Day 8: Things my therapist said that changed my life… I suspect I’m not alone in this. I walk through much of life trying to put myself in other people’s shoes. I value empathy and continually work to harness my empathic skills. I look for opportunities to help grow empathy in my kids. I think of myself as a fairly nice person: kind, thoughtful, on the whole, pretty caring… that is until I’m talking to myself. Let's take yesterday for example. It was a day with a ton on my schedule and a long list of to dos to tackle. I got to the end of the day and realized I hadn't written this daily therapy post. My judgey critical voice self-talk came in sarcastic and strong, “You're so bad at time management. You never finish anything you start. You call yourself a writer. Why are you acting so self-important? Who do you think you are? Who do you think is reading these anyway! If therapy was working so well, you wouldn't be dealing with this stupid inner voice!” Enter one of my therapist’s favorite questions… “Can you talk to yourself the way you'd talk to a dear friend?” And wow, just beginning to picture a near dear friend in my mind is powerful. My shoulders drop, my eyebrows uncrinkle, even my throat loosens and my tongue drops to the bottom of my mouth. This voice is a 180 degree change from the previous one. My voice comes out higher and gentler… I am not only kind to my friends, I’m their biggest cheerleader! “You've got a lot on your plate. As a mom, wife/partner, friend, you're holding a lot of others’ stress and emotions right now. You’re tired, and I hope you get the rest you need. You are a strong, smart, glorious, glittery, magical person and I LOVE YOU!” Being in therapy hasn’t made that mean inner voice go away. It doesn’t even make it quieter, at least not all the time. And maybe that is an unrealistic goal. But imagining how I’d talk to a dear friend? That’s pretty easy for me, actually. Talking to myself that way is harder. But also worth a try. . . . #therapyforthewin #therapy #asiangalintherapy #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #aapiheritagemonth #aapi #thingsmytherapistsaidthatchangedmylife #asianintherapy #normalizetherapy
Day 6: Things my therapist said... I was 40 weeks pregnant with our first child. I’d done so much work in therapy around trusting that I had everything within myself to be the kind of mother I wanted to be. And so this advice struck me as surprising. The context for this was in thinking ahead to what it would be like for my husband and me to transition from a couple into parents, into a unit of 3. My therapist had heard me talk for weeks about our good intention to be co-parents, eager to reinvent the wheel from old gender roles we’d been handed down from previous generations. “I want you to try something,” my therapist said, “when you and your husband bring your child home, and your baby starts to cry, you might feel strongly that you’re the only one who knows your baby best. You’re probably right, you did grow this baby inside you, and you have everything in you to be an amazing mother. But empower your husband to have confidence in his ability as a parent too. Your instinct may be to hold onto your baby, but hand over your baby.” Days after our daughter was born, she was crying and my whole body wanted to hang onto her. I felt urgently that I’d comfort her better than my husband could, that I’d more quickly respond to her needs than he did. I felt it intensely that it was through hot tears that I said to him, “I think it's my biology, hormones, and mama bear instincts telling me that I want to respond to our little bean in this specific way, so that’s why I’m crying right now. But I TRUST YOU.” Handing over our newborn, I said, “You got this.” As Mother’s Day passes, I’m thinking about this advice. It is a gift to myself that keeps giving. All continuing struggles to balance emotional labor and fighting gender roles aside, my husband is a fantastic & confident parent to our children. He doesn’t do things exactly the same way I do and I don’t need him to. Our kids trust him and love him and they are fine even when I’m not around. What a huge gift it's been, not to worry at times when I need to prioritize myself. Sometimes (who am I kidding, many times!) I feel the instinct that I know best, but I continue taking this advice. I hand over the baby.
