What Is the Impact of Silliness on Mental Health?
Are you curious about the benefits of silliness? Call today to learn how our therapists can help you find ways to improve your mental health!
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Minimizing Wedding Planning Stress: Tips from a Relationship Counselor
By: Natasha Cooke, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by: Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S, CCTP, LCDC Getting engaged is an exhilarating time. You’ve unlocked another level of achievement in your relationship, see a bright future on the horizon, and hopefully created a beautiful core memory with your...
Grounding Techniques for Adolescents
By: Simrah Wasim, MS, LPC Associate, NCC Supervised by: Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S, CCTP, LCDC There are many emotional ups and downs, social pressures, and the challenges of self-discovery during any phase in life, but especially with adolescents. With so many internal and external factors,...
The Benefits of Therapy for Children with High-Functioning Autism
Are you seeking therapy for your child with high-functioning autism? Call today to learn how our therapists can help!
How Therapy Can Help Children and Teens Struggling with Depression
By: Jennifer Ponce de Leon, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by: Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S, CCTP, LCDC When a child or teen is struggling with depression, it can be a tough and confusing time, both for them and the people who care about them. Depression in...
Communicating Your Needs in a Relationship
By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC Relationships are hard! They require more energy than you would think. Many times, communication in a relationship is complicated. There can be many reasons why communication gets hard in relationships. Fear of Rejection Not Knowing Needs Assuming They Know Infidelity...
Why is Emotional Intelligence Important?
Are you looking to build your child's emotional intelligence? Call today to learn how our therapists can help!
Parenting With Consequences
By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC I truly cannot say it enough: Parenting is a hard job! Most parents want the best for their children. But that can be hard if children need help understanding or have difficulty following the rules. This blog is a continuation...
Mental Health Check-in Materials for School Counselors
By: Rachel Fowler, MS, LPC, NCC Social-emotional learning is gaining more attention throughout the educational system. Social-emotional learning includes activities that enhance children's social, emotional, and communication skills. Overall, a curriculum should be created to enhance children's emotional intelligence and integrate mental health into their...
Individual Relationship Counseling
By: Natasha Cooke, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Individual Relationship Counseling If you want to improve your relationship or marriage but your partner is refusing to go to couples therapy, this article is for you. So, you’ve heard of couples therapy,...
Understanding Attachment Science
By: Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Understanding Attachment Science: How It Shapes Children's Development Attachment science is a captivating field. It is the study of the dynamics of emotional bonds between a caregiver and a child. Attachment is key...
Adjusting From High School To College
By: Krista Garcia, Practicum Student Supervised by: Cheri Locke, Ph.D., MA, LPC-S, CST, CCTP Transitioning from High School to College, Now What!? You've been accepted into a college—CONGRATULATIONS! Now, you're probably wondering where to go from here. Half the struggle was being accepted into the...
How to Reignite a Dwindling Spark in Your Marriage
By: Natasha Cooke, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by: Melissa Barton, MA, LPC Associate, LCDC, CCTP No matter how hard we try, the spark just eventually dies out in a marriage, right? Wrong. Thriving marriages still feel the spark 5, 10, 20, or 30 years later....
Processing Grief with Children
By: Simrah Wasim, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by: Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, CCTP Experiencing a traumatic event such as the death of a loved one can be an overwhelming process for people of all ages. However, this can be especially difficult for children. Grief...
How Therapy Can Help You Conquer OCD
By: Jennifer Ponce de Leon, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by: Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, CCTP Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can feel like a relentless loop of thoughts and behaviors, but guess what? Therapy can help you turn that loop into something more like a victory...
Parenting Distress: Exploring Your Past to Parent the Future
By: Caroline Neshyba, M. Ed, LPC Associate Supervised by: Cheri Locke, Ph.D., MA, LPC-S, CST, CCTP Parenting is a journey that often leads us to revisit our own pasts. Have you ever experienced a moment with your child that brought up something for you? As...
How To Manage Children Who Self-Harm
By: Alexia Cabreras, MS, LPC Associate, NCC Supervised by: Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, CCTP Parents…I know this isn't an easy topic to talk about, but it's one that's important to have. Self-harm is the act of hurting your own body by inflicting pain or...
Feelings Quiz Material for School Counselors
By: Rachel Fowler, MS, LPC, NCC Social-emotional learning (SEL) is gaining more attention throughout the educational system. SEL can be explained by activities that enhance children's social, emotional, and communication skills. Overall, a curriculum should be created to enhance children's emotional intelligence and integrate mental...
Supporting a Friend: A Therapist’s Perspective
By: Natasha Cooke, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Supporting a Friend: A Therapist’s Perspective Is someone that you care about struggling emotionally or mentally through a difficult time in their life? Do you want to help but aren’t sure how? As...
Finding Balance In Parenting Styles
By: M. Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Nurturing Healthy Child Development Understanding different parenting styles is crucial for cultivating healthy parent-child relationships. Various parenting styles have different characteristics and have various effects on children. Let's delve into the world of parenting styles and discover the importance...
How to Know if a Child in Your Classroom Needs Therapy
By: Simrah Wasim, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S How to Know if a Child in Your Classroom Needs Therapy Has a child in your class ever continued to throw a fit even though nothing seems wrong? Has a student ever skipped...
Understanding Post-Infidelity Syndrome: Its Impact on Families
By Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Infidelity Infidelity can be a deeply painful experience for a family. It can shatter the trust and stability that has been built between the members of the family. The immediate aftermath of an...
A Healthy Relationship With Your Teen: How To Build It
By: Alexia Cabreras, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Parents, do you feel like you're at a constant impasse with your teens? I bet it feels like everything you do is an issue! Frankly…it could be you are lacking a healthy relationship...
The Power of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
By: Jennifer Ponce de Leon, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S The Power of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy When you think of the word "change," what comes to mind first? Most likely, it was a negative thought. Was I right? Change is...
Identifying Relationship Red Flags in Yourself
By: Natasha Cooke, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Are you single and looking to learn how you can finally begin a healthy and secure relationship? If so, as a relationship therapist myself, I have some valuable info for you. What Are...
What is Play Therapy?
By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC, CATP The words play therapy often come up when we talk about helping children with their emotions. But what is play therapy? As adults, we can have a predetermined thought of what therapy looks like for kids. Therapy for kids...
Calling all High School Students!
By: Alexia Cabreras MS, LPC Associate & Simrah Wasim MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Calling all High School Students! Let's face i t…s ummer is ove r…w hen you finally thought you had nothing to worry about, here we go .....
Empowering Kids: The Importance of Coping Tools for Anxiety
By Jennifer Ponce de Leon, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S The Importance of Coping Tools for Anxiety As a therapist, I've seen firsthand the impact that anxiety can have on young minds. From the flutter of nervous butterflies before a big...
Summer Plans For Teens
By: Alexia Cabreras, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Summer is finally here! So what does that mean? It means having a lot of free time and likely not enough plans…my job as a therapist is to encourage you to have a...
