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October is breast cancer awareness month. Having worked with breast cancer patients since 2017, I have heard from so many patients about how this disease has impacted them. I thought I would share a few themes that I have noticed over the years (in no particular order): Navigating the medical system can be confusing and/or stressful – With a diagnosis of breast cancer, patients can find themselves with multiple doctors and medical professionals involved in their care. It is typical to have a surgeon/specialist, a medical oncologist (a doctor who prescribes chemotherapy if needed and monitors…

You might notice that at times, in particular with your partner, you just don't seem to connect well. Arguments that started out of nowhere, leave you feeling like you're spinning. When you're noticing a rupture after an argument, the way you try to reconnect or repair it and the way your friend or partner might try to do so, causes more miscommunication than you before you made this attempt. So disheartening! This is most likely a product of your early childhood experiences...of what happened to you. Whether you are aware or not, the way you were cared for and connected with your early…

Self-esteem can be summarized as how we feel about ourselves. It is a powerful force that shapes our lives in numerous ways, influencing our moods/feelings about ourselves, our effectiveness, relationships, and overall well-being. In this blog post, we will explore the multifaceted nature of self-esteem and provide evidence-based suggestions for nurturing and enhancing it, including the role of authenticity and taking risks. 1. The Bidirectional Relationship between Self-Esteem and Effectiveness Our self-esteem and our effectiveness in various aspects of life share a dynamic, bidirectional…

Somatic Experiencing is a gentle, yet powerful and effective approach for resolving symptoms of trauma and relieving chronic anxiety and stress. Instead of just talking about the problem, this is a “bottom-up” way of processing. This means we’re inviting the body’s information and the body’s intelligence to come into our awareness and be a part of the process, encouraging and creating space for our body’s natural ability to heal. How we Get Stuck When we feel like our life is threatened (whether real or imagined) or if we have chronic stress over a long period of time, our bodies are designed…

What Is ADHD Procrastination? ADHD procrastination refers to the chronic tendency to delay tasks, often associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Unlike typical procrastination, ADHD procrastination is driven by unique cognitive and emotional factors inherent to the disorder. Individuals with ADHD often experience difficulties in starting tasks due to issues with executive functioning, such as planning, prioritizing, and maintaining focus. This type of procrastination can be particularly challenging because it is often intertwined with feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, and…

In a world where open conversations about sexuality are gaining momentum, it's essential to understand the role of sex therapy in helping individuals and couples overcome sexual difficulties and enhance their love lives. Sex therapy provides a safe and supportive environment for addressing sexual concerns, improving intimacy, and unlocking the full potential of relationships. In this article, we will delve into what sex therapy entails and who can benefit from its transformative power. What is Sex Therapy? Sex therapy is a specialized form of therapy that focuses on resolving issues related to…

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects individuals of all ages. While medication and therapy are often used to manage ADHD symptoms, behavioral adaptations play a vital role in improving daily functioning and overall well-being. These adaptations involve implementing strategies and changes in behavior that support attention, organization, and self-regulation. In this article, we will explore some of the most common behavioral adaptations that can significantly improve ADHD symptoms and enhance quality of life. Establishing Structure and…

With pandemic restrictions behind us, many people are eager to get back to doing things in person again, including therapy. Taking the time out of your day to travel to your therapist's office, sitting on their couch, and being present with each other in person can be important parts of therapy for many folks. However, doing therapy by video is often just as effective, and can even have some advantages compared to in-person therapy. Here are some signs that video therapy might be a good fit for you. You feel comfortable and safe at home A big part of what makes therapy work is feeling safe…

When people get in a car accident or have another type of sudden injury, we notice that some people seem to heal just fine and others can get stuck with chronic pain. There’s nothing fair about it. For those of us who get stuck with chronic pain, we can also get stuck feeling helpless. If this has been your experience, I’m deeply sorry. I really want you to know that often, there is more that we can do. Let me explain. Our nervous systems are intelligent and know just what to do when we get in an accident. They kick in something we call the threat response cycle. This cycle comes from part of…

Every couple is faced to some degree with fundamental differences in terms of beliefs and values. Successful couples are able to respectfully negotiate, comprise on or resolve difficult issues. Many couples, however, are unable to work past major differences despite their best efforts. Others attend to differences in a very mindful way, yet for a range of reasons may decide that they are too great to overcome. Solvable issues or perpetual issues? Dr. John Gottman, an internationally renowned marital researcher, has written an excellent book called The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work…