As discussed in our prior blog, validation is a significant component to interpersonal functioning. Learning how to validate others is one thing we can do to improve our relationships across the board. Here, we’ll take a look at how to master this skill. Before we begin, it’s important to know what validation is. . .Continue reading Validate with Ease: A Step-by-Step Guide
Validation Fails
Validation is one of our most important interpersonal skills. The ability to validate effectively can significantly improve our relationships. And being able to validate someone in a given moment can make or break an interaction. So what does it take to validate? In this two-part blog series, we’ll look at some common validation failures asContinue reading Validation Fails
VAWA Immigration Evalutations
Alejandra came to the United States from Venezuela and, after a few months, started dating a U.S. citizen. They had a romantic courtship and married a little after a year. Alejandra couldn’t wait to start a family with her loving new spouse. But soon after they married, his behavior changed. He started criticizing and humiliatingContinue reading VAWA Immigration Evalutations
Coping With Social Anxiety
What Is Social Anxiety? Do you get anxious when you have to give a talk? How about before work meetings or parties or other types of events? Do you notice apprehension, worry, or even dread? How about the physical manifestations of anxiety, such as a sweating, an increased heart rate, or stomach trouble? If theseContinue reading Coping With Social Anxiety
Dear Peloton, Where Are Your Fat Instructors?
Dear Peloton, I write to you as a member, a psychologist specializing in eating disorders and body image concerns, and long-time fitness professional. In fact, I’ve been certified as a personal trainer for 25 years, am certified as a lifetime spinning instructor, and have taught hundreds, if not thousands, of group exercise classes. And whileContinue reading Dear Peloton, Where Are Your Fat Instructors?
CPT for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
What is CPT? Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is short-term, evidence-based therapy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). CPT was developed in the 1980s, derived from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CPT is primarily a cognitive therapy, helping trauma survivors examine and challenge their beliefs surrounding a traumatic event, beliefs that serve to keep them stuck in traumaContinue reading CPT for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
504 Plans and IEPs: Getting Your Children the Help They Need
What Are 504 Plans and IEPs? If your child is struggling in school due to physical, emotional or behavioral issues, it might be time to look into services and supports to facilitate their learning. Physical conditions, learning disorders, psychiatric conditions, and developmental disorders can impact a student’s progress, but thankfully, there are resources in place,Continue reading 504 Plans and IEPs: Getting Your Children the Help They Need
Coping with Grief and Loss
Trigger warning: Grief triggers can happen at any time, so please note that a piece about grief may contain triggers for some folks. If you are grieving and are feeling particularly vulnerable, perhaps save this blog for another day. Sarah lost her daughter unexpectedly three years ago. In an instant, her life was forever changed.Continue reading Coping with Grief and Loss
Nervous System Regulation Practices
Nervous System Dysregulation Do you often feel keyed up, shaky and unsettled? Does your heart start pounding, your breathing race, and your muscles tense with stress, conflict, or fear? How about feeling low energy, lethargic, dissociated, or shut down? Depressed or foggy or checked out? These can be signs of nervous system dysregulation. When ourContinue reading Nervous System Regulation Practices
Coping with Holiday Stress
While folks gather, celebrate, eat, and drink over the holidays, it’s important to note that cheer and contentment aren’t everyone’s experience. For many, the holidays can be stressful, and for some, they’re downright difficult. Whether the discomfort is associated with seeing certain family members, eating holiday meals, or traveling, the holiday season can evoke varyingContinue reading Coping with Holiday Stress