Failure to Launch Syndrome
By: M. Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Failure to Launch Syndrome: What is it and What are the Top 3 Reasons that Lead to it? The journey from adolescence to adulthood is often considered a seamless transition. Most children...
4 Happiness Hormones That You Need to Know
By: Natasha Cooke, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S What are happiness hormones? Happiness hormones are those that help us reduce anxiety and depression; they boost our mood. There are four hormones commonly referenced as “happiness hormones”: serotonin, oxytocin, dopamine, and endorphins....
Unlocking the Secrets to What Causes Burnout
By: M. Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Unlocking the Secrets to What Causes Burnout In today's fast-paced world, burnout has become all too common. It affects all types of individuals and spans various professions. Everybody, from corporate executives to...
What Is a Love Language?
By: Natasha Cooke, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Most people have probably heard the term “love languages” by now. And if not, don’t fret; I’m here to break it down for you. As a couple and marriage counselor, I can tell...
Setting Goals with Children
By: Simrah Wasim, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Why are goals important for children? It is essential to set goals with children. This helps increase their self-esteem and creates productive behaviors and positive attitudes. Goals also start positive habit-making at an...
Anger Management: The Crucial Role of Teaching Children
By: M. Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Anger Management: The Crucial Role of Teaching Children In the dynamic journey of childhood development, one often overlooked aspect is the crucial skill of learning to manage one's anger. Teaching children to...
Parts Work for Inner Conflict
Understanding Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Parts Work Are you struggling with inner conflict? Past trauma? Just understanding yourself? Parts Work can help! What is IFS Parts Work? Are you struggling with inner conflict, past trauma, or just understanding yourself? Internal Family Systems (IFS) can...
Mental Health in the Hispanic Community
By: Alexia Cabreras, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Mental Health in the Hispanic Community As a Hispanic myself, I have spent countless years surrounded by friends and family who shy away from talking about their mental health. Growing up in a...
Why LGBTQ+ Support in Therapy is Essential
By: Jennifer Ponce de Leon, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S As you embark on your path toward self-discovery and healing, it's crucial to recognize the importance of LGBTQ+ support within the therapeutic journey. Your identity, experiences, and struggles are unique and...
Effective Communication in Marriage: Key Strategies for Couples
By: Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Effective Communication Effective communication is the cornerstone of a healthy and thriving marriage. Nurturing strong communication skills within relationships is vital to a relationship. So, let’s talk about key strategies that can transform...
Understanding the Difference Between Little and Big Trauma
By: M. Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Understanding the nuances between "little" and "big" trauma is crucial for addressing and helping to heal from these experiences. Understanding the distinctions between little traumas and big traumas can help you and...
They Pressed My Buttons in Our Relationship
By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC, CATP They Pressed My Buttons Many times in a relationship, it can feel like your partner is pressing your buttons on purpose. What I mean by this is that it can feel like your partner is intentionally doing things to...
What Happens in Therapy?
By: Natasha Cooke, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S What Happens in Therapy? Therapy is all just talking, right? Not exactly. Although mental health therapy is on the rise, many people are still unsure as to what counseling truly is. So, what...
Teen Girl Group
By: Alexia Cabreras, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Are you a teen girl aged 14-17 years old? If this is you ... you've found the right place to be . Group counseling isn't exactly what you may be thinking; it's not...
The Power of Play
By: Simrah Wasim, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S The Power of Play Playtime – although it sounds like play only applies to children, it is important for people of all ages. It is a vital ingredient for a happy, healthy, and...
Understanding Loneliness: An Epidemic in 2024
By: Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Considering all the activity that the United States has to offer and amidst all our vibrant communities, there exists a silent struggle among people today. We are dealing with an epidemic of loneliness....
Benefits of Premarital Counseling
By: Alexia Cabreras, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-A Have you heard of premarital counseling before? If you have, chances are you may be seeking to take your relationship to the next level and tie the knot with your significant other. When...
Traveling for Our Mental Health
By: Alexia Cabreras, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S I think we can all agree if we had all sorts of money, traveling would be on many of our bucket lists. If you have the opportunity to travel, do it! Here's why....
What is Divorce Counseling?
By: Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S What is Divorce Counseling? Divorce counseling is a specialized therapy that offers guidance and support to individuals navigating the challenges of divorce or separation. This type of counseling will involve a trained therapist...
Seeing a Therapist or a Friend?
By: Alexia Cabreras, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Many of us have a good friend we turn to when we face hardships in our lives. This person is typically someone we trust and has a reputation of being a good listener....
Preventing Teen Dating Violence
By: M. Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Preventing Teen Dating Violence Your Teens and Developing Healthy Relationship Teen dating violence is a pressing issue that affects adolescents and can have lasting negative impacts. Raising awareness and taking proactive steps...
Three Tips to Help Your Perfectionist Child Worry Less
By: Rachel Fowler, MS, LPC, NCC Three Tips to Help Your Perfectionist Child Worry Less Perfectionist children tend to have a fixed mindset. Children with fixed mindsets often set high standards to meet perfection and avoid judgment. They also have a strong focus and rumination...
Hallmarks of an Effective Counselor
By: Natasha Cooke, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Hallmarks of an Effective Counselor The thought of beginning therapy can be daunting and overwhelming. Especially when you consider, there may be dozens or even hundreds of therapists available near you or online....
EMDR Therapy
By: Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Empower Healing: EMDR Therapy for Trauma and Anxiety What is EMDR Therapy? EMDR therapy, short for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a specialized psychotherapeutic approach designed to alleviate distress associated with traumatic...
Couples Counseling – What Are The Types and Who’s It For?
By: Natasha Cooke, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Couples Counseling – What Are The Types and Who’s It For? Does a couple have to wait until they are on the brink of divorce to go to couples counseling? The short answer...
Children and Resiliency
By: Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Children and Resiliency What is resiliency in children? Resilience in children is the ability to bounce back from stressors in life, such as everyday stress, adversity, failure, life challenges, or even trauma. Most...
Galentines for the girls
By: Alexia Cabreras, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Calling ALL the gals…single, taken, married, or in complicated relationships…2024 is THE year of Galentines for all the girlies out there! As a therapist, I wholeheartedly support girls getting together with their closest...
Effective Communication in Relationships
By: Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MS, LPC-S Effective Communication in Relationships What is the key to a thriving relationship? The key to a thriving relationship is effective communication. So, let's talk about what effective communication looks like. You will Discover...
Counseling vs. Psychology
By: Natasha Cooke, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Have you ever wondered what the difference was, if any, between counseling and psychology? Maybe you’ve considered beginning therapy but can’t quite decide whether you want to see a psychologist or a counselor....
Building a Positive Self-Confidence Mantra for Kids
By: Rachel Fowler, MS, LPC, NCC Building a positive self-confidence mantra for kids is a simple way to integrate mental health into your home. Repetition of positive self-confidence-building statements is more important than you would imagine for your child's development. The more a child hears...
Dinner Table Conversations
By: Alexia Cabreras, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Dinner Table Conversations The dinner table is a sacred place for many. Sometimes, it’s the only chance we get to catch up with our loved ones. Many times, as people, we don’t recognize...