A well-intentioned yet potentially harmful sentiment. One that often leads to feelings of guilt or shame from new or seasoned mothers, who are suffering in the postpartum period. The truth is, when Mothers are told to cherish every moment, it often leads them to discount their feelings. It can lead them to suffer in silence as they question whether or not they are a “good Mom” for feeling this way. “I’m so overwhelmed that I have a hard time caring for my baby, but I know I should just cherish every moment.” “My mental health is awful, but everyone keeps telling me to cherish every moment because they go by so fast.” We are here to tell you: not every moment is meant to be cherished. It’s okay to put your mental health first and ask for a break from baby. It’s okay to admit that some parts of the first year can be boring and lonely. It’s okay that you spent years/thousands trying to conceive and have moments where you miss your old life. If you are looking for permission to sit with your feelings WITHOUT the pressure to find a silver lining, you’ve got it. Parenting is hard enough without the extra guilt. Like, save, share or tag someone who needs the gentle reminder or permission not to cherish every moment of motherhood. #toxicpositivity #nosilverliningneeded #cherisheverymoment #therapistquote #therapyforthewin #realmotherhood #motherhoodunplugged #ppd #ppa #momlife #momstruggles #maternalmentalhealth #burnout #stressedoutmom #anxiousmom #mentalload #parenting #kids #moms #mothering #mentalhealth
"I know that when you're finally in the place you've dreamt of, you will look back on this period of your life and be so grateful you did not give up." 🌹 It has taken more than anyone will ever know for me to keep going in these past few months. My continued giving to others and taking from myself had consumed me in the worst ways. My life choices spiraled, and I lost all control of myself. I have gotten through 100% of my bad days thus far, and I am too strong to be a victim. I have accepted that I can not do this alone and saught the help I so desperately need. My therapist is an absolute Godsend, and I am beyond blessed to have her as my life guide. I am becoming more self-aware day in and day out. My true heart has been buried for a long time, and now, I won't stop digging until I find it again. I owe it to little me that has not gotten to live the life she has always dreamed of. I am so sorry, sweet girl, but now, we conquer our fears to receive all that God and the universe have to give us. To be continued. 💜 #itsmeforme #littlemel #shedeservesit #icanandiwill #mycomeback #findingmypeace #leavemebeotherwise #boundaries #inmycalmera #therapyforthewin #mentalhealthawareness
Why use the DonJoy IceMan Clear 3? After a recent surgery, dealing with pain and swelling can disrupt your daily routine. The Donjoy IceMan Clear 3 Cold Therapy Unit offers a solution by providing precise cold therapy to help alleviate post-operative discomfort. With Donjoy's innovative semi-closed loop circulation system, the IceMan ensures a steady and precise temperature for effective pain and swelling management. https://muscledoctor.co.uk/products/iceman-clear-3 #RecoverLikeAChampion #TherapyForAthletes #WinningWithTherapy #SportsRecoveryEssentials #GameChangerTherapy #PeakPerformanceProducts #AthleticWellnessSolutions #TherapyForTheWin #TrainRecoverRepeat #ChampionTherapyProducts
Hi!!! 👋🏼 It’s been a minute since I posted about myself - or posted in general 😅 My name is Kayla! I’m a mom of a crazy 2.5 yr old, wife to an incredible man, and fur mama to a lazy beagle💕 I’m an herbalist & aromatherapist in training, a jewelry maker at heart, and a full time college student (yup, still working towards my BA😣) I love all things purple (shocked??) 💜 I love to help people with natural solutions🪻 I have 33 plants in my home 🪴 I don’t really care for cooked veggies 🥗 I enjoy making jewelry for women to find confidence😍 My goal in this world is to leave a mark in people’s hearts, through service or education, or just plain kindness! I have been focusing a lot on growing myself and healing a lot of things I didn’t know need healing! #therapyforthewin My other business is @theolmsteadhomestead where I talk about natural solutions, essential oils, and products that help reduce chemicals in your home! 🏡 give me a follow and I’ll follow you back 🤎 plus I hope you’ll learn something new! Thank you for always supporting my businesses and my dreams in this crazy world 🩷
Spent some time catching up this weekend. #therapyforthewin #love2lovehazel
It's not like a "big bang" kinda thing. Engaging fully in therapy means some discomfort sometimes, and a whole lot of noticing ("noticing" is standing homework) . . #therapyhelps #therapyforthewin #jkbguelphtherapy
Therapist: helping me organize my chaos. Pro tip: Turns out talking to someone is cheaper than talking to yourself! 🗣️💡😂 #TherapyForTheWin #CounselingConfessions #MindfulLaughs #alteredmind #alteredmindmh
What’s been going on in your life lately?? #whatshappening #selfcare #therapydogs #therapyforthewin
Turning up the heat on the pickleball court with a little extra love from physical therapy. 🏓 💪Physical therapy exercises can focus on improving key aspects such as flexibility, strength, and agility, which are crucial for pickleball players. By addressing specific muscle imbalances and targeting areas prone to strain, physical therapy can contribute to better mobility on the court and increased endurance, ultimately boosting your pickleball skills and enjoyment of the game. So, the next time you're looking to up your pickleball game, consider adding some tailored physical therapy exercises to your training regimen! #PickleballGains #TherapyForTheWin
You’re well-being, your way! Experience the convenience of an IV drip. Elevate your health your comfort, your metabolism. Recharge yourself with an IV drip. Iv therapy is the key to your powerhouse. #Positive #Wellness #DripHydration #Vitamins #TherapyForTheWin.
