When someone approaches us, we often feel the need to help. We do not want to see others in pain, especially those closest to us, so we move in to help. Leading with helping is understandable since we are taught to help and problem-solve from an early age. However, it...
Fall can be a beautiful time in the Pacific Northwest. The grass is green, and the trees have vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. As we move to winter, leaves begin to drop, the cedar trees drop their helicopter seeds, and we head outside with our rakes to chase the...
Today, I read an article in the WSJ. They cite data from the CDC suggesting that as many as 1/3 of people in the United States indicate symptoms of anxiety or depression. These numbers have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic and other increased social challenges...
Many have heard of white noise. It is often the sound of a fan or buzzing and is used to mask sound and reduce distraction or sleep. Did you know there are other colors of noise, and some that may be better? White noise is generally a constant sound. Pink is similar...
Have you felt upset and shared it with a friend or a family member who responded, “in a hundred years, who will care?” Did you feel heard? Did it feel like they were empathetic to your emotions? Often, responses are meant to be helpful, but they can be dismissive. “In...
A school of thought that many counselors include is the biopsychosocial model. The model is a holistic approach to viewing the different parts that impact our overall psychological health. No parts are more important than the others, but it is important to recognize...
Wait, what? Did you really say that anxiety is healthy? Before we go there, let’s first explore what anxiety is. Anxiety can be many things. When someone says that they are anxious, are they excited, stressed, or feeling a sense of fear? Generally speaking,...
Here is a great mindfulness resource that I use to help on those occasional nights when I struggle to get to sleep. My favorite person has the perfect voice and message to help me get to the right state and drift off. If you find you also need that extra help, please...