Is Therapy Worth It?
By: Natasha Cooke, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Is therapy worth the effort? If you're wondering whether mental health therapy is worth it, you're like millions of other Americans. Perhaps you've been wanting to begin therapy, but you're a bit skeptical....
Positivity in Parenting
By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC, CATP Positivity in Parenting Parenting is hard! Many times, we might need to learn how to handle a situation best. Sometimes, we react first and then ask questions. Others might explode at times. Different parents parent differently. That is okay....
What is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
By Janelle Schlueter, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP Chances are you have heard people say, "I have OCD; I need things to be neat and tidy." While it can be frustrating to be preoccupied with a desire for neatness, it's not Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Let's...
Why Plants Improve Our Mental Health
By: Natasha Cooke, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Why Plants Improve Our Mental Health Do you love plants? Were you someone who jumped on the COVID plant parent bandwagon and just can’t get enough? You might be trying to justify your...
Managing Your Mental Health During Christmas
By: Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Stress at Christmas Christmas is generally a time of celebration, meeting with family and friends, eating good food, and enjoying festivities. However, for those who struggle with mental health, the Christmas season...
Virtual Well-being Check-ins for College Students
By: Rachel Fowler, MS, LPC, NCC Virtual Well-being Check-ins for College Students Virtual well-being check-ins for college students can help monitor and prevent symptoms of mental health disorders. Everyone struggles a little when facing new and uncertain situations, and college students are no different. College...
Goals that Stick
By: Carey Robey, MS, LPC, NCC Goals that Stick Sometimes it feels like my to-do list is endless. This list may include minor things like simple house chores or errands, or big things, like making progress toward health, relationships, or finances. I am consistently on...
Journaling: Unorthodox Methods
By: Natasha Cooke, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Do you dread journaling? If you’ve been going to therapy, it’s likely your therapist suggested journaling as a coping skill. However, you may have rolled your eyes at that suggestion because you despise...
Mental Health Benefits of Celebrating Thanksgiving
By Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC-A Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S There is so much to like about Thanksgiving! Getting to enjoy delicious food, spending time with people you love, and sharing what you are feeling thankful for. But did you know there are also...
Perspective Taking to Problem-Solve
By: Ally Hoffman, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Perspective Taking to Problem-Solve We have all been there, uncomfortable and frustrated because we aren’t quite seeing eye-to-eye with someone we are conversing with. While both parties might’ve been involved in the original...
Improving Emotional Support in Your Relationship
By Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S What is Emotional Support? Emotional support is so important to a relationship. Before I start talking about ways to improve emotional support, I want to define what emotional support is. Emotional support...
Finding The Support You Really Want
By: Ally Hoffman, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Finding The Support You Really Want Have you ever been confiding in someone and just felt like they didn’t quite understand what kind of support you were looking for at that moment? Those...
How to Help a Child Self-Soothe
By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S How to Help a Child Self-Soothe Children have big emotions and it can be hard for them to self-soothe. It can feel like there is nothing else but this big emotion. For them...
Seasonal Funk
By: Alexia Cabreras, MS, Life Coach Supervised by: Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Fall is a time when many go through a "funk". September starts to feel different, but at the same time… it doesn't. I think we can all agree that when the season starts...
Social Anxiety Disorder and Making Friends
By: Natasha Cooke, MS Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S What is Social Anxiety? Is meeting new people your worst fear? Do you tremor or suffer from anxiety when faced with social situations? You may be suffering from social anxiety disorder. Social anxiety disorder is determined...
Help Kids Calm Down
By Margie Frisco, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Help Kids Calm Down Learning how to calm down can be challenging. It is not something that humans are born with. That would make life so much easier. But unfortunately, it’s not that...
Connecting With Your Son
By: Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Do you know how to connect with your son? Raising my two children, including my 15-year-old son and a nine-year-old daughter, brings me both a lot of joy and, at times, a lot...
Take A Break!
By: Carey Robey, MS, LPC, NCC Take a Break: Here’s Why and How Are you taking enough breaks? If the answer is “yes,”- great! Keep reading to make sure you are using those breaks wisely. If the answer is “no,”- read on to remind yourself...
Taylor Swift To Cope With a Breakup? Duh!
By Alexia Cabreras, MS, Life Coach Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Taylor Swift To Cope With a Breakup? Duh! This blog has been a long time coming…you may or may not have your own opinions about Taylor Swift…and we may not agree, but hear...
Safe House: an Aid for Boundaries and Intimacy
By: Ally Hoffman, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Safe House: an Aid for Intimacy and Boundaries In thinking about intimacy and boundaries, it becomes more apparent throughout time that privacy is very sincerely a privilege these days! So much of our...
Setting Boundaries With Kids
By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Setting Boundaries With Kids Setting boundaries with kids can be tricky. It can be difficult to think of what you want the boundary to look like. And it can be even worse to...
Why Choose an LPC-Associate?
By: Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S When someone is seeking counseling and calls our practice, they have the option of having a student, LPC-Associate, or an LPC. Many people do not know what an LPC- Associate is. I know...
Virtual Counseling for College Students While Away from Home
By Rachel Fowler, MS, LPC, NCC Virtual counseling sessions are available for college students while away from home. Starting college and moving away from home is a difficult transition for students. College students are faced with new challenges and issues every day. These new challenges...
3 Signs Your Teen Needs Group Therapy
By Natasha Cooke, MS, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S 3 Signs Your Teen Needs Group Therapy Are you considering group therapy for your teen? Maybe you're wondering, "What if I already take my teenager to individual therapy? Shouldn't that be enough?" The...
Family Time During The Summer
By: Alexia Cabreras, MS, Life Coach Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Family time is an essential component of our summer breaks. Like many households, kids are home and ready to have a good time. But what many fail to realize is this is a...
Ways to Communicate Better with Your Spouse
By: Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Big arguments can, at times, come out of nowhere. One minute you’re discussing what to have for dinner Saturday night, and the next, a comment from your spouse can send your blood pressure...
Healthy Parenting Versus Being Their Friend
By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Parenting can be hard! Many times we have people telling us to be gentle with kids or strict. But is there a way to do both? Can parenting be kind and have limits?...
PTSD and Complex PTSD: Understanding Trauma Disorders
By: Janelle Schlueter, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP When individuals go through a traumatic event, their brain has the capacity to process it in various ways. To illustrate this idea to my clients, I often explain a hypothetical scenario. Suppose a plane carrying 100 passengers crashes,...
Post Traumatic Growth: New Appreciation for Life
By: Janelle Schlueter, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP As a trauma-specialized therapist, I see clients who have survived severe trauma. When beginning to work with these clients, they commonly cannot imagine a mindset free from their trauma. Even more unimaginable is having a positive change to...
Grief: Understanding and Processing It
By Natasha Cooke, MS Supervised by: Melissa Barton, MA, MPC-S Are you struggling with grief? Have you ever experienced the death of a person or pet? What about a difficult loss of a job, relationship or experience with a diagnosis of a severe or terminal...
