counseling

Trauma dumping refers to a situation where an individual shares their traumatic experiences in an overwhelming, often boundary-violating manner without the listener’s consent. While it’s not  always intentional, trauma dumping typically crosses interpersonal boundaries and may cause the listener to feel overwhelmed or trapped.  Learn more about how to spot…

Psychodynamic therapy is a cornerstone of modern psychotherapy. This approach delves into the depths of human consciousness, unearthing the hidden influences on thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This therapeutic approach, rooted in the pioneering work of Sigmund Freud and further developed by subsequent theorists, seeks to bring unconscious processes to the…

Compassion-focused therapy (CFT) places compassion, both for oneself and for others, at the heart of the healing journey. By nurturing a kind and nurturing inner voice, CFT equips individuals with the tools to soothe themselves and foster self-supportive behaviors.  The ultimate aim is to construct a foundation of emotional resilience,…

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is a unique form of psychotherapy that combines elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness to promote psychological flexibility, emotional well-being, and the pursuit of meaningful life goals. Unlike traditional therapies that seek to eliminate or control negative thoughts and feelings, ACT teaches individuals to…

Motivational interviewing (MI) is a counseling technique designed to help clients confront their mixed emotions about change and find the internal resources to motivate action. The MI method is rooted in the notion that people are more successful in overcoming ambivalence when they hear their own arguments for behavior change….

Just as physical health is supported by proper diet, exercise, and rest, our mental health is just as multi-faceted. Mental health consists of our emotional, psychological, and social well-being.  In recognition of the importance of mental health awareness and treatment, World Mental Health Day is celebrated annually on October 10th….

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) uses mindfulness and cognitive strategies in harmony to tackle various mental health disorders. This therapeutic approach, inspired by the pioneering work of Aaron Beck in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), combines the strengths of CBT with the enriching power of mindfulness.  MBCT seeks to enhance healthy self-reflection,…

Self-esteem significantly influences our life in many ways: It impacts our self-confidence, relationships, and ability to pursue our goals and aspirations, ultimately playing a pivotal role in our overall life satisfaction and success.  This is precisely why low self-esteem can have detrimental effects on our life, leading to feelings of…

One of the hardest parts of therapy can be reckoning with our emotions. Emotions affect all of us, but sometimes focusing on the ones that feel good can cause us to avoid the ones that feel worse. However, though not all emotions feel good at first, it can help to…

If you’ve already been to individual therapy, you likely know its power. If you’ve never been to therapy, you may need more convincing. You might be wondering: “What is individual counseling? What is the true value of therapy sessions?”  However you approach the individual therapy guide below, we hope that…

Psychotherapy — or, as it is more commonly known, just therapy — is a powerful tool used by millions of people each year. In the right circumstances, therapy and professional counseling offer a safe and comfortable space to share your thoughts and feelings and acquire skills to help you deal…

Nothing prepares us for the loss of a loved one—whether from death, a divorce, or simply them moving to a new area. The grief that comes with loss is overwhelming. And it doesn’t usually go away quickly.  Months, even years following, you might be asking, “How long does grief last?…