Getting outside is getting back to me - it's healing, recharging, and inspiring. Yesterday was the first day in a few YEARS that I truly felt connected, present, and inspired, and I felt like ME again. There has been a LOT (to say the very least) of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual challenges, changes, and work over the past few years for me... a LOT. It has NOT been an easy or pretty couple of years. In fact, the ability to even be typing and sharing this post today is humbling. Aging, coupled with life and world changes, is a whicked play out of left field I NEVER saw coming. No thanks to our healthcare system, I'm incredibly grateful for the services of @weliberateall and the wonderful therapist who has helped me move mountains in the last 2+ months. I almost thought I'd never regain my true zest for life and had ALMOST resigned to never feeling well or right ever again... it has been some of my darkest times. I share this because there are SO MANY folx experiencing the same feelings, the same difficulties, and despair. MANY who had years, if not decades, of therapy & counseling in their younger years (like me) and don't have the strength to navigate the "system" for help. I get it. Help is out there though... sprinkled in the cracks of our broken healthcare system, help is out there and SO worth it! The work is real and hard and humbling, BUT worth it. You matter; You are not alone. #gettingMEback #livelifeoutside #dothework #igotthis #therapyforthewin #babysteps #movemountains #onestoneatatime #urbannature #citylife #beautyiseverywhere #youarenotalone #grateful
Current work in progress. #therapyforthewin #traumatherapy #hardworkisworthit
A gentle reminder we all need. It can be hard to believe this if you have been through a lot in your life. And no matter what you have been through, you are - and always have been enough. If this feels hard to believe, be gentle with yourself. The story of others do not have to control you anymore. Reach out to a counselor and get the support you need. You are a brave beautiful soul, and I see you. --- This canvas and others will be available for purchase in the online store. It is still under construction - give us a follow to learn when it is up and running! . . . . . . . #youareenough #therapy #counselor #therapyforthewin #affirmations #trauma #cptsd #brave #beautifulsoul #breaveandbeautiful #begentlewithyourself
Today’s a Baddie kinda day 🖤 feeling strong and ready to heal some more of those traumas that have had their claws in me. #nomore #therapyforthewin
Good mornin' Birch Fam😍 Today's focus + message came through so clear this morning, after I took my morning dunk in the pool + I wanted to share it with you all! ✨Act as if✨ I'm sure you have probably heard it many times before . . . Hear me out though . . . Act as if to me in this moment means instead of putting off moving + strengthening my body for 'later today', which then almost never happens, I did some while I was waiting for the kettle to boil. I made movement a priority because I know that's what Jessie 6 months from today would be doing. She'd be working on her mind, body + soul✨ I applied to be a vendor in a local shop downtown + haven't heard from them yet. I also don't feel like I have enough made in this moment to give them for a display . . . After I journal + have brecky, I'm going to focus on creating some things so that I have enough to give them when they accept my application . . . Acting as if😎 This perspective + shift in energy wouldn't be possible without 9 months of weekly therapy sessions. The work I've put into my mental health is something I'm so very grateful for + will never, ever regret✨ I've worked so hard that I'm so proud to share, I've graduated to bi-weekly therapy + I'm not taking medication anymore🤩💃🏼🥳 All this to say, Jessie 6 months from now wouldn't be stressing over some of the things that keep coming up, so I'm not going to now either . . . acting as if. I already feel a shift + am excited to get creating this morning🥰💛 #TherapyForTheWin #Therapy #MentalHealth #MentalHealthMatters #NoMoreMeds #Rituals #MorningRitual #Perspective #SeeTheLightInTheShadows #ShadowIntegration #LightInTheDark #MovingForward #SoulHealing #SelfCare #SelfLove #CreativeFlow #BirchNaturalCreations #BirchNaturalHealing #JessieJo #ExcitingShitRightThere #Celebrating #Healing #Growing
Thrilled to introduce our Newest Therapist on the #HealUApp 🤗 Say hello to VAISHNAVI DEBI, our expert Clinical Psychologist who's here to guide you on a journey of self-discovery and growth ✨ Let's navigate life's challenges together and embrace positive change! 🌈🗺️ #YourPathToWellness #TherapyTogether #WellnessUnlocked #TherapyTribe #TherapyForTheWin #HealthMatters #WellnessJourney #healu #diet #nutrition #gym #weighttraining #lowcarb #fatloss #wellness #exercise #doctor #healthy #healthyfood #fitindiamovement #fitdoctor #fitodisha #foodshealu
Embracing New Beginnings 🌼 Meet our Occupational Therapist extraordinaire, SAPNASRI PATTNAIK ✨ Get ready to bloom through personalized wellness journeys and achieve those everyday victories together! #WellnessUnlocked #TherapyTribe #OccupationalTherapy #TherapyForTheWin #HealthMatters #WellnessJourney #healu #diet #nutrition #gym #weighttraining #lowcarb #fatloss #wellness #exercise #doctor #healthy #healthyfood #fitindiamovement #fitdoctor #fitodisha #foodshealu #explorepage
Let’s go Cherryvale Falcons! We’re going to have a great 2023-2024 school year! ♥️ #ssdshiningstars #therapyforthewin
How we experience the impact of TRAUMA and how THERAPY can help us is often hard to understand. Thank you @themindsjournal for this visual! We ❤️ it!!! 💯👏 If you have further questions please reach out for a free 15 minute phone consultation. asbpsychotherapy.com #therapyforthewin #alwayslearning #virtualtherapy #ontariopsychotherapist #wegotyou #yougotthis