Mental Health Check-In
By: Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC- Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Do you ever check in on your mental health? Being a mental health professional means I spend a lot of time thinking about mental health and trying to ensure that I am always...
Internal Versus External Coping Skills
By: Carey Robey, MS, LPC, NCC Internal Versus External Coping Skills Hopefully, we have all heard of coping skills. For those of you that haven’t- coping skills are the tools we use to deal with times of distress. We all have difficult things that come...
Somatic Therapy: What is it, How Does it Work, and Who Can it Help?
By Jessica Johns-Green, LPC Somatic therapy refers to a range of techniques that use awareness of body sensations to unlock problems. Somatic approaches focus on how the nervous system responds to various experiences, triggers, and stimuli. Most people have heard of a ‘flight or fight’...
Lying and Parenting
By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Why is My Kid Lying? Many times children can be caught lying. They can do it for many different reasons. Sometimes they can try to hide something they did, help another person, or...
The High School Transition!
By: Alexia Cabreras, Practicum Student Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S The high school transition! What does that mean? Well... precisely what it sounds like, transitioning out of high school! We all spend four years in high school, and one day to the another, we no...
Stages of Trauma Recovery: What Are They and What to Expect
By: Janelle Schlueter, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP If you have decided it is time to heal from trauma, you may wonder, "how does trauma recovery work in the therapy setting"? There is a model developed by Judith Herman, an expert in PTSD treatment, that many...
How to Cope With Grief
By: Natasha Cooke, Practicum Student Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S What is grief? Grief is a strong and natural emotion we feel after a loss. Grief occurs after the death of a loved person or pet. However, grief can also happen after other significant losses....
Practicum Student For Therapy
By: Alexia Cabreras, Practicum Student Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Practicum Student For Therapy Picking a practicum student, also known as a future therapist in training, can come with many benefits associated with your therapeutic experience. Before going into that, let me briefly explain what...
What is Deep Breathing?
What is all the fuss about deep breathing? Like, what really happens when you take a deep breath? People say that taking a deep breath can help someone calm down when they are big upset. And the facts are, yes, it can! The Science Behind...
Forgiving Yourself
By: Carey Robey, MS, LPC, NCC How to Forgive Yourself We are all familiar with forgiveness- the act of letting go of anger and resentment when we feel we have been wronged. Though one might be able to forgive others, you may find it hard...
Coping with Anxiety using Grounding and Breathing Techniques
By: Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC- Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Anxiety ebbs and flows at different times throughout the day or week. At times one can experience high anxiety while, at other times, feel relaxed and at peace. When feelings or situations begin...
Hearing and Active Listening
By: Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton Hearing vs. Active Listening There are very important differences between hearing someone and actively listening. Listening to someone is more work than hearing. Furthermore, it is essential to have people who listen to us...
Eating Disorders and Athletes: Is it Dedication or Dangerous?
By: Jessica Johns-Green, LPC For all the good things that sport offers to athletes, there is also an increased risk for eating disorders. A complicated relationship between ourselves and food is characteristic of most Americans. Problematic eating habits may even be more of a norm...
What is a Coping Skill?
By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S The phrase coping skills has been used over the years. Even now, the term is used a lot. But what is a coping skill? Defining Coping Skills Let’s start with defining coping skills. It truly...
Infidelity Betrayal, The Final
By: Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC- Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Infidelity Betrayal Phase 3: Attach The third and final part of infidelity betrayal concerns attachment and sex. It is essential to talk about sex after a physical affair has occurred. This topic can...
Facts, It’s More Than a New Phrase
By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Facts. It’s the new word all the kids are saying. As an adult, I understand the term the way the kids say it to say I agree. But facts can be so helpful for all...
Infidelity Betrayal Continued
By: Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC- Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Infidelity Betrayal Phase 2: Attunement Welcome to the continued part of my blog on infidelity betrayal. In this phase of recovery, the couple has already gone through a lot of atonement and is...
What is Mindset?
By: M. Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S What is mindset? Mindset is a set of beliefs that help you make sense of your world. Beliefs are pivotal in setting goals and whether you reach your goals. Types of mindsets...
Make the New Year Better
By: Ally Hoffman, MA, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S At the start of each new year, we begin considering making thoughtful resolutions. Sometimes we even do an overhaul of something we did not feel worked out well this past year. We start evaluating our...
Infidelity Betrayal in Couples
By: Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC- Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Infidelity Betrayal in Couples is hard! One of the biggest questions I get asked after an affair has been discovered is: how can I ever trust my partner again? Trust is such an...
The Fear of Confrontation: Continued
By Natasha Cooke, Practicum Student Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Do you want to learn how to overcome your fear of confrontation? Learning the right skills to confront someone can help you avoid arguments and communicate more effectively. Here are four simple steps to effective...
The Fear of Confrontation: Tips to Overcome It
By: Natasha Cooke, Practicum Student Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Do you struggle with confrontation? Many of us do. Many of us even fear confrontation. We dread conversations that make us feel uneasy. We avoid conflict at all costs. Sometimes, we even go out of...
Nacho Parenting
By: M. Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Nacho Parenting! Blending a family can be very difficult. You might find yourself at odds with your new partner. You have your parenting style, and your new spouse has their parenting style....
Holiday Depression: How can you fight it?
By: M. Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S What can be the culprit for Holiday Depression? Holiday depression can occur during November and December due to increased stress and anxiety. Even content people may experience loneliness and lack fulfillment during...
What is a Boundary?
By: M. Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Boundary-building Techniques Establishing a healthy boundary can be difficult. Telling people where to stop and how to engage with you can be intimidating. But you can establish guidelines that will help you...
New Year's Resolutions
By: Alexia Cabreras, Practicum Student Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S A new year and new resolutions! Hip! Hip! Hooray! 2023 is officially around the corner! This is an exciting time to start thinking about the changes you want for yourself. When we think of...
Unpacking Gentle Parenting
By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Everywhere you go now, it seems everyone is talking about gentle parenting. But really, what is it? And is it right for you? Defining Gentle Parenting In psychology, we do not necessarily call healthy parenting...
Internal Boundaries: What Are They and How Can They Help?
By: Carey Robey, MS, LPC, NCC Ever Heard of Internal Boundaries? Many of us have heard of the word boundaries. But many do not know about internal boundaries. Internal boundaries take it a step further. First, let's define it. Defining Internal Boundaries Internal boundaries are...
What is Self-Care?
By: M. Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S What is Self-Care? The World Health Organization has defined self-care as anything that helps individuals to help them prevent disease and health with or without the support of a healthcare provider. It...
Anxiety During Holidays
By: Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC- Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S For many people Christmas time brings joy, cheer, time spent with friends and family, good food, and fun times. But for many others the holiday season can bring sadness, depression, feelings of loneliness,...
Seasonal Self-Care
By: Ally Hoffman, MA, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S The holiday season is near, which means fall and all of the great things that tend to come with it: cooler weather, seasonal treats, seasonal self-care, and family time! Then again, there is also the...
