Making Sense of Big Behaviors
One of the most challenging phases of parenting can be when there are big, explosive behaviors happening with our little -and not so little- children. This can be an exhausting and humiliating experience (especially when it happens in public places!) and it can create a sense of helplessness for everyone affected.
Navigating Tough Times After Coming Out
For many LGBTQ+ individuals, coming out can be a nerve wracking experience. It takes a lot of courage to put yourself in a vulnerable position by sharing your identity with those in your life.
Give Yourself the Gift of Self-Compassion
Research shows that practicing self-compassion can increase healthy motivation for change, help us manage our emotions, increase our overall sense of well-being, and even improve mental function.
Meditation and Mindfulness: Benefits and Methods
Meditation, or mindfulness, has vast benefits for mental health. Read this post to find the benefits of meditation and mindfulness plus tips on how to meditate.
4 Reasons Why Successful Men May Make Horrible Husbands
You can’t change yesterday, but you can certainly change today. And more importantly, tomorrow and your future by being home and totally “present” tonight!
Tips for Parents of LGBTQIA Youth
If you are a parent of an LGBTQIA youth moving towards accepting your child's identity read this to learn the importance of familial support to LGBTQIA youth as well as practical actions to support your child through this moment.
Breaking Barriers: Exploring the Role of MDMA and Ketamine in Relationship and Sexual Wellness
As a psychotherapist specializing in sex therapy, couples counseling, and the therapeutic use of psychedelic medicines, I'm fascinated by the increasing evidence showing how certain substances can significantly assist in overcoming many psychological barriers that cause distress in our relationships and sexual lives. I want to share a brief overview of one such substance - MDMA, and its potential to facilitate a breakthrough in therapeutic settings.
Exploring Comprehensive Solutions for Male Sexual Problems Beyond Medication
While medications like Viagra® have been crucial in addressing male sexual issues, it is essential to recognize that non-biological factors also contribute to male sexual concerns. Some of the reasons include a partner's disinterest in sex, their discomfort with medication-assisted erections, the patient's misunderstanding of proper use, and the medication not working as expected.
Therapy Resources for Autistic Children and Teens
Though autistic people have existed throughout history, research and discussions about how to support autistic children are relatively new. Adults who are trying to navigate how to parent and support their autistic children may be unsure of where to start. As a child therapist who specializes in working with autistic and other neurodivergent children, I’ve compiled this reference of my most recommended resources for parents of autistic children. Every child is different and has unique needs, but hopefully, this list will provide a place to start and experts to reach out to learn more.
Give the Gift of Love
While there are many parenting books, there is not one way to parent a child. Children are unique, and therefore, need to be parented in different ways. What works for you may not work for your sister or your neighbor.
The What and Why of Couples Therapy
Couples therapy is a form of therapy that helps couples improve their relationship and work through challenges they may face. It's important to note that the goal of couples therapy is not to keep a couple married or encourage them to get divorced. Instead, it's about providing a safe space for couples to heal wounds, gain insight, and work on their relationship.
Why is Faith Transition so Hard?
Faith transition is a complex process. Sometimes clients attempt to minimize their experience or feel they are not managing the transition well. The reality is this process is very difficult and can be overwhelming and disorienting.
Worry Monster Part 2: Trust your Child will Survive Being Scared
After reading Worry Monster Part 1 you better understand that your child has an extra sensitive alarm system that is triggering fight or flight unnecessarily. Now that you understand the underlying mechanisms, it is time to jump into what we can do that will actually help address this underlying system that is wreaking havoc.
What Do I Do If I Just Don't Like Sex?
“I think I’m broken.”
“I hate the thought of being touched anymore. I could live the rest of my life without having sex again. Does this mean I am asexual?”
“Sex is the last thing I want to do. All my partner and I do is fight about it.”
These are just a few of the statements I have heard over the years, working with women as a Certified Sex Therapist and relationship counselor.
Books for Bonding with your Child
Parents looking to help their children become emotionally self-sufficient should start integrating weekly hangout time with their children. If starting this new routine feels uncomfortable, beginning the first few hangouts with expressive art books together is easy.
Finding Connection with Your Teens
When our cute little kids turn into teenagers a lot of changes take place developmentally. There is a strange new odor in the air, moods may swing (sometimes amazingly quick!) and one of the harder relational aspects of change is it is common for teens to stop seeking or accepting physical affection and they often stop talking to their parents. While they communicate plenty with their friends, unfortunately, they may not do the same to their parents. This can be a painful and sometimes abrupt change for a parent to make sense of and it is normal to experience hurt feelings. Who knew our kids could hurt our feelings so much?!
It’s my first time to therapy, what should I expect?
Andréa Martin, CSW writes blog about first time therapy session