First session is done 👍🏻 11 left to do, woo #therapyforthewin
🌞 Summertime: when the sun shines, the grill sizzles, and family gatherings turn into an emotional rollercoaster ride! 🎢 But fear not, because we've got a secret weapon for you. Introducing therapy: the magical remedy that turns awkward family moments into hilarious stories for future generations! 🤪📚 Whether it's dealing with Uncle Bob's dad jokes or Aunt Linda's "helpful" advice, therapy helps us navigate the wild waters of family dynamics and heal any lingering trauma. 💦✨ So this summer, let's gather 'round the therapist's office instead of the backyard BBQ. Seek professional help to untangle those knots from your childhood or prevent new ones from forming. Your mental health will thank you, and hey, maybe next year family gatherings won't feel like a wild safari expedition! 🦁🌴 Remember, it takes strength and humor to survive those awkward reunions. Therapy can be your secret tool! #FamilyGatheringsCanBeEntertainingToo #TherapyForTheWin
We appreciate the doctor's effort to improve patients' mobility, pain, and overall wellness. Happy Doctor's Day to committed doctors for strengthening patient health. #doctorlife #doctorsday #nationaldoctorsday #doctorday #dayofthedoctor #doctorday2023 #doctors #doctordays #doctorlife #1stjuly #1stjuly2023 #doctordaypost #lifesavers #physiotherapy #StrengthThroughTherapy #RecoverAndExcel #PainFreeLiving #InjuryToWellness #ReviveThroughTherapy #TherapyForTheWin #GetBackToYourBest #BetterWithTherapy #vapi #flowphysio
The right therapist makes a world of difference when you're on your healing journey 🤣 #therealmvp #therapyforthewin
Cherish every moment. A well-intentioned yet potentially harmful sentiment. One that often leads to feelings of guilt or shame from new or seasoned Mothers, who are suffering in the postpartum period. The truth is, when Mothers are told to cherish every moment, it often leads them to discount their feelings. It can lead them to suffer in silence as they question whether or not they are a “good Mom” for feeling this way. “I’m so overwhelmed that I have a hard time caring for my baby, but I know I should just cherish every moment.” “My mental health is awful, but everyone keeps telling me to cherish every moment because they go by so fast.” We are here to tell you: not every moment is meant to be cherished. It’s okay to put your mental health first and ask for a break from baby. It’s okay to admit that some parts of the first year can be boring and lonely. It’s okay that you spent years/thousands trying to conceive and have moments where you miss your old life. If you are looking for permission to sit with your feelings WITHOUT the pressure to find a silver lining, you’ve got it. Parenting is hard enough without the extra guilt. Like, save, share or tag someone who needs the gentle reminder or permission not to cherish every moment of motherhood. #toxicpositivity #nosilverliningneeded #cherisheverymoment #therapistquote #therapyforthewin #realmotherhood #motherhoodunplugged #ppd #ppa #momlife #momstruggles #maternalmentalhealth #burnout #stressedoutmom #anxiousmom #mentalload #parenting #kids #moms #mothering #mentalhealth
Oh, Couples Therapy, the ultimate adventure for two! #RelationshipGoals, am I right? But seriously, folks, Couples Therapy can be a game-changer for your relationship. Not only can it help you communicate better, but it can also bring you closer together. #CommunicationIsKey #TeamworkMakesTheDreamWork Think of it as a workout for your relationship. You wouldn't go to the gym and only work out one arm, would you? #BalanceIsImportant. Couples Therapy is like doing squats for your relationship, building up those communication and problem-solving muscles. #StrongRelationshipsAreSexy Plus, it's a great excuse to spend quality time together. Because who doesn't love talking about their feelings for an hour every week? #DateNightGoals #TherapyIsTheNewNetflixAndChill And let's not forget the benefits for your mental health. Couples Therapy can help reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall happiness. #LessFightingMoreLoving #HealthyMindsHealthyRelationships So, why not give Couples Therapy a try? Your relationship (and your therapist) will thank you. #LoveWins #TherapyForTheWin
Teal Day encourages awareness of the importance of counseling and self-care for counselors as they enlighten their clients, colleagues and the greater public of the same. It recognizes counselors place in the national mental health conversation and the importance of debunking the stigma related to mental illness. It also challenges people to broaden their understanding of counseling in the prevention and management of mental health conditions. We love our BHTs and Peer Support and how they promote self care and growth with our patients. Show them some love today! #peersupportgroup #peersupportspecialist #recoverycoach #substanceabusecounseling #substanceabusedisorder #substanceabusecounselor #mentalhealthmatters #counselorawarenessmonth #behaviorhealth #bht #therapyforthewin #strengthincommunity #savinglives
Jack is giving his very FIRST presentation at school! His homework assignment was to create a timeline of important events in his life (he chose all events and photos). So overwhelmed with his progress and learning - it’s hard to believe that just 3 short years ago, he was almost completely non-verbal. #autismawarenessmonth #earlychildhoodeducation #therapyforthewin