What Parenting Style Do You Have?
By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Your parenting style can directly influence what you do when you are parenting. Let's get real. Parenting is hard! Kids do not come with manuals. Sometimes it can feel like we are flying by the...
Understanding Boundaries
By: Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S What are Boundaries? Understanding and Creating boundaries is one of the best ways to keep your emotional energy. In Relationships they allow people to learn when to say yes and when to say...
Effects of Trauma: 5 Misconceptions
By: Jessica Johns-Green, LPC 5 Misconceptions about the Effects of Trauma Let's talk about the effects of trauma! What are they? When the unthinkable happens, our body is built to survive. The nervous system goes into high gear, employing its ingenious methods of getting us...
Boundaries: What Are They And How Can They Help Relationships?
By: Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S What are Boundaries? Relationships with boundaries allow people to learn when to say yes and when to say no to others and yourself. Creating boundaries is one of the best ways to keep...
How Gratitude can Help
By: Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC- Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Writing about gratitude during the month that celebrates Thanksgiving may seem cliché but having and expressing thankfulness is important in everyday life. Showing gratitude has many benefits physically, psychologically, and socially. Physical benefits...
Grounding techniques for Children and Teens with Anxiety
By: Rachel Fowler, MS, LPC, NCC Grounding techniques for children and teens are helpful tools to help manage anxiety. Overwhelming anxiety can make your body and your thoughts feel foreign. Grounding techniques will assist the brain in coming back to reality and help you feel...
Power Struggle with Kids
By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Power struggles with kids can feel like torture as a parent. You want the child to do what you need them to do. But the power of wills can be an epic battle. Finding healthy...
Sleep Routine For Kids
By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Sleep is one of the most essential parts of life. Life can be difficult if people are not getting a healthy amount or quality of sleep. Healthy sleep is extremely needed for kids too! One...
What is Self-Compassion
By: Ally Hoffman, MA, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Self-Compassion can be hard. Often when I ask clients how they show self-compassion. I get questions and confusion in return. What is self-compassion? What actions would I need to take? Where do I start? For...
Treating OCD with ERP
Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Treating OCD with ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) during this time of the year is crucial! We find ourselves in a season filled with pumpkins, pumpkin spice, and all things fall-related. Included in this time...
Mental Health Finally Normalized
By: Alexia Cabreras , Practicum Student Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Mental health has quickly become a topic of conversation within our generation. You watch some of your favorite shows and movies and see therapy scenes there. You hear some of your favorite music, and...
Group Therapy for Middle Schoolers
By Margie Frisco, MA, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Group therapy for middle schoolers can be a great help! Group therapy is a place where they can talk with kids like them. They can relate to each other and hear kids their age...
What is Virtual Counseling?
Ally Hoffman, MA, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Have you ever experienced virtual counseling? Are you having trouble meeting your therapist in person due to time, financial, or other constraints? No problem – we are here to help! Teletherapy or virtual counseling is a...
Triggers, what are they?
By: Janelle Schlueter, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP We’ve all heard the word trigger. It seems to be everywhere. Interestingly, not many people know what triggers are and how to correctly use the term. Understanding triggers: what are they? What is a trigger? Healthline defines trigger...
Three Simple Ways To Practice Mindfulness with Children
By: Rachel Fowler, MS, LPC Three simple ways to Practice Mindfulness with Children Practicing mindfulness with children by taking simple Mindful Breaks can increase their ability to manage emotions. In our fast-paced world, it takes intentional effort to slow down and check in with ourselves....
Narcissistic Personality Disorder In Relationships
By: Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Narcissistic Personality Disorder, what is it? Narcissistic Personality Disorder in relationships isn't a battle you need to face on your own. So what is NPD? NPD is a personality disorder that is characterized...
Feeling the Pressure
By: Tara Kong, MA, LPC-Associate Ever feel the pressure to have it all together? Many people feel immense pressure when trying to juggle their personal, professional and social lives. Life pulls us in so many different directions all at once that it can be hard...
How to Emotionally Prepare your Child for School
By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC-Associate Most parents right now are trying to prepare their children for school, but are we emotionally preparing our children? As parents, it can be easy to get wrapped up in what a child needs physically for school, like pens, paper,...
Habits That Make Anxiety Worse in Children
By: Rachel Fowler, MS, LPC Everyone, including children, have habits that make anxiety worse—for example, staying up late one night to finish a movie or skipping a meal because we lost track of time in the day. Those examples might have little to no effect...
Overcoming a "Gray Divorce"
By: M. Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S What is a "Gray Divorce?" While the term is not widely known, a "gray divorce" is far more common than people realize. In 2012, researchers at Bowling Green State University coined the...
Trust Issues After Trauma
By: Janelle Schlueter, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP Do you struggle with trust issues because of your past trauma? Many people who have a history of trauma struggle with trust. This blog can help you understand how trauma can cause trust issues with yourself and others....
5 Common Misconceptions about Eating Disorders
By: Jessica Johns-Green, LPC Eating disorders are widespread. They are estimated to affect 30 Million Americans within their lifetime and roughly 900,000 Texas residents, according to Sage Recovery & Wellness. As Common as Eating Disorders Are, They Can Seem Difficult to Understand Even those suffering...
Confidence Building for Kids
By: Margie Frisco, MA, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton MA, LPC-S Having self-confidence as a kid can be tricky! Remember back when you were a kid. Did you experience a situation where another classmate was mean to you? Or remember the old saying of sticks...
The Power Of Positive Thinking
Tara Kong, MS, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S How can positive thinking impact your life? I once heard the phrase, “Change your thinking, change your life.” But is it that simple? Many people don’t realize the power of their thoughts. These thoughts can...
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Anxiety
By: Julie Sekachev, M.Ed, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Have you heard of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for treating Anxiety? Have you tried just about anything to help you stop the anxious thoughts? Does challenging your anxious thoughts to seem like...
How to Get Organized For Back To School
By: Julie Sekachev, M, Ed., LPC Associate Do you struggle with getting organized for back to school? Does going back to school or college seem overwhelming? Do you struggle to stay organized and have a hard time finishing tasks? Clutter can leave you drained. Being...
Depression Self Care: Two Things To Look For Each Day
By: Jessica Johns-Green, LPC Do you struggle with depression and self-care? Depression affects millions of people. If you are struggling with depression, you are not alone. It is estimated that over 17 million people in the US have had at least one major depressive episode....
Teen Depression-Is it a Phase? What You Can Do to Help
By: Julie Sekachev, M.Ed, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Teen years can be challenging. It is normal for a teen to feel sad and irritable at times. However, if the feelings become overwhelming and your teen feels hopeless or helpless, it could...
Why Put Kids in Therapy?
By: Margie Frisco MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton MA, LPC-S A child might need therapy. Why will therapy help the child? What are the benefits of treatment versus letting the child figure it out? Here we will discuss the why. Kids can benefit...
