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From Surviving to Thriving

From Surviving to Thriving

Last weekend I went to a fantastic concert, right here in Portland. Enjoying the music, I realized I was not just hearing it, but feeling it as well. There were thirteen musicians on stage, so there was a lot to watch. I felt more deeply relaxed than I had in quite...

New Perspectives Make a Difference

New Perspectives Make a Difference

Recently I heard a talk radio program where the host said (in reference to what, I cannot remember), "This is not like psychotherapy where they are trying to fix you..." I couldn't hear the rest because I was in total shock. I knew this point of view existed, but I...

Hopes for Myself as a Mother

Hopes for Myself as a Mother

It’s an odd place to get parenting advice, but the best story regarding mothering I ever heard was from Penn Jillette on Marc Maron’s podcast WTF. Penn talked about how his mother’s philosophy was that she loved and cherished her children for who they were, from the...

Holding Shadows: Forgiveness and Acceptance of the Past

Holding Shadows: Forgiveness and Acceptance of the Past

I'm pleased to offer this piece by guest writer, James Day Leavitt. (photo credit: Siobhán Butler) I imagine my past as a long hallway, with doors along each side of the corridor. Behind some doors are my difficult experiences. Things I don’t want to see anymore. ...

Becoming Self-Assured: It’s Helpful, Not Selfish

Becoming Self-Assured: It’s Helpful, Not Selfish

Being self-assured yields kindness and contentment. This is contrary to what most of us were taught, and yet I’m increasingly sure that it is true. This is why, in my recent post about being self-assured, I questioned the Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary about words...

What Does it Mean to Be Self-Assured?

What Does it Mean to Be Self-Assured?

Can being self-assured help us to go boldly into unknown life territory? This is a question I've been thinking about lately. But what does it mean to be self-assured? To me, it seems like a very desirable quality, something to cultivate in oneself and in our children....

FAQ on Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

FAQ on Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is a very interesting, highly effective type of therapy. I've been working hard lately to spread the word about its usefulness. If you'd like some background on this well-researched therapy that is effective with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety,...

More Info On EMDR and A Big Thank You!

More Info On EMDR and A Big Thank You!

I want to thank Dawn Clancy for having me on her terrific show, Growing Up Chaotic.  Her program is all about overcoming issues related to growing up with addiction, abuse, and overall chaos. I'm inspired by her empowering message and her willingness to share of...