Bajrang Bali's blessings help us in surviving Life's Pain and Flow -Physio help you with all kinds of body strain. . Visit our Center today to get the best treatment Address: 106 Saga Casa Complex, Vapi-Daman Main Road, Chala, Vapi - 396191, Gujarat More information call us : +91-99241 42055 +91-98247 70340 #pavanputrahanuman #hanumanjayanti2023 #rambhakthanuman #shrirambhakthanuman #hanumanjayanti #happyhanumanjayanti #indianfestivals #physiotherapycenter #physiotherapy #hanumandada #hanumanfestival #MoveBetterFeelBetter #RehabilitationForLife #StrengthThroughTherapy #RecoverAndExcel #PainFreeLiving #InjuryToWellness #ReviveThroughTherapy #TherapyForTheWin #GetBackToYourBest #BetterWithTherapy #vapi #flowphysio
My temporary therapist calls me “Champion” and my children “Fluff Balls” I’ve never met someone who makes me smile and laugh so much in one phone call 🤣 #grateful #noshameintherapy #therapyforthewin
Lots of people struggle with anxiety. It can be a paralyzing problem - if you experience it I feel for you and understand you. I see you 😘. Based on some of my own forays with anxiety I wrote a tracker to help people become aware of triggers, daily habits and self talk among other stuff that contributes. It’s very common - go easy on yourself and remember that sometimes anxiety can work for you, but most of the time you can counteract it with specific behaviors, self care habits and techniques. It’s available on Amazon, published under Victoria Bright, Ltd. I’ll put a link in my bio to my author page. Best wishes to you. If you really struggle with it, please seek out a psychotherapist for help. They are wonderful resources to get you feeling better. I used to be one and miss that kind of work sometimes. #anxietyawareness #anxiety #anxietyrelief #anxietysupport #anxietytracker #amazon #selfcare #selftalk #selftalkmatters #awareness #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealth #therapy #therapyforthewin #therapist
You know you’ve walked a hard path when your therapist confesses her heart is broken for you. I spent years struggling against a terrible eating disorder and now trying to forgive those who contributed to it and unlearning old ways of thinking and believing. I went into this process knowing it would be a difficult journey but oh so worth it. Eventually. Thank goodness for kitty cuteness and purr therapy. They love me for me and couldn’t care less about my weight. #catsofinstagram #catsagram #purrtherapy #pinknoseclub #everydayiscaturday #mentalhealthmatters #bewell #therapyforthewin #eatingdisorderrecovery #forgivenessheals #getouttamyway
Ever heard of the term 'Spiritual bypassing'? 👀 Well it is a term coined by Psychologist and Buddhist teacher John Welwood in 1984. It basically means using spirituality/religion unconsciously as a way to avoid or repress difficult emotions. It can involve using overly positive language in the face of difficulties, avoiding feelings of anger 😡and pretending things are fine when they are clearly not. Spiritual bypassing may show up differently depending on the situation. For example a friend who has recently experienced loss instead of asking how they are doing, you simply state "My thoughts and prayers are with you". 🙏🏽Or when someone has experienced an adverse event such as a divorce, they tell you "It's Gods plan" instead of sharing how they feel. Spirituality/religion 🛐 has been shown to improve well-being, including reducing depression and stress. 😩And people often turn to spirituality to restore hope, cope with distress, to find support and make sense of difficulties. However, using spiritual bypassing as a way to avoid dealing with/taking about complicated feelings can ultimately stifle growth and is not psychologically healthy. 😳 I'm certainly guilty of this and I'm challenging myself to step out from using the Bible/Christianity as a bandage 🩹and to really connect with peoples emotions/pain. In Scripture Jesus met people where they were and had those difficult conversations 💬, however He never left them the same. So here's a challenge to you, are you willing to sit with/share other peoples pain? 😥 That may be just what they need which will give them the courage to make it through another day. #Spiritualbypassing #Religionascoping #WhenSpiritualitybecomesACrutch #Realconversations #HumanExperiences #TherapyForTheWin #EmotionalBypassing #ReligionAsAvoidance #Therapy101 #Psychotherapy #EmotionalAvoidance #ReligionAndTherapy #HavingDifficultConversations #DepressionIsReal #copingWithLoss #InDenial #TraumaResponses #CopingWithGrief #DenialIsNotJustaRiverInEgypt #God'sPlan #ChristianBandage #LifeHappens #ThoughtsAndPrayers #DifficultConversations #SharingThePain #PsychologyAndChristianity #EmotionsMakeUsHuman
So here's part two of my therapy lessons... 👀 I had my first therapy session of the year recently and my therapist noted there's been a 'shift' in me. Last year I dug deeper than I had before in therapy which involved countless tears 😭, anger and almost quitting therapy. I say this as a reminder to keep showing up for yourself, your healing is at the other end of the process. 🔑✨ During the Christmas period while at home 🏡, I spoke to my mum about some of the 'cycles' that I noted in our family history. Her response was 'we need to break some patterns' and this feels like a step in the right direction. You may be the 'cycle breaker' in your family and that may be why things are hard for you. 🧐 Last year I had 6 sessions of free therapy through my work employee assistance programme (EAP). While it may not seem like many sessions, it really helped in my recovery journey 🎯. Free therapy is available and you can access this through the NHS (though waiting times vary), through your uni/college and/or work 🏢. So you may want to try this as an option! What other lessons have you learnt from therapy? Drop your comments below 👇🏾 TherapyLessons #TherapyInsights #TherapyForTheWin #BreakingCycles #GenerationalHealing #BreakingcyclesofTrauma #BlackMentalHealth #IntergenerationalHealing #BlackGirlsHeal #BlackMenHeal #MentalHealthAwareness #BrownGirlsSelfCare #BlackBoysNeedTherapyToo #MentalHealthmatters #HolisticHealing #forTheculture
