Trying to figure out mental health care can be confusing. Therapists, counselors, psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners—they all treat anxiety and depression, but the titles seem interchangeable. Then there are the licensing abbreviations (LPC, LMFT, Psy.D) that vary by state, making it even harder to know where to start. Understanding…
James Lavino’s first big break came by way of Winnie the Pooh. Spending his 20s in New York (circa the late 1990s), Lavino found himself composing scores for his friends’ documentary films and dipping his hand in whatever creative endeavors came his way—including editing at the literary magazine “The Paris…
Q: Seeking Guidance on Husband’s Unconventional Therapist I hope this message finds you well. I am reaching out seeking advice and insight. My husband has been struggling with depression and anxiety, and he started therapy a few months ago. The way he chose his therapist is a bit unconventional and…
Q: I have a friend who always borrows money but never pays me back. He tells me I’m wrong and am being selfish, but I am tired of lending. A: Hi there, I am sorry to hear you are having a difficult time with this friend. The first word that…
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a severe and debilitating mood disorder that affects some women after childbirth. It typically emerges within the first few weeks to months following delivery, though it can develop up to a year postpartum. PPD is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and overwhelming fatigue that…
Mental health professionals are always looking to use the most successful techniques—and deciding which method or approach to use is highly dependent on the individual’s needs and wants. One of the most successful and broadly-used methods in contemporary practice is known as solution-focused brief therapy. Solution-focused brief therapy offers a…
Taking the first step on the road to recovery can feel difficult or intimidating. You may not know where to start to get the help you need. However, scheduling mental health services and getting treatment becomes much easier if you understand the type of help you need. One facet of…
Q: I’m happy to have my job and I don’t really have anything bad to say about my coworkers or my position. But still, there are people and situations at work that can be really draining on me. As an introvert, by the time Friday rolls around, I can’t wait…
As we get older, many things change: our appearance, our interests, our goals, our routines, and our relationships. I’ve found the latter to be especially true. Sure, my hair’s grown, I now enjoy camping, I’m no longer pressed to lose weight, and I actually go to bed at a decent…
Q: What is more important? Following your heart, mind, body, and soul, even if it means hurting others’ feelings and emotions, or continuing to live in denial to make your dying spouse, special needs child, and others happy? A: Thank you for reaching out. I really feel for you and…
Q: I am feeling super overwhelmed and alone. What are some things that I can do to calm down? A: We’re so sorry to hear that you’re feeling overwhelmed and alone. Those feelings are really difficult and we understand that it can be hard to find ways to calm and…
Are you feeling nervous about starting therapy or counseling? If so, don’t worry. It’s totally normal to feel a little nervous. That said, you can take some proactive steps to prepare for your first therapy session. These tips will help to lessen those nerves and also help make for a…
