bath or reading).
In today’s busy world, it can be difficult to find time to exercise, but it’s important to stay active. Not only can exercise improve your physical health, but it can also boost your mental health. In fact, studies have shown that regularly exercising could reduce your risk of depression.
Social media can be beneficial—it can help you stay connected to long-distance family and friends and keep up with current events—but research suggests that spending too much time on it can lead to anxiety and depression. To reduce your screen time, try setting a timer, turning off notifications, or deleting apps from your phone.
In addition to breaking the negative habits described above, one of the best things you can do to boost your mental health is speak to a therapist. Fortunately, you can entrust your care to the skilled team at our practice. Once we’ve learned more about you and any issues you may be experiencing, we’ll be able to provide you with customized advice for how to eliminate negative habits from your life and start implementing more positive ones. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment.
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 […]
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.
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.
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.
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!
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 […]
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.
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.
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!
Have you limited your communication and interactions with a family member, or stopped them entirely? If so, you’re not alone. According to statistics published by Psychology Today, over 25% of the U.S. population is currently estranged from a family member, and more than 43% have experienced family estrangement at some point during their lives. In […]
Have you limited your communication and interactions with a family member, or stopped them entirely? If so, you’re not alone. According to statistics published by Psychology Today, over 25% of the U.S. population is currently estranged from a family member, and more than 43% have experienced family estrangement at some point during their lives.
In many cases, estrangement is necessary, such as when neglect and abuse have occurred. Many families also become estranged after divorce, incarceration, illness, or death, or due to conflicts about religion, partners, and lifestyle choices. Unfortunately, even if you feel that it’s important to cut off contact with a family member, estrangement can still take a toll on your mental health. For example, estrangement can often lead to:
Although estrangement can result from a singular event, it often develops over time. Family members may separate, reconcile, and then repeat that cycle over and over again. When this happens, the resulting lack of closure can also impact the involved parties’ mental health.
Estrangement can take quite a toll on our lives, so if you’re currently estranged from a parent, a sibling, a child, or another loved one, it’s important that you prioritize your own mental health and well-being. One of the best things you can do is speak to a therapist who specializes in estrangement—once you’ve told them about your personal situation, they’ll be able to provide you with customized advice on how to move forward. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of the caring therapists at our practice.
Therapy has become more widely accepted in recent years, but misconceptions still keep so many from seeking help. Myths about mental health treatment can discourage individuals from exploring options that could change their lives. Let’s debunk a few of the most common therapy myths: Myth 1: “Therapy Is Only for People With Serious Problems” Who […]
Therapy has become more widely accepted in recent years, but misconceptions still keep so many from seeking help. Myths about mental health treatment can discourage individuals from exploring options that could change their lives. Let’s debunk a few of the most common therapy myths:
Myth 1: “Therapy Is Only for People With Serious Problems”
Who defines what is or isn’t a serious problem? If something is affecting your life negatively, that’s a problem. And a therapist will be happy to help.
Myth 2: “A Therapist Will Just Tell Me What to Do”
It’s unfortunately true that not all therapists take a proper collaborative approach with their patients. However, this is a small minority. Therapists exist to listen to and empower their clients, not shut them down and order them around.
Myth 3: “It’s Too Expensive/Time-Consuming”
Therapy is tailored to your needs and can be as often or infrequent as you like. Additionally, many therapists work on a sliding scale or offer financial assistance if cost is a barrier to your care. Therapy should never feel like a burden.
Myth 4: “I Should Be Able to Handle Things on My Own”
It would certainly be nice if humans could always get by on their own! But everyone needs help sometimes, and this thought process is a barrier to your healing.
Myth 5: “If I Go to Therapy, It Means I’m Weak”
The truth is the opposite. You’re going to therapy not because you’re broken and weak, but because you want to be a better person. That makes you stronger than most.
If you’ve been holding back because of misconceptions like these, you’re not alone. But therapists work to create a nonjudgmental environment where your goals guide the process, and this can be a meaningful part of your self-care! Give our team a call today to connect with a mental health provider who understands.
Between constant notifications, doomscrolling, and the pressure to stay plugged in, social media takes a toll. While these platforms offer connection and entertainment, they can also lead to anxiety, low self-esteem, and information fatigue. The occasional digital detox—intentionally stepping back from screens—can allow you to reclaim mental clarity, improve focus, and reconnect with real-life moments. […]
Between constant notifications, doomscrolling, and the pressure to stay plugged in, social media takes a toll. While these platforms offer connection and entertainment, they can also lead to anxiety, low self-esteem, and information fatigue. The occasional digital detox—intentionally stepping back from screens—can allow you to reclaim mental clarity, improve focus, and reconnect with real-life moments.
Signs It’s Time to Log Off
Here are a few signs it’s time to initiate a detox:
You feel anxious or low after scrolling
Your sleep is disrupted by late-night screen time
You find yourself constantly checking your phone
You compare your life to others’ highlight reels
You feel overwhelmed by the constant stream of content
Even if you enjoy social media, it’s worth evaluating whether your digital habits support your wellbeing or drain it.
Digital Detox Strategies That Work
Once you’ve identified the need for a break, then what? It’s rarely as simple as setting your phone down and walking away, but you can try:
Set screen-free hours during meals, work, or bedtime.
Turn off push notifications to reduce distractions.