Therapy, therapy, therapy... it's become quite a 'buzzword' in mainstream culture. But what exactly is it?! Psychotherapy... which is commonly referred to as 'talking therapy' 🗯️is used to describe a variety of evidence based treatments that can help to identify and change difficult thoughts, behaviours and emotions. 🥺 I have had the opportunity to sit on both sides of the couch 🛋️ (metaphorically speaking) and last year I made the decision to fully commit to my own healing process. Part of that involved finding a suitable therapist that could help me work through my own issues. 😳 So here's a few things that I learnt along the way. During the year, I had 4 different therapists and I finally feel that my current therapist is the right 'fit'. 👩🏾⚕️I say this to encourage you not to be afraid to change therapists if it is not working for you. 👀 Attending therapy regularly has helped me to identify patterns/cycles in my life that were keeping me 'stuck'. I must admit it's not easy to have a mirror 🪞held up at me, but doing so allows you to work towards breaking those cycles in therapy. 🔄 I've learnt to trust the process despite my progress feeling 'slow' at times. 😳 This has involved doing the 'work' inside and outside of therapy which has included journaling, forgiving others and doing inner child work ❤️🩹 As we start a new year, I would encourage you to start/cotinue your own healing journey and that may involve going to therapy💆🏾♀️While therapy is not the only solution, it is definitely worth making the investment in yourself. I can say this your future self (and younger self) will thank you for it! ☺️ #BreakingCycles #InnerChildWounds #LifeChanging #GenerationalCycles #HealingTraumaWounds# #TherapyLessons #TherapyisLifeChanging #TherapyInsights #CycleBreaker# #DepressionCycles #ShameCycles #NoMoreCycles #Anxiety101 #BreakingGenerationalTrauma #TherapyInsights #TherapyForTheWin #BreakingTheStigma #GenerationalHealing #TriggerWarning #BlackTrauma #BlackMentalHealth #IntergenerationalHealing #BlackGirlsHeal #BlackMenHeal #MentalHealthAwareness #BrownGirlsSelfCare #BlackBoysNeedTherapyToo #MentalHealthmatters #MindBodySoul #HolisticHealing#
Being more giving in The New Year. Are you practicing charity or is it rooted in something more? #therapyforthewin #newyearsresolutions #julialmft
Frozen realm. Frozen music. Zero human interference. #blisstown #eacapetheheat #perspective #solitude #therapyforthewin #landscapephotography #landscape #landscapelovers #naturephotography #naturalworld #icykingdom #frozenmusic
True Story #therapy #gototherapy #pleasegototherapy #youneedtherapy #therapyforthewin
Grounding is a coping skill that can be used to help decrease anxiety and relieve stress. Grounding helps you to be in the present. There are many ways to "ground" yourself. Some of the best ways include breathing exercises, which I will discuss in later posts. One way to ground yourself is to: Push your feet into the ground. Feel the pressure of the floor on your feet. Are you wearing shoes? What sensation is occurring? Press your toes one at a time against the floor. How does that feel? Press your heel firmly against the floor. Focus on your feet being present against the earth. Reflect on this exercise and if it helped you to feel more present. #grounding #mentalhealth #anxiety #anxietyawareness #therapistofig #therapistsofinstagram #mentalhealthaware #therapyforthewin #depressionsucks #anxiety #instagood #instadaily #momreels #trendingreels
Psychology. Counselling. Therapy. These words seem to be on our radar a lot more than they ever were; they've made their way into everyday conversations. But what are they? Why are they important? How do they work? 👆 Check out the pics above to find out a bit more about play therapy, individual therapy and cognitive behaviour therapy. #therapyforthewin #whatistherapy
I joined Emmaus Road as a trainee while in my master's program and was lucky enough to be asked to stay on as an associate once I completed my degree. I have since stayed with Emmaus and worked to become a fully licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as part of this family over the years. I specialize in working with trauma and helping people recover and fight to regain their lives from the impact of these traumatic events. #emmausroadcounseling #healing #healingjourney #trauma #hope #healingfromtrauma #traumabasedcounseling #traumafocusedhealing #therapyforthewin #therapist #icanhelp #counseling #christiancounseling #seekhelp
Since the 2020 pandemic, time has just been a construct. This year has been filled with learning & healing, in between my depression naps, which is freaking hard work. Please take a minute to breath & give yourself a little extra love today. #TraumaSucks #SelfCareIsTheBestCare #PinkHairDontCare #FireyRedHead #MermaidHair #HealingIsAJourney #TherapyForTheWin
In life, we will all experience defeat. It is how you handle it that defines your character. There is no shame in asking for help when you have been defeated, it is one of the strongest things you can do. #therapyforthewin #prismaticcounseling #socialworkmusings
Leo got into K4 for the next school year!!! For those of you that have followed along for awhile, you know what a long road it has been getting him resources. This time two years ago, this didn’t even seem like a possibility. I’m so grateful he’ll be in school with kiddos his own age 💜 #proudmama #speechtherapy #braveboy #therapyforthewin #preschoolherewecome #babymonster #thisis4 #leofox
