It has been dreary here in Maine this October. It’s easy to feel down when the darkness, cold and rain are present, especially after a bright and beautiful summer. Naturally, we all want to find some comfort and warmth to ease the damp chill outside. I’ve noticed that...
Feelings About Feelings
As a therapist, I find that the cause of many mental health issues is not the emotion one naturally feels about an event or situation, it is the reaction to this initial or primary emotion. Often for people experiencing panic, it is the fear or embarrassment of having...
Taking the Fear Out of Change
Some of you might know that I'm really into helping my clients make changes. But I am also very aware that change can feel scary and overwhelming. If you are torn between wanting to make changes, but feeling like it's just too big of a job, you are not alone. I often...
New Home for New Approaches
Big news: the move is complete and today was the first day operating out of the new office at 203 Anderson Street! The new space features more space, more light and views of the Back Cove in Portland. I'm loving the East Bayside location, just off of Marginal Way and...
Outsmart Depression
It's dreary today here in Maine. The cold and dark is beginning to wear on everyone. It is especially hard for those diagnosed with depression. Depression is a serious diagnosis that requires treatment. For more information on depression, check out the National...
Easing Common Fears About Going to Therapy
It's really cool when my clients help others better understand how and why therapy is helpful. I'm especially impressed with my teen clients. They are really great about sharing the news that therapy can be effective and you don't have to be "crazy" to go. People of...
Motivation, Momentum, and Play
I've been inspired lately by someone who works tirelessly to grow and change. She wakes in the wee hours of the morning practicing new skills for hours at a time. Everyday there are profound differences from the day before. It sounds quite tiring, and it is...
2011 Reflection/2012 Preview: Realizing Our Potential
I experienced a lot of change personally and professionally last year. My daughter was born last January. Being a first-time parent pretty much sums up the personal changes from the last year! Professionally, I continued my ongoing study of how people make positive,...
Positive and Helpful Articles on Mental Health
I recently came across some very good articles in the mainstream media about mental health issues. I'm particularly impressed with a series called, "Lives Restored" from The New York Times. It is a series featuring people who have struggled with serious mental health...