Our Thoughts

Have you ever had a therapy session where you discuss how stressed out, frustrated, and ‘on edge’ you’ve been recently and somehow ended up with the therapist discussing ways to practice gratitude? The reason for that is more clinical than you may think. Often times when one practices gratitude, they are often able to find moments of joy more readily. Finding joy (or experiencing pleasant sensory experiences) can help regulate the automatic nervous system.

I recently completed the official certification process to be an ADHD-CCSP. What is that, you ask? CCSP stands for Certified Clinical Services Professional and my area of expertise is ADHD. 

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is more than just needing things to be clean and organized. People with OCD often struggle with intrusive and irrational thoughts (otherwise known as obsessions) that trigger intense anxiety and distress. In an effort to feel better, they might perform certain repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (otherwise known as compulsions) that temporarily reduce anxiety.

OCD is characterized by the presence of intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repeated behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions). These compulsions are attempts to reduce anxiety or prevent a feared event but they actually reinforce the OCD cycle.

As the days grow shorter and colder, many people begin to notice a shift in their mood, energy, and overall well-being. Tasks that once felt manageable can become difficult. There's a tendency to sleep more, withdraw socially, or experience a lingering sadness that’s hard to explain.

At some point, nearly everyone faces the challenge of living with a difficult person, whether it’s a passive-aggressive roommate, a controlling parent, a chronically messy partner, or someone whose moods shift like the weather. Shared living situations can already be stressful, but when they’re marked by conflict, tension, or emotional strain, daily life can become draining and overwhelming.

Mistakes, regression in progress, relapse, moments of weakness, resurgence of negative feelings and habits, maladaptive coping mechanisms, and the unearthing of what we once thought of as resolved. Unwanted happenings can feel like unwelcome guests; reminding us of a time when we were vulnerable, lacked self-control, and did not know any better.

Sports injuries can happen to athletes at any level and can have a significant impact on mental health. Whether the injury is a minor sprain or a major fracture requiring surgery, the physical aspects of recovery often receive the most attention, while the mental and emotional impact is just as significant.

The adolescent years can be defined by intense physical, emotional, social, and mental changes. Adolescents desire to be more independent individuals. They are figuring out who they are and who they want to be. They might begin to argue more than usual or break the rules at school or home. Many times, changes in an adolescent’s behavior are a typical part of growing up. Sometimes, however, more extreme behavioral challenges might arise...