Every single human being has two voices battling it out inside their head. The one voice is our champion, encouraging us to feel confident and to reach our fullest potential. Then there’s that other voice. The one that is critical of every move we make. The one that looks at all of our perceived flaws under a microscope and calls...[ read more ]

I’m sure we can all agree that we have been hurt by the callous words or actions of another. When this happens, we may find it difficult to forgive him or her. There is a very old saying that says, “Don’t cut off your nose to spite your face.” This is a warning to people to not act out in...[ read more ]

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a short-term, goal-oriented talk therapy that typically ranges between eight to twenty sessions. Mental health professionals, including myself, use it to treat or manage mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety as well as emotional concerns, including stress or grief. It is one of the most common and researched forms of psychotherapy. Research indicates...[ read more ]

2023 and the pursuit of joy! This year I have decided to invite more joy into my life. This is not an easy feat considering the innumerable stressors we face each new waking day; However, I believe it is necessary to look for joy in spite of the difficulties we may encounter. Joy is a choice and we must be...[ read more ]

Struggling with low self-esteem is something many people of all ages deal with. While low self-esteem is not considered a mental health condition itself, the way we think about ourselves directly impacts our mental health and overall well-being.   What is Self-Esteem? Self-esteem refers to the way people feel about themselves. Someone with a healthy or high self-esteem thinks positively...[ read more ]

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), refers to a type of depression that is recurrent and seasonally dependent. In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) it is also referred to as Major Depressive Disorder with seasonal pattern. Most people with SAD feel symptoms come on in the fall and generally feel them all through the winter months. Symptoms, which...[ read more ]

Stress affects us all. At times we may find ourselves inundated by copious amounts of stressful situations including living on a tight budget, navigating difficult relationships, or feeling stuck in a job that is less than rewarding. The old saying goes, “Into every life a little rain must fall”; However, learning how to manage stress is key to mitigating negative...[ read more ]

Stress is an unavoidable part of life. We may find ourselves dealing with far too many responsibilities at the same time. Whether it is working more than one job, sandwiched between taking care of young children and aging parents, or managing family life while going back to school. All of these are good things until it starts to feel a...[ read more ]

Self-Care means taking time to do the things you find enjoyable, relaxing, or energizing. It also means taking care of yourself. Self-care can be defined as any healthy, deliberate activity intended to nourish your mental, emotional, and/or physical wellbeing. In order to make self-care a habit, it is important to make it a priority. The first step in self-care is...[ read more ]

In honor of Earth Day, I thought it might be fitting to talk about the role of nature in promoting mental health. Nature stirs our souls and imagination and brings beauty to our everyday lives. But it turns out, nature also brings a slew of benefits to our mental and physical health. Anyone who knows me well, know that I...[ read more ]