Therapy

Understanding Intrusive Thoughts

What are intrusive thoughts?

Intrusive thoughts are unwanted, distressing mental images or ideas: Common in OCD, anxiety, PTSD Not reflective of your values Treatable through CBT and mindfulness While driving, have you ever suddenly wondered what would happen if you went off the road into a nearby lake? Or maybe you’ve had a sudden thought to stab yourself while […]

Understanding Intrusive Thoughts Read More »

Addressing Overstimulation

Understanding Overstimulation and addressing in therapy

Whether it’s a noisy room, a hectic day or an intense emotional conversation, feeling overstimulated is a common experience for many people. For some, it passes quickly. For others, especially those with sensory sensitivities, trauma or neurodivergence, overstimulation can be deeply disruptive and difficult to manage. Learning to recognize, prevent and recover from overstimulation is

Addressing Overstimulation Read More »

Addressing Avoidance in Therapy

Addressing Avoidance in Therapy

While it’s natural to want to escape discomfort, repeated avoidance can stand in the way of growth and healing, especially in therapy. Whether it shows up as missing appointments, changing the subject when things get personal or brushing off strong emotions, avoidance behavior is one of the most common obstacles to progress in mental health

Addressing Avoidance in Therapy Read More »

What Is a Trauma Response?

What is a trauma response

A trauma response is your brain’s way of surviving danger: Fight, flight, freeze, or fawn patterns Can show up as anxiety, numbness, or people-pleasing Often unconscious and treatable with support When something frightening or distressing happens — especially when it feels inescapable — the brain and body work together to protect us. These protective patterns

What Is a Trauma Response? Read More »

How to Use Insurance for Mental Health Treatment

Insurance for Mental Health Treatment

Does insurance cover therapy or rehab? If you’re wondering if your health care benefits include treatment for mental health conditions, you’re not alone. Figuring out what your benefits actually cover can feel overwhelming — especially if you’re already struggling with anxiety or other symptoms. The idea of piles of insurance-related paperwork could seem like the

How to Use Insurance for Mental Health Treatment Read More »

Screening Tools for ADHD

ADHD Screening Tools

Common ADHD screeners help clarify symptoms: ASRS and Vanderbilt scales Focus on attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity Professional evaluation is still essential Have you ever found yourself wondering if your constant forgetfulness, restless energy or difficulty staying focused could be ADHD symptoms? You’re not alone. Many adults and parents ask themselves, “Do I have ADHD?” or

Screening Tools for ADHD Read More »

Spotting the signs of Codependency

How to spot the signs of codependency

Codependency often appears as: Prioritizing others over yourself Difficulty setting boundaries Low self-esteem tied to others’ approval Codependency can sneak into relationships that start with the best intentions. When emotional caretaking becomes the foundation, it’s easy to lose your sense of self. With 70% of married couples today living together before getting engaged or married,

Spotting the signs of Codependency Read More »

Untreated Depression: Understanding How it Affects Those Around You

Untreated Depression - Understanding how it affects those around you

If life is difficult and everything seems too much, there’s a chance you have untreated depression. Depression isn’t a state of mind but a mood or mental disorder . It’s how the body and mind react when subjected to stress. Reasons for depression include: Loss and bereavement Hormonal changes following pregnancy Physical and mental abuse

Untreated Depression: Understanding How it Affects Those Around You Read More »

Emotional Unavailability Explained: Recognizing and Navigating Disconnection

Emotional Unavailability

We’ve all met someone who seems a little distant. Maybe they shut down when talking about the future of a relationship or struggle to demonstrate how they feel. It can be confusing and sometimes hurtful, especially if you’re not sure what’s going on. This article will help you learn what it means to be emotionally

Emotional Unavailability Explained: Recognizing and Navigating Disconnection Read More »