What Being an LGBTQIA+ Ally is All About
By: Ally Hoffman MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton MA, LPC-S In June, we recognize Pride. We hear a lot about being an ally of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, plus (LGBTQIA+) community. There is much confusion about what it means...
Children and Resiliency
By: M. Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S What is resilience in children? Resilience in children is the ability to bounce back from stressors in life such as everyday stress, adversity, failure, life challenges, or even trauma. Unfortunately, kids are...
How to Set Boundaries with Your Partner
By: Julie Sekachev, M.Ed, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S What are boundaries, and why do we need them? Boundaries are expectation or rules that we set for ourselves that tells the other person our limit of space or activity. Boundaries show others...
How to Motivate Kids in a Healthy Way
By: Margie Frisco MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton MA, LPC-S Is it hard to motivate your kid(s)? Sometimes, it can be hard to get your child to do what you ask them to do. For example, how often do we have to say...
Adoption Counseling
By: M. Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Have you adopted, or are you in the process of adopting? Adoption Counseling can help your family through this process. A knowledgeable therapist can aid any couple through the steps needed to...
How to Create and Change Habits
By: Ally Hoffman, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Whenever I hear the word habit anymore, all I have running through my head is the new Ed Sheeran song that exclaims, “My bad habits lead to…,” prompting me to consider my habits....
How to Help Your Child Cope with Separation Anxiety
By: Julie Sekachev, M.Ed, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Do you have a child that struggles with separation anxiety? Do you have a partner that is out of town frequently? Are you planning to be away from your child for some time?...
Normalizing Arousal and Romantic Dreams After Sexual Assault
By: Janelle Schlueter, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP How important is ‘normalizing’ for survivors of sexual assault? Arguably it is the most essential part. Normalizing occurs when a therapist takes a thought that the client believes to be ‘abnormal’ or ‘shameful’ and helps the client see...
Positive and Negative Self-Talk
By: Alexia Cabreras, Practicum Student Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Do you have trouble with positive or negative self-talk? How we talk to ourselves, positively or negatively, plays a significant role in our lives. When we think of positive and negative self-talk, we think...
Helping Middle School Kids Adjust
By: Margie Frisco, MA Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Middle School can be challenging for the parents and the kids. Kids are trying to adjust to a new school with new people. Parents are trying to change to what can feel like a new...
How to Counteract Negative Thinking Errors in Children
By: Rachel Fowler, MS, LPC Children find it hard to understand their thoughts, behaviors, and feelings, and many children struggle with negative thinking patterns and thinking errors. Especially when their views are harmful, those negative thinking patterns are called cognitive distortions or thinking errors. We...
Overcoming Late-Life Divorce
By: M. Katherine Lickteig, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Are you the adult child of a late-life divorce? Have you been adversely affected by the fact that your parents recently divorced? You are not alone. Adult children are often involved negatively...
Spring Cleaning with Meaning
By: Ally Hoffman, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Spring Cleaning in the mental health world takes on a whole new meaning. Typically, spring is when we all start checking in to see if we have followed through with our new year’s...
5 Easy Mindful Meditation Techniques for Anxiety
By: Julie Sekachev, M.Ed, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Have you ever wondered if you would benefit from meditation or being more mindful, but don't know where to start? Do you ever have racing thoughts that won’t go away? Maybe you finally...
Changing Negative Thinking Patterns
By: Carey Robey, MS, LPC, NCC Would you like to know how to challenge and change your negative thinking patterns? Learning how to challenge your negative thoughts is a skill that can help you decrease anxiety and have lasting effects on your overall mental health....
The Importance of Nonverbal Communication
By: Carey Robey, MS, LPC, NCC Oftentimes, our nonverbal communication is just as important as our verbal communication. Healthy communication is an essential part of a strong, supportive, and healthy relationship. Usually, when thinking about communication, we consider the actual words we use, whether spoken...
Easy and Effective Time Management Skills
By: Carey Robey, MS, LPC, NCC Do you struggle with time management? Too busy to get everything done? Therapy can be a great asset in helping with challenges like this and more profound struggles such as depression and anxiety. After all, not managing time well...
Anxiety and Stress Relief with Spring Cleaning!
By: Ally Hoffman MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton MA, LPC-S Looking to find anxiety and stress relief during these times? Have you been procrastinating on doing your spring cleaning? If you have not already partaken in this annual purge, now may be a...
Middle School Therapy Group
By: Margie Frisco, MA Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S If you have a child in Middle School, a therapy group can be an impactful way for your child to learn various skills. For instance, do you remember what it was like to be a...
Shame and Chronic illness
By: Janelle Schlueter, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP Having a chronic disease severely impacts the quality of life. People with chronic illness struggle with daily shame. Do you or someone you know to struggle with a chronic illness? Do you struggle with shame around that illness?...
What To Do After a Binge: 4 Tips To Break the Cycle
By: Jessica Johns-Green, LPC Eating disorders are on the rise, with binge eating disorders leading the way as the standard form of an eating disorder. Post-pandemic life finds many of us living in sweatpants and leggings while working from home. Social isolation gives rise to...
Early Signs of Autism
By: Margie Frisco, MA Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Autism can be hard to see in children, even though there can be many early signs. The mental health community does not always agree on what causes autism. But many can agree on some early...
How To Support Your Loved Ones
By: Ally Hoffman, MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Would you say you know how to support your loved ones? As a therapist, I have so many clients who face hardships in learning to interact with loved ones. These individuals struggle with...
How to Regulate Your Emotions
By: Julie Sekachev, M.Ed, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Do you feel as though you have difficulty with your emotions? Here at the Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch, we can help teach you ways you can regulate your emotions and improve your...
How to Be More Assertive
By: Julie Sekachev, M.Ed, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Would you like to know how to be more assertive? Do you struggle to say what you mean to others? Do you struggle to make decisions and find yourself saying "yes" when you...
Infidelity Betrayal Continued...
By: Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC- Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S Phase 2: Attunement Welcome to the second part of my blog on infidelity betrayal. In this phase of recovery, the couple has already gone through a lot of atonement and is in a...
How to Build Trust with Your Partner
By: Julie Sekachev, M.Ed, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Do you feel like you need to build trust with your partner? Do you feel disconnected from him or her? Does it feel like they are just not there for you when you...
Sleep Disorders and Mental Health
By: Alexia Cabreras , Practicum Student Sleep plays a crucial role in our daily lives and mental health. Not only does rest allow us to function, it's significant in our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Sleep disorders are much more common than we think. It...
Failure to Launch
By: Ally Hoffman, MA I'm sure we have all heard the statement: failure to launch at some point. Made popular by the movie with Matthew McConaughey, the concept "Failure to Launch" describes the circumstance in which individuals aged 18 to 25 face difficulty launching into...
Gottman Method: Predictors (and Antidotes) of Divorce
By: Julie Sekachev, M. Ed., LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Have you ever heard of the Gottman Method? What if I told you that there is a way to tell if your marriage will last or not after observing you and your...