When I was a kid I wanted to be an astronaut. I went to space camp, learned the stars, plants moons, how to calculate the weight of a black hole. Unfortunately being 4 ft. 10 inches tall would be something I can’t change about myself that had me automatically disqualified from ever being Sally Ride or Neil Armstrong. The amazing Katie Lynn found these and got them for me. So here is a nod to radical acceptance, DBT. and the example I use when we talk about being limited by our biology. #dbt #marshalinehan #radicalacceptance #distresstolerance #dragonflykc #dragonflyhealth #dbtkc #somaticexperiencing #narm #therapistlife #skillstraining #lovemyjob #traumahealing #recoveryispossible #therapyforthewin
Psychology. Counselling. Therapy. These words seem to be on our radar a lot more than they ever were; they've made their way into everyday conversations. But what are they? Why are they important? How do they work? 👆 Check out the pics above to find out a bit more about play therapy, individual therapy and cognitive behaviour therapy. #therapyforthewin #whatistherapy
Today, let’s talk about #therapy I know that for many, the thought of picking up the phone and calling a stranger to let them know you’ve been struggling is so overwhelming and anxiety producing that you put it off! The good news is that we, as mental health professionals, really understand and acknowledge that difficulty for you. The bad news is that we can’t help if you don’t call! I often talk with my clients about writing out a basic script for those anxiety producing phone calls. Or if that mental health professional’s website has an email address listed, send an email for the initial contact! Therapy is helpful, in large part, due to the therapeutic relationship between the client and therapist. I tell all of my clients in their very first session that I may not be the right fit for them and that’s ok. I encourage them to let me know if they’re feeling that way so that I may either make an adjustment to my therapy approach or make an informed referral to a colleague. I hope you’ll take away from today’s post that it’s not necessary for you to hold on to all of those scary and/or confusing thoughts by yourself. There is hope and help! #therapyforthewin #therapycanhelp #mentalhealthprofessional #mentalhealththerapy #mayismentalhealthawarenessmonth #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #mentalhealthawarenessisimportant #educateaboutmentalhealth #learnaboutmentalhealth #breakthestigma #therapy #talktherapy #psychotherapy #togetherwegetthru #youareworthy #mentalhealthawareness #endthestigma #stopthestigma #breakthestigma #therapy #talktherapy #psychotherapy #feelenrightcounseling
Straight boys, I’m basically your wing man and I’m giving you all the tips. You’re welcome. #everyoneneedstherapy #therapyforthewin
Life with 3 under 3. Disclaimer: This is a joke. I feel like I sometimes need to clarify that these days. With that said, motherhood can be both a beautiful miracle AND a circus sh*t show…..at least at my house! #3under3 #twinmom #therapyforthewin #protherapy #motherhoodjokes #momjokes #momsofmultiples
Is this insensitive? . How dare I post a happy picture with beautiful flowers when there’s a war going on?!? . Right? I’ve been kinda blocked posting all week as I think of so many people losing everything because of one power hungry despot. It makes me literally sick to my stomach. . But the truth is my sympathy suffering isn’t making anything better for anyone else. . In fact the opposite is true. I’m able to make more of a contribution to help the planet in my small way (mostly prayers and reiki) if I’m in a state of gratitude, joy and light. These positive mood states change our body chemistry and actually increase our performance level! Try that next time your on the #pickleball court! . To be honest, its been hard for me to connect with positive states the past week. . I’ve literally pulled out all the stops and started utilizing literally every tool I have in my tool box to stay positive. . I’m not a naturally positive person believe it or not! I have to really work at it! . What about you? Are you an eternal optimist that always feels upbeat or is it hard for you? . Over time, you can actually rewire your brain for greater positivity just by focusing on increasingly positive thoughts. . Want more information on how? Get in touch! It could change your life! . #anxietysupport #depressionhelp #positivevibes #gratitudepractice #therapyforthewin
All you need is love. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ If you’re missing it.... even if ONLY YOU are willing to work on our relationship...WE CAN HELP YOU!!! We actually have counselor’s who SPECIALIZE in working with relationships when there is only 1 person in counseling.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #relationshipgoals, #marriageandfamilytherapy, #therapyiscool, #mattersoftheheart, #mattersoftheheartcounseling, #relationshippriority, #youremynumber1, #keystohappiness #dontwaituntilitstoolate, #therapyforthewin, #mentalhealthawareness, #killthestigma, #MOTHCounseling
Feels good to ACTUALLY believe it now…so if don’t like it, FUCK OFF 🤷🏻♀️🖕🏻 #beginningtolovemyself #tattooedmomma #therapyforthewin #everylittlething
