What is hyperfixation? Symptoms, causes, and how to manage it by Alexandra Cromer, LPC | Jun 13, 2025 | Disorders, Mental Health Topics Hyperfixation is a unique state of mind that goes far beyond a simple hobby or interest. Unlike casual interests, hyperfixations are intense, obsessive, and persistent—often taking precedence over everyday tasks and responsibilities. While commonly linked to conditions like ADHD, hyperfixation can happen to both neurodivergent and neurotypical people, shaping how…
Understanding overstimulation: What it is, why it happens, and how to get relief by Jessica Levine | Mar 13, 2025 | Anxiety, Mental Health Topics You’re standing in the kitchen, making coffee as you scroll through your Instagram feed and reply to a quick work email. Then—ding!—a reminder about tomorrow’s dentist appointment pops up, immediately followed by a breaking news notification and two direct messages from your boss. Suddenly, the lights seem a little too…
Exploring the world of music therapy by Alexandra Cromer, LPC | Feb 20, 2025 | Beginning Therapy, Mental Health Topics Music therapy is a recognized form of psychotherapy used to help clients process experiences, express emotions, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. It is especially beneficial for those who struggle with verbal communication, have experienced trauma, or face medical conditions that hinder self-expression. Read on to learn more about how music…
Violent dreams meaning: Why are my dreams so violent? by Sarah Barness | Nov 5, 2024 | Mental Health Topics, Sleep Have you ever startled awake, wondering, “Why are my dreams so violent?” Maybe you had a dream about a creepy clown chasing you, insisting on giving you a shot. Maybe you dreamt about getting in a violent fight with someone you know. Whatever it might be, a scary or violent…
Words of encouragement for someone with a mental illness: 8 helpful things to say by Emily Simonian, M.A., LMFT | Sep 19, 2024 | Mental Health Awareness, Mental Health Topics, Relationships There may come a time when someone with a mental illness — like depression, anxiety, or PTSD — needs your help. While mental health conditions require proper treatment from a mental health professional like a counselor or psychiatrist, you can provide help in the form of comfort, reassurance, and support….
Understanding trauma dumping: Communication strategies and professional support by Alexandra Cromer, LPC | May 10, 2024 | Mental Health Topics, Trauma 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…
Healing from domestic violence through therapy by Theresa Lupcho, LPC | Oct 13, 2023 | Abuse & Neglect, Mental Health Topics Domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence, is a complex and dangerous issue that thousands deal with every day. Even after a violent situation has ended, the mental and emotional ramifications of the experience remain. Because of this, domestic violence therapy is often necessary to address the traumatic events…
Nightmare disorder: Causes, symptoms, and treatment by Alexandra Cromer, LPC | Aug 10, 2023 | Disorders, Mental Health Topics, Sleep Everyone has a disturbing dream from time to time. However, when these dreams become persistent, they can interfere with one’s everyday life. And when this happens, it could be a sign of nightmare disorder.
Marriage counseling: A comprehensive guide for curious couples seeking support by Theresa Lupcho, LPC | Jul 27, 2023 | Beginning Therapy, Mental Health Topics, Relationships Have you ever been in the midst of a conflict with your significant other and wished that you could rewind, start over, and reset? Maybe you didn’t know how to heal the emotional wounds that were inflicted in the heat of the moment—and still don’t. Sometimes an expert is required…
Acute stress disorder vs. PTSD: Differences in diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment by Christine Ridley, LCSW | Jan 31, 2023 | Disorders, Mental Health Topics After experiencing a traumatic or emotionally scarring event, the fear, pain, and helplessness felt in that moment can linger and affect someone’s life in the weeks and months after it happens. This reaction is completely understandable, as events like those are extremely harmful and can certainly change the life of…
Refugees and mental health: How displacement can devastate well-being by Wistar Murray | Mar 9, 2022 | Feelings & Emotions, Mental Health Topics Do you maintain a go bag where you keep critical documents, petty cash, a flashlight, water, a can opener, family heirlooms…? Is that theoretical survival kit starting to feel a little heavy right now? Can you imagine lugging it for miles if the roads are impassable by car? Maybe you…
New research finds that people with PTSD may be twice as likely to develop dementia by Madison Bambini | Sep 21, 2020 | Mental Health Topics, PTSD, Research New research finds that people with PTSD who do not receive treatment have a higher risk of developing dementia later in life. This research also finds that veterans diagnosed with PTSD (who are more likely to receive treatment for PTSD compared with the general population) have a reduced risk of…