Curate your feed by unfollowing or muting accounts that trigger stress.
Use time-tracking apps to increase awareness of your screen time patterns.
Replace doomscrolling with mindful activities, like reading, taking walks, journaling, or otherwise spending time offline.
These small changes can help you develop a more balanced and intentional relationship with technology. Another thing to try if you’re struggling with the effect of social media on your mental health is individual therapy. Therapy can uncover the emotional patterns behind your screen use and teach you how to set healthy boundaries.
Start Reclaiming Your Mental Space Today
Your time is valuable. If you want to be intentional about what you spend that time on, individual therapy can grant you clarity and guidance. Reach out today to speak with a therapist about starting your digital detox to protect your peace of mind!
COVID changed a lot of things, and not much for the better. But one area we’ve made improvements in is making reliable mental health care more accessible. Virtual therapy sessions allow clients to connect with licensed professionals from home, reducing barriers like travel time, scheduling conflicts, or a lack of local providers. This convenience increases […]
COVID changed a lot of things, and not much for the better. But one area we’ve made improvements in is making reliable mental health care more accessible. Virtual therapy sessions allow clients to connect with licensed professionals from home, reducing barriers like travel time, scheduling conflicts, or a lack of local providers. This convenience increases the likelihood of regular attendance and staying committed to treatment. If you’ve had issues with that in the past, it may be time to give telehealth therapy a try!
Telehealth therapy has revolutionized the field. It offers the same level of privacy and professionalism as in-person sessions, as therapists will use secure platforms to protect confidentiality. In addition, the rise of telehealth has made it easier for people to:
Receive consistent care in rural areas or when struggling with mobility challenges
Fit therapy into their schedules without needing to commute or arrange childcare
Open up to a new therapist, since they’re in a familiar environment
Virtual therapy is versatile, with individual counseling, couples therapy, or even group sessions coordinated online. Though some situations may still benefit from in-person support, telehealth has proven highly effective for conditions like anxiety, depression, and stress management. Overall, it’s a flexible option that suits most modern lifestyles while maintaining a high standard of care.
If you’ve let your mental health fall to the wayside because of a lack of time or access, telehealth therapy may be the solution. Book a virtual session today to experience the benefits of professional support from the comfort of your home!
Have you ever thought about how your environment contributes to your mood? The relationships we maintain, communities we engage with, news we read about, and even workplace culture all influence emotional wellbeing. If we want to be better people, it’s our responsibility to surround ourselves with uplifting things and seek out resources—like therapy—when we need […]
Have you ever thought about how your environment contributes to your mood? The relationships we maintain, communities we engage with, news we read about, and even workplace culture all influence emotional wellbeing. If we want to be better people, it’s our responsibility to surround ourselves with uplifting things and seek out resources—like therapy—when we need them. In the end, our mental health is in our hands.
So, you aspire to be a happy, well-adjusted individual. Perhaps start here:
Surround yourself with what makes you feel good. Having supportive relationships protects against depression and anxiety, so that’s a good place to focus on. Friends and family provide encouragement during stressful times and give you people to lean on.
Address whatever causes unnecessary stress. A toxic workplace, strained family dynamics, or social isolation are all issues that can be solved. Perhaps spending too much time on social media is causing you to focus on negative things instead of what’s going well. Over time, these factors raise the risk of developing mental health disorders.
This won’t happen overnight, but try to:
Build supportive networks through friends, family, or community groups
Limit exposure to toxic environments when possible
Seek therapy if social stressors begin to feel overwhelming
By understanding the impact of your social environment, you can take proactive steps toward building a healthier life.
If you could use a little guidance as you work on your ideal environment, our team is always available! We provide individual therapy for a range of issues, including life transitions and personal growth. Book a session today to get personalized support.
Exercise might be the last thing you feel like doing when you’re depressed or anxious, but did you know that physical activity can have a powerful effect on mental health? It’s true! The connection between mental health and physical exercise is deeply rooted in how movement affects the brain’s chemistry, structure, and overall health. Even […]
Exercise might be the last thing you feel like doing when you’re depressed or anxious, but did you know that physical activity can have a powerful effect on mental health? It’s true! The connection between mental health and physical exercise is deeply rooted in how movement affects the brain’s chemistry, structure, and overall health. Even light or moderate activity can make a noticeable difference in your mood and energy levels.
Before continuing, it’s important to note that we’re not saying you need to be a fitness enthusiast. This is more about finding sustainable ways to move your body that support emotional wellness. Physical activity has been proven to:
Boost mood – Exercise releases endorphins and serotonin to reduce anxiety and improve overall mood.
Improve sleep – It regulates circadian rhythms and promotes more restful sleep.
Enhance focus – Increased blood flow to the brain supports executive function.
Build confidence – Achieving physical goals can boost self-esteem.
Reduce stress – Lower cortisol levels improve the body’s ability to cope with stressors.
While exercise isn’t a substitute for therapy, it’s an effective complement to mental health treatment. It gives the brain a break, encourages mindfulness, and helps you reconnect with your body. With all those benefits, it’s no wonder people keep recommending it!
If you’re already dealing with depression, anxiety, or crippling stress, getting started with a new exercise routine can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—you don’t have to do it alone. A therapist can help you build motivation and create realistic goals as part of this journey, and we’re here to help. Reach out today to schedule a session and see for yourself how therapy and movement can work together to support your mental health!
