Here we are again experiencing another government shutdown. Shutdowns affect the entire country, but disproportionately impact us here in the DMV, including in Montgomery County, due to the high volume of government employees who live in this area. Before becoming a therapist, I used to be one of them, and I have felt firsthand the… Continue reading Coping with the Stress of a Government Shutdown
Starting therapy is a courageous and meaningful step toward personal growth, healing, and self-understanding. One of the most important factors in setting yourself up for success, especially in the early stages, is weekly therapy. Meeting with your therapist on a weekly basis provides the structure, support, and consistency needed to build momentum and make meaningful… Continue reading Why Weekly Therapy Sessions Matter – Especially at the Start
While social media often showcases picture-perfect relationships, true love requires ongoing effort, open communication, and a genuine commitment to growth together. Valentine’s Day may have come and gone, but the opportunity to nurture and strengthen your relationship lasts all year long. Despite what candy and card manufacturers might suggest, love isn’t defined by a single… Continue reading Creating Lasting Love: 7 Keys to Building a Healthy Relationship
Political anxiety is more than just stress over the news — it’s the deep distress, uncertainty, and even helplessness that comes with watching policies unfold that directly impact our lives and communities. With a background in both politics and mental health, I’ve seen firsthand how the political landscape influences our emotions, stress levels, and overall… Continue reading How to Cope with Political Anxiety: Mental Health Strategies for Uncertain Times
For the first time, my team made the playoffs this year. My nerves were on edge, fear of failure from past seasons whispered in my ear. However, I couldn’t check on any of it. I had chosen this night to go camping. With no cell signal, there was quite literally nothing I could do. No more trades, no more strategy, no moves to squeeze another home run out of my team. Nothing to do but wait until tomorrow. What does this have anything to do with election season, you may ask? Well in preparation for the upcoming election, it is important to embrace the actions you can take ahead of time in order to minimize the experience of regret. And it is equally important to plan ahead for anxiety on the night of the election once there is quite literally nothing else to do.
There are so many types of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) treatments and it can be difficult to pull apart the differences in order to decide which one is best for you. The great thing about there being so many types of PTSD treatment is that there are so many heavily researched options for people… Continue reading Prolonged Exposure Therapy: Taking Your Life Back From PTSD
Let's talk about the fascinating therapy approach known as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (or EMDR, for short). It involves a structured progression through eight distinct phases. Sound like a lot?! Well therapy doesn't have to be intimidating or boring. I like to think of these phases as different parts of an exciting opportunity to embark on a journey of personal growth with the guidance of a skilled therapist. So, let's buckle up and embark on this ride through the eight phases of EMDR therapy.
Being a caregiver is a rewarding position that nourishes the soul, but with a tradeoff. Taking care of a loved one or patient can be overwhelmingly taxing, both physically and mentally. Caregiver stress can take a toll on your overall health and well-being, leading to burnout. Here are some risk factors, signs, and suggestions to reduce caregiver stress.
