Mental Health Topics

Narrative therapy is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on helping clients separate problems from their personal identity. It encourages clients to construct their personal narratives, emphasizing their strengths, past victories, and life’s purpose.  By reframing their stories and externalizing issues, clients can gain insight, reduce self-blame, and become experts…

It’s easy to focus on our flaws and failings, but what would happen if we chose to explore our strengths? Strengths-based therapy is a counseling approach that works with individuals to identify their strengths and help them gain the confidence and motivation they need to achieve their goals, among other…

Coping with a mental health condition is often anything but easy—and it seems as though gender may play a significant role in the development of mental health concerns and an individual’s battle with mental health. For women, their perceptions of themselves, as well as the preconceptions of others, may influence…

In some settings, perfectionism can be an excellent asset to have, allowing someone to be extremely detailed and precise in their work. However, maintaining this level of precision can be exhausting and stressful.  Many things can cause someone to become a perfectionist, but it’s important to manage the high expectations…

Navigating commitment issues in a relationship — sometimes referred to as gamophobia — can be challenging, and recognizing the signs is the first step toward resolving them. The root causes of these issues can vary, but often, they stem from a fear of vulnerability, fear of abandonment, lack of trust,…

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,…

Physical touch, whether it’s a hug, a kiss, or even just holding hands, can feel great from those we love. However, it’s also possible to receive too much and become overwhelmed by touch. Many people, especially mothers, can start to feel “touched out” when their sense of physical touch is…

Self-reflection is essential for cultivating self-awareness, understanding personal identity, and identifying unique characteristics, whether physical, psychological, or interpersonal. Its objective nature, focusing on “what” rather than “why,” fosters productive self-awareness and decreases self-criticism. Self-reflection is valuable in various aspects of life, such as relationships, parenting, and professional development.  Practicing self-reflection…

Therapy works to help heal individuals mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, but some types of therapy are even more focused on the individual than others. Humanistic therapy works by focusing on specific issues while maintaining focus on the person and accepting them as they are. By using the character and experiences…

Contrary to the weight gain that is sometimes a side effect of certain SSRIs and SNRIs, Wellbutrin often has the opposite effect.  As we discuss Wellbutrin’s potential side effects and the timeline for weight loss, it’s essential to remember that Wellbutrin is primarily prescribed for treating mental health conditions, not…

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…

People-pleasing, a behavior where individuals prioritize the needs and desires of others over their own, can have far-reaching implications for mental health and relationships. Those who engage in people-pleasing often find themselves in a relentless pursuit of approval and acceptance, going to great lengths to avoid conflict or the discomfort…