First Responders are the backbone of our communities. They devote long and often unpredictable hours of professional and volunteer time, as well as expend a great deal of physical and mental energy, to benefit others. The ultimate and goal for a First Responder is to…
Many people will experience trauma in their lifetime. Some individuals will develop PTSD or a similar mental health issue as a result of one or more traumatic events. Know that recovery is possible and within reach. Every day and beyond the month of June, we…
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). SAAM 2023’s theme is “Drawing Connections: Prevention Demands Equity.” Sexual violence is widespread, and individuals impacted by inequity and oppression are more likely to experience sexual violence. In April and beyond, let’s continue to learn, be involved, and…
January 9th is National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. Those who serve in law enforcement safeguard our communities and provide structure, protection, and rescue for the welfare of others. The ultimate and goal for law enforcement is to protect and save, whatever the cost, and many…
When the pandemic hit, many people began to work with their therapists online. As the pandemic unfolded and more and more therapists began using EMDR therapy online, it became clear that this protocol was just as effective used virtually as it was in-person. While anecdotal…
We live in a society that seems obsessed with physical health and weight loss. A majority of people have tried one or more diets to lose weight. People join gyms, juice, and take supplements, all in an effort to optimize their physical health. However, many…
For many children, childhood is a time of wonder, play, and discovery. These children have parents who give them the safety and security to explore the world around them and grow to reach their full potential. But some children have one or more parents who…
The holidays are often a complex time for many people. On the one hand, there is a sense of joy in the air, while on the other hand, sorrow and grief because of either a loss or dysfunctional family dynamic. The following are some ways…
No one ever wants to be on the receiving end of romantic betrayal. The emotional pain of discovering that someone you love and trust has been cheating and lying to you can be overwhelming. When you are the victim of massive deception and betrayal, it…
When tragedies like mass shootings occur, most of us struggle to make sense of it. How could something so terrible happen? What would cause another human being to do such a thing? And how can we move on with the knowledge that this latest mass…
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy, or EMDR, is a set of standardized protocols that incorporate elements from many different treatment approaches. It has been researched extensively and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. What Issues Can EMDR Treat? EMDR is used to treat…
You have most likely heard the term Post Traumatic Stress Disorder – also known as PTSD. It is used to describe the mental and emotional anguish suffered by those who have experienced trauma. PTSD is often experienced by those who have been victims of violence…
For LGBTQIA+ individuals, trauma, discrimination, and minority based stress are primary reasons for entering therapy. Such stressors may lead to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, or other issues. Regardless of the reasons, someone from the community might seek therapy, it is important that their therapist…
August 26th is National Women’s Equality Day; a day to acknowledge how far women have come on their journey toward equality and how much more work is still to be done. While the greatest gender gaps are found primarily in the Middle East, Africa, and…
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives in innumerable ways. But, as stressful as this lockdown has been for most of us, we have learned much about ourselves as individuals and as a nation. Another silver lining that has emerged from this crisis is a…
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR, is a therapeutic protocol used in the treatment of mental and emotional trauma. It has been widely praised in the United States and is currently used by agencies such as the American Psychiatric Association, the International Society for…
June is PTSD Awareness month, but awareness of PTSD and its effects is always important. Many people will experience trauma in their lifetime. Individuals may experience trauma through direct exposure, indirect exposure/witnessing events, or through repeated exposure. Some examples of trauma include emotional/physical/verbal abuse, neglect,…