Did you know? Guilt 😏 involves a sense of regret about something i.e 'I made a mistake'. whereas shame 😔involves regret about an aspect of yourself i.e 'I am a mistake'. Guilt and shame are often conflated with one another, so it's important to know the difference (although they can both co- exist)! 😳 Wait... what is toxic shame? This is when you receive messages (often from parents 👀 or peers) that you are a disappointment and that they disapprove not just of your actions, but of you as a person. They may say things like 'You are a failure' or 'I am disappointed in you' which leads to feelings of inadequacy or unworthiness. 😑 One way to resolve feelings of guilt and shame is through self compassion and self forgiveness 🙏🏽. Self compassion is about showing yourself patience and being tolerant of your own shortcomings. Self forgiveness is about separating who you are from the mistakes you have made. ❌ Recognising we are human and we all make mistakes can help you be self- compassionate🫂. Remember no matter what you've done it does not make you a flawed human or a failure. Forgiving yourself also makes it easier to forgive those who have hurt you. Finally love yourself and know you are loved by God ❤️ If you find this helpful do Like 👍🏾 Comment 💬 Share 🗣 and Save 📁 #NoLongerAshamed #ToxicShame #NoShameZone #GuiltySecrets #SelfCompassion #SelfForgiveness #Therapy101 #LessonsFromTherapy #ForgivessisKey #GuiltFreeLiving #PaidItAll #Redeemed #Mindfulness #UnpackingToxicShame #IAmNotMyMistakes #HiddenEmotions #ShameCycle #AnxietySucks #TraumaBonding #HealingChildhoodTrauma #HealingTheCommunity #TherapyForTheWin #CulturalCompetence #BlackTherapists #BlackProfessionals #MentalHealthAwareness #ForTheCulture #ChildhoodWounds#
There’s been lots of progress since I last posted about my kitchen reno but this is the latest. I am in a span of doing lots of little projects to move everything along. The last big job will be tiling the backsplash. I love the way every little win feels like a big accomplishment. The little tasks usually don’t take long to do and they’re not complicated but they are very visible. The hours we spent leveling the base cabinets and every other step in between are not visible until the doors go on and the cabinets look “finished.” in keeping with my kitchen reno mental health theme, this is the way it is with therapy too. There’s a saying in therapy: slow is fast. There are incremental changes we make along the way that seem to be inconsequential until one day we find ourselves speaking out or acting out a boundary without any effort at all and we realize we’ve made some big changes. #kitchenrenovation #kitchenorganization #diy #lovethatblue #mentalhealth #therapyforthewin #traumarecovery #itsthelittlethings
False - Thoughts are not facts! We have a stream of consciousness that is directed by our moods, experiences and beliefs 🤔 However, our thoughts often shape our reality, as actions and behaviours are directed by our subconscious mind. We also have a cognitive 🧠 bias to think negative thoughts! So it's super important that we are intentional about thinking more helpful thoughts 💭 Try this technique to help challenge unhelpful thoughts: 1. Identify your thoughts (try keeping a thought diary for a week) 📔 2. Challenge any negative thoughts by finding the evidence for and against that thought ⚖️ 3. Use this evidence to change the thought into a more helpful one 👍🏾 E.g Old Thought: I am a failure 😞 Evidence for: I failed my Maths test Evidence against: I've passed other tests New thought: Although I failed my maths test, I am not a failure! 💥 "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind..." Romans 12:2 NIV #ThoughtsAreNotFacts #BrainTraining #RenewedMindset #CognitiveBias #ThoughtChallenging101 #CognitiveBehaviouralTherapy #TherapyForTheWin #GodAndTherapy #TransformedMindset #ThinkGoodThoughts #Anxiety101 #ThoughtDiary #BeatingDepression #AnxietyManagement #CopingStrategies #BlackMentalHealth #BlackConsciousness #SubconsciousMind #ThinkingTraps #TherapyForBlackGirls #BlackBoysNeedTherapyToo #BlackBoyJoy #BrownGirlsHeal #BlackMenHealing #BodySoulAndSpirIt #CulturalCompetence #BlackTherapists #BlackMindsMatter #BlackProfessionals#
Therapy is rich and layered, so this is only one sliver of what you get in therapy. I believe therapy shouldn’t be seen as a way to get through a rough time but we self preservation for it all. It’s sometimes hard to talk about and express feelings. You don’t have to be strong and go through it alone. #therapy #therapyforthewin #selfpreservation #barewitness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #thehealingisinthefeeling #feelittohealit
Gotta remember to give yourself some grace #divorceisnotfortheweak #therapyforthewin #everylittlething #giveyourselfgrace
Work I’m progress…. #therapyforthewin #learningtolovemyself #everylittlething
HALT 🛑- Verb 'to bring or come to an abrupt stop'. noun .'a suspension of movement or activity, typically a temporary one.' Today's post is about four risk states that can impact your mood and behaviour. These 4 states are Hunger, Anger, Loneliness and Tiredness. 😴😔 Ever been 'Hangry' I.e angry when you're hungry or 'Slangry' i.e. grumpy when you're sleep deprived/tired? I know that latter one is me for sure 🙃 Well... there's actually a science backed reason that you feel like this! When you have not eaten your blood sugar levels drop 📉and this leads to cortisol (stress hormone) being released which makes you more irritable/aggressive. Similarly when you are sleep deprived there is a dampening of the areas associated with mood regulation leading to angry outbursts. 😡 It's important to check in with yourself daily and listen to your body as it knows what you need. Do you need to eat 🌮🥪regularly, identify your anger triggers, connect with others or get a good nights sleep 😴? Here's a gentle reminder to HALT today... #HALT #Hangry #Slangry #FourRiskStates #KnowYourTriggers #REMsleep #ConnectWithOthers #ListenToYourBody #MindsetisEverything #CheckInWithYourself #Therapy101 #TherapyInsights #TherapyForTheWin #Depression101 #AnxietyMatters #Anxiety101 #TriggerWarning #BlackMindsMatter #BlackMentalHealth #MelaninMindset #BlackGirlsHeal #BlackMaleMentalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #BlackBoyJoy #BlackGirlMagic #BrownGirlsSelfCare #BlackBoysNeedTherapyToo #MentalHealthmatters#