Emotionally Focused Therapy: Foster a Secure Bond with Your Partner
By: Julie Sekachev, M. Ed., LPC Associate Do you ever find yourself feeling stuck in the way you relate to your partner? It seems to be good for a while. But, soon enough you find yourselves in a cycle of feeling attacked, shut out, unwanted,...
Parenting Like a Rockstar: Parenting Tips to Help You Raise Your Children and Enjoy the Moment with Them
By: Margie Frisco, Life Coach Being a parent can be one of the hardest jobs in life. It can feel overwhelming to raise kids, with the pressure of allowing your children to have their feelings but still be in “control” of your own household. For...
Codependency and Recovery
By: Julie Sekachev, M. Ed, LPC Associate Have you ever asked yourself what is codependency and does it apply to me? Ask yourself these few questions: Do you ever take responsibility for the actions of others? Does saying “no” to others feel so terrifying that...
How To Increase Self-Awareness
By: Carey Robey, Often I ask my clients during session how much time they spend self-reflecting. The answer? A confused “Never?” We dive into a discussion on self-awareness and how important it is to be in touch with one’s own emotional state, perspective, thoughts, and...
Toxic Families and Eating Disorders
By: Jessica Johns-Green, MA, LPC What does the family you grew up in have to do with eating disorders later in life? Clients often recognize the difficulties in their families, but the eating disorder starts later on. Binge eating, bulimia and anorexia can be seen...
Ways to Get Organized For Back To School
By: Julie Sekachev, M, Ed., LPC Associate Do you struggle with getting organized for back to school? Does going back to school or college seem overwhelming? Do you struggle to stay organized and have a hard time finishing tasks? Keeping things organized is very important...
Frequently Asked Questions About Trauma Counseling
By: Janelle Schlueter, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP Getting trauma counseling can be scary and overwhelming. Have you wondered what makes counseling for trauma different from ‘regular’ counseling? Well, simply put, a lot. As a therapist who is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I have...
Helping Children Cope with Divorce
By: Julie Sekachev, M. Ed, LPC Associate Divorce can be a difficult and life changing event in your child’s life. By helping your child navigate this uncertain time and utilizing some tips below you can help them process what is happening in a healthy way....
Ways to Stop Feeling Stuck in Life
By: Margie Frisco, Life Coach Are you feeling stuck in life? Many times throughout our lifetime we can feel stuck. This can be in our job, love life, family, or just general life. It can feel like life is passing you by. There are several...
5 Ways Couples Counseling Can Help You Resolve Conflict
By: Julie Sekachev, M.Ed, LPC Associate Do you find yourself arguing over money, communication, who will do the chores, jealousy, or how to spend each other’s free time? If so, you are not alone. All happy couples argue about something. However, the key is to...
Tips For Healthy Conflict Resolution
By: Carey Robey, MS, LPC While conflicts are a normal part of any relationship, they can often lead to arguments and fights that increase our stress and anxiety and can cause rifts in our relationships. Learning conflict resolution skills can assist you in maintaining healthy...
Give Yourself A Self-Care Check
By: Carey Robey, MS, LPC Well, it’s finally summer and for many of you that means things are slowing down. Now that life has let up some, it is a good time to check on your self-care. Lately, I have had many clients responding that...
Socially Connected: How Social Media Affects Your Mental Health
By: Jessica Johns-Green, LPC How social media affects your mental health is a question we should all be asking ourselves. Checking my social media has become as important as checking my emails. It’s a daily thing, and it is useful. But is there a point...
The Price of Perfectionism and 4 Ways to Set Yourself Free
By: Julie, Sekachev, M. Ed, LPC Associate Do you struggle with perfectionism? Do you find yourself chasing impossible standards? Striving for that “perfect” body, that Pinterest dream house, exceptional grades, a promotion at work, etc. You almost feel like success is just around the corner,...
6 Ways to Boost Your Confidence for Women in 2021
By: Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Being a woman in 2021 can be amazing, but it also has its challenges. We get pulled in a million directions, and that can feel overwhelming. As women, we may be business owners, employees, moms, wives, friends, and list goes...
The Importance of Self-Compassion
By: Carey Robey, MS, LPC What is self-compassion? While we regularly feel compassion for other people, we often lack it for ourselves. In giving other people compassion, we recognize their suffering and empathize with them, feel for them, and have a desire to reduce their...
Are You Struggling with Low Self-Esteem? The “Shoulds” May be to Blame!
By: Janelle Schlueter, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP It’s a word we hear all the time. From family, friends, strangers and even ourselves. “Should” is such a common word so why would I say it’s the new curse word? Some of the many things I am...
My Teen Has Been CyberBullied....Now What?
By: Cheri Locke, MA, LPC, CCTP We have all heard of bullying, but now we are in the age of social media, technology, and that brings about new ways to bully...cyberbullying. So what exactly is cyberbullying? It is a deliberate attempt to use technology to...
Learn How To Handle Stress and Make Yourself a Priority
By: Margie Frisco, Practicum Student, UHV Do you need help on how to handle stress? Many times in life we get caught up in the hustle and grind of everyday life. This can be due to having children to take care of, coordinating their schedules,...
Talk Therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorder
By: Quique Autrey, MS, LPC Associate For the last 5 years, I’ve worked with teenagers and young adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ASD is a developmental disorder that affects a person’s communication and social behavior. ASD is a spectrum diagnosis which means there...
Setting Healthy Boundaries
By: Carey Robey, MS, LPC Healthy boundaries are an essential part of keeping good mental health. So how do we ensure we are establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries? Well, setting boundaries is not just about setting limits with those in our lives, but also prioritizing...
Men's Therapy: It's Time To Step Out Of The Box
By: Quique Autrey, MS, LPC Associate Guys, it’s time to step out of the box! Which box, you ask? The box that society has placed us in for decades. Man box culture . A box that defines what it means to be a real man....
It’s Not Your Diet: 5 Mental Wellness Tips For Getting To A Healthy Bodyweight - And Staying There!
By: Jessica Johns-Green, LPC Diets force change by setting strict rules but mostly create only temporary change. The underlying issues - emotionally and mentally - stay the same. Or even get worse. Cutting calories makes us focus on food more. And failure? That’s just the...
Mental Health Toolkit For Your Son
By: Quique Autrey, MS, LPC Associate Teenage boys are wild, quirky and full of life. Many of them are running at full speed. They may be smart and passionate, but many struggle to make the best decisions in life. They seem to be more driven...
Parenting Teens: Pick Your Battles
By: Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Being a parent can be one of the most exciting and rewarding jobs out there. Yet, it comes with its challenges. Parenting a teenager may bring even more struggles to the table. I am a mom of two middle school...
3 Reasons Group Therapy for Teens Can Help
Authored by: Jason Drake, a Licensed Clinical Worker-Supervisor (LCSW-S). Group therapy is a powerful counseling approach for both adults and teens. We have found and studies support our findings that group therapy for teens can be more impactful for teens. When teens take part in...
