COUNSELING BLOG
ANXIETY: MAKE WORRY WORK FOR YOU
From a clinical counseling perspective, generalized anxiety disorder can be treated through a holistic approach of psychotherapy, internal messaging reprocessing, relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and lifestyle analysis. Identifying triggers and precipitating events can be key to finding the root cause of the anxiety and strengthening new learned management skills.
BUILDING EMPATHY: CREATING WINDOWS, MIRRORS & DOORS
As we break bread at the outdoor cafes during reopening, I’m regularly reminded of the gift of conversation and, more specifically, the opportunity to connect in celebration with others. At the same time, it is important to consider how we will demonstrate empathy for those less fortunate at this time of the year when some are, indeed, so fortunate and others are so clearly struggling? Taking this time of reflection to advance our collective understanding and appreciation for the realities of others will make the experience of the Thanksgiving feast that much richer.
LGBTQAI: BUILDING CONFIDENCE AND DEFINING MEANING
It is my belief that we can truly find balance through unpacking and possessing old messages and strengthening our self esteem. My therapeutic approach with LGBTQAI identified clients is affirming and strength based. My approach is integrative and together we customize exercises that will nurture a variety of life circumstances.
As an identified gay therapist, it is a privilege to honor your story and work together to define new meaning. Whatever the transition or life focus you are experiencing, it is unique and I look forward to leveraging your strengths as you grow confidence within! Reach out today for a consultation.
DEPRESSION: BREAKING STIGMA AND LIFTING SHAME
Depression can sometimes have a debilitating stigma. One in five individuals living in the U.S. experience mental illness and around 60% never seek out treatment. 98% of respondents of a recent world wide study agree that there is a stigma around mental illness. Many individuals live with the symptoms of fatigue, feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and helplessness, loss of interest in things once pleasurable, persistent sadness or “empty” feelings without receiving the support or assistance that is crucial for balanced life function.
GOAL ACHIEVING: FROM THIN AIR, TO MIND, TO PAPER
Goal setting and achieving is a process that takes more than planning in the mind. There are tangible steps to craft a goal that will have impact on your well-being. In my experience, the most effective goals are written in the SMART format. SMART is an acronym an acronym that you can use to guide your writing.
STRENGTH-BASED: LEVERAGING STRENGTHS FOR LASTING CHANGE
Currently, trauma-informed practices are taking the student services and education landscape by storm. Close to 60% of adults report experiencing abuse or other difficult family circumstances during childhood. At any point during the school day, teachers will interact with students that have experienced acute, chronic, or complex trauma. Acute trauma results from a single event whereas chronic trauma results from a repeated and prolonged experience. Complex trauma results from repeated and varied exposure to a multitude of traumatic events.
WELCOME TO LUMINARY SOLUTIONS
Welcome to the Luminary Solutions blog! This will be a place where various mental health and education topics will be discussed and addressed.