Therapy Thursday

While sometimes we use the terms shame and guilt interchangeably, they are in fact hugely different, and using one over the other can be a game changer for our emotional health.  Originally shared May 15, 2020 on Instagram, @tjcounseling

There are so many things in life that we tell ourselves are "supposed to" go a certain way. But not only are those "supposed to"s made up, they can seriously mess with your mental health. Originally shared 5-7-20 on Instagram @tjcounseling.

One of the most common issues that causes stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms to worsen for almost anyone is change in life. Even if it is a good change, it can be exhausting. So let's examine how we can better embrace change. Originally shared April 30, 2020 on Instagram @tjcounseling

In one of my most serious Therapy Thursday topics, we address suicide from all angles, those with suicidal thoughts, those who have lost a loved one to suicide, and everyone in between, because this is an issue that affects all of us. Originally shared April 23, 2020 on Instagram. @tjcounseling

It sounds like a simple thing - give people permission to be wrong about you - but it has been really life changing for me to reduce feelings of defensiveness and perfectionism. Originally shared April 16, 2020 on Instagram @tjcounseling

It may sound crazy, especially in a world filled with seemingly constant world-altering events, but I promise that unfollowing cable news can make a huge difference in your mindset and outlook of life. Originally shared April 9, 2020 on Instagram

In a world that often encourages "positive thinking" above all else, let's examine why I've found that choosing thoughts that serve you over thoughts that are just always positive actually tends to be more beneficial. Originally shared April 2, 2020 on Instagram. 

This is one my new favorite mantras. It has helped me so much to reduce the unnecessary fretting and worrying which was adding nothing but anxiety to my life. Originally shared March 26, 2020 on Instagram

Ironically, the more you try to control, the less control you actually have. I know it sounds backwards, but let's break it down in this episode of Therapy Thursday. Originally shared March 19, 2020 on Instagram.

Circumstances, Thoughts, Feelings, Actions, and Results. These 5 pieces make up what is called "the model." It's a simple and effective way of breaking down what happens in life to help you find more happiness and control. Originally shared on March 12, 2020 on Instagram.

Use this helpful tool when you are having one of those potentially difficult conversations. It helps minimize the chances of defensiveness and maximize the chance of a success. Originally shared February 27, 2020 on Instagram. 

Let's dig through another helpful analogy for your emotions. Today, we will talk about how feelings are similar to indicator lights in your car. How? Listen to find out! Originally shared February 20, 2020 on Instagram.

Brought to you from Disneyland! Although it is marketed as "the happiest place on Earth," Disneyland serves as a great example of an important therapeutic reality check - that circumstances are neutral! Originally shared February 13, 2020 on Instagram.

In this episode I walk you through one of my favorite mindfulness techniques. Use it for daily mediation or to receive anxiety and stress! Originally shared February 6, 2020 on Instagram.

Did you know that the human brain would rather be right than happy? Sounds backwards, but it's true! Lets find out why and how understanding this principle can help us take charge of our thoughts and feelings. Originally shared January 30, 2020 on Instagram.

A lot of people have misunderstandings about what therapy is or why it is important. I find this analogy to be simple and effective for explaining why mental health is important and therapy is nothing to be ashamed of! Originally published January 23, 2020

Tune in for a quick intro to the Therapy Thursday family! I'm so thrilled to be able to bring this project that I have been working on for the last two years into the podcast world! If you're new, stick around for lots of great content, and be sure to check out my Instagram @tjcounseling for more awesome mental health resources.