New Year’s Resolutions: Making Your Goals SMART and Emotionally Healthy
By: Janelle Schlueter, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP Happy New Year! It's that time of year when most people are setting some goals. Are you setting a New Year’s Resolution for yourself? Or are you like many others in that you already set a resolution and...
Let's Talk About Sex
By: Cheri Locke, MA, LPC, CCTP Sex. We are officially in 2021 and sex can still be a taboo topic. So let's take a minute and talk about sex baby, let's talk about...(Salt-N-Pepa anyone?) For many couples sex can be a source of great pleasure...
Self-Harm in Teens
By: Denise Servin, M. Ed., LPC Associate Does your teen engage in self-harm? Teenagers are facing many difficult setbacks right now. Living though a pandemic has changed how they are educated. It has also affected the way they socialize. They do not get to see...
Managing Holiday Stress This Season
By: Carey Robey, MS, LPC Have holiday stress this season? It may be the most wonderful time of the year, but no matter what you’re celebrating, holidays can be hectic! This year especially, it is important to be mindful of our stress levels so that...
Mindfulness: What Is It? And Why You Might Need It
By: Jessica Johns-Green, LPC Mindfulness has been gaining attention in the field of mental health for a couple decades now. If you’re investigating ways to treat anxiety, depression and other mental health struggles, mindfulness may be something you’ve come across. Building mindfulness skills is also...
Why is My Teenage Son So Emotional? Four Tools to Help Him Cope
By: Quique Autrey, MS, LPC Associate Does your teenage son often seem overly emotional? Male teens have a difficult time managing their emotions. Parents often report their son's react in an extreme manner when they fail an important quiz or are ghosted on social media....
What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Is It Right For Me?
By: Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, known as CBT, is becoming more widely used by counselors. Moreover, psychiatrists recommend it for a variety of mental health issues. These issues range from anxiety, depression, eating disorders, phobias, and substance use. CBT can also be helpful...
How To Help Your Loved One With PTSD
By: Janelle Schlueter, MS, LPC, CCTP Do you love someone that is experiencing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, also known as PTSD? Relationships can often be hard to navigate. When you love someone that struggles with PTSD, "relationship issues" can often take on a whole new...
Parenting A Child With ADHD
By: Cheri Locke, MA, LPC At times parenting a child or teen with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, ADHD or ADD, can be overwhelming. As parents you may struggle to understand your child. As a couple, there may be consistent differences in how to handle situations...
Avoid Burnout While Working From Home
By: Denise Servin, M. Ed., LPC Associate Working from home has quickly gone from being a rare luxury that most of us didn’t have the opportunity to try, to becoming an almost expected way of life. There will always be some kind of work that...
Five Coping Skills to Help Manage Depression and Anxiety
By: Carey Robey, MS, LPC Whether you have had a bad day at work, an argument with your partner, or are overwhelmed by the global health pandemic, healthy coping skills can help you manage stressful situations and diminish symptoms of depression and anxiety. There many...
Burn-Out: Dealing with Physical, Mental and Emotional Exhaustion
By: Jessica Johns-Green, LPC Burn-out is a state of mental, emotional and physical exhaustion typically brought on by a period of prolonged stress. It’s more than just stress about work. What Is Burn-Out - How To Recognize It Work related burn-out, although not a medical...
5 Ways to Improve Your Relationship and Connect with Your Partner During the Pandemic
By: Quique Autrey, MS, LPC Intern Need some ideas to improve your relationship? Has it been difficult to stay connected to your partner during the pandemic? Couples are experiencing higher levels of stress and conflict than usual. Most agree that it’s been a challenge to...
Stress-Reducing Activities for Families During the Pandemic
By: Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S We are living in an anxiety-provoking time. There are a lot of unknowns. How long will I be working from home? When will the kids get to return to school safely? How am I going to help my kids with...
Surprisingly Helpful Tips for PTSD
By: Janelle Schlueter, MS, LPC Intern, CCTP If you have been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) you are probably already aware that PTSD results in severe and even debilitating anxiety. What many people don’t know is that with PTSD there is an underlying...
Simple Ways To Deepen The Bond In Your Marriage
By: Cheri Locke, MA, LPC Marriage is a beautiful thing and there is nothing more amazing than the love and bond you share with your partner. What happens though when life happens and you start to feel less connected with your spouse? Connection in Marriage...
5 Ways to Protect Your Mental Health in a Toxic Work Environment
By: Denise Servin, M. Ed., LPC Intern Sometimes we take for granted our work environment, but now more than ever we should start looking at how the office affects our mental health. How do you feel when you walk in to work? Does being surrounded...
Anxiety and Stress Relief with Spring Cleaning
By: Carey Robey, MS, LPC Intern Spring Cleaning Can Help with Anxiety and Stress Relief Looking to find anxiety and stress relief during these times? Have you been procrastinating on doing your spring cleaning? If you have not already partaken in this annual purge, now...
Depression Self Care: Two Things To Look For Each Day
By: Jessica Johns-Green, LPC Depression affects millions of people. If you are struggling with depression, you are not alone. It is estimated that over 17 million people in the US have had at least one major depressive episode https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression.shtml . Depression is treatable with self...
Adolescent Anxiety: 5 Things Parents Can Do To Help
By: Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S Everyone experiences anxiety from time to time, but there are times where it can feel hard to manage. The symptoms of anxiety may get overwhelming. Feelings, thoughts, or physical symptoms are the main ways that anxiety can rear its head....
Covid-19 and Mental Health
By: Jessica Johns- Green, LPC There is no doubt that Covid-19 is affecting everyone. Whether you are working from home, adjusting to the kids being home from school, or just fed up with the disruption, Covid-19 https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019 is affecting close to everyone in Texas right...
5 Tips To Help You Heal From Past Trauma
By: Janelle Schlueter, MS, LPC Intern What is trauma? Have you ever experienced a significant loss, chronic illness, divorce, abuse (sexual, physical, emotional, and/or verbal), serious car accident, natural disaster, military service, or any other event that you found to be significantly distressing? These are...
5 Signs You Need to Practice More Self-Care
By: Cheri Locke, MA, LPC Self-care can be complicated. Anyone can tell you to do it, but only you can give the gift of self-care to yourself. I often hear clients say that they are not exactly sure what self-care means to them. Self-care is...
4 Ways To Increase Your Self-Esteem
By: Denise Servin, M. Ed., LPC Intern Self-esteem is a tricky thing. It can help you get through some tough times. But, typically tough times can cause your level of self-esteem to drop. Overall, women tend to have lower self-esteem than men. It can be...
Three Potential Dangers of Social Media Use
By: Carey Robey, MS, LPC Intern Are you concerned about the amount of time your child spends on social media? Do you think about its impacts? In today’s day and age, social media use is abundant. With improvements in technology and increased access, kids are...
Eating Disorders and Emotions
By: Jessica Johns-Green, LPC Unhealthy relationships with food and eating disorders are prevalent in our society. Mental health issues are also prevalent in our society with over 40 million adults diagnosed with anxiety every year. So have you ever wondered if you use food for...