Blogs
Below are several resources we curate and comment on to help those in the local community — parents, teachers, counselors, therapists and the general community — better understand our perspective as well as the latest topics in psychotherapy.
Nature and Mental Health
The human connection with nature has been a subject of intrigue and study for centuries, and in recent years, the importance of this connection for mental health has gained increasing recognition. The importance of having direct contact with nature in the maintenance...
Benefits of Family Therapy
For many families, having a strong connection and relationship with one another is valued. Some families struggle with conflict between one another which creates a stressful home environment. The goal of family therapy is to strengthen these connections by looking at...
Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
When searching for a therapist, you will find that you have many different styles and techniques to choose from. Some therapists will be explicit about the modalities they practice and others will not. This post will provide the basics about one approach to therapy...
Student Athletes and Mental Health
The athletics industry is constantly changing and evolving in today’s society. It is important that student-athletes can improve their own mental health, as well as identify ways their friends, families, and coaches can support them. Ways for friends and family...
The Digital Dilemma: Technology Addiction in Teens
In today's digital age, technology plays an increasingly central role in the lives of teenagers. From smartphones to social media, video games to virtual reality, the digital world offers endless opportunities for connection, entertainment, and exploration. However,...
Nonviolent Communication
Many of us have likely experienced the uncomfortable feeling of having to initiate or engage in a difficult conversation with family, friends, coworkers, or even partners. Nonviolent communication is a great tool that can be used in order to foster connection,...
Exercise and Mental Health
Many people talk about the importance of self care practices in mental health. When you hear the term self-care, you may think of activities such as taking a bath or getting a massage rather than exercise. However, exercise can be one consistent and helpful way to...
Understanding Depression: The Basics
Depression is often mistaken for mere sadness or a stuck mood that one can simply "snap out of” by attempting to redirect their thoughts. However, depression is a complex mental health condition that goes far beyond the occasional sad mood. It is a persistent feeling...
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: The Basics
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. OCD is characterized by the presence of obsessions and compulsions that significantly interfere with an individual's daily life....
Battling the Winter Blues
Living in New England, the winter months can have a major impact on our mental health. Many people find themselves experiencing seasonal depression, also referred to as seasonal affective disorder. We will discuss what seasonal affective disorder is, the symptoms,...
Understanding Anxiety: The Basics
The word “anxiety” can be easily misunderstood to be something that is always a bad thing. But actually, anxiety is a healthy and normal part of life. However, when our anxiety becomes so prevalent and pervasive that it prevents us from living well and being...
Are You a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)?
High sensitivity is an impactful personality trait observed in 15-20% of people. It is characterized by deep cognitive processing, elevated emotional intensity, and increased sensitivity to stimuli. Dr. Elaine Aron, who introduced the term Highly Sensitive Person in...
Do You Know How to Use the Lifesaving 211 Helpline in Connecticut?
A Guiding Light for Suicide Prevention. Maybe you’ve heard of the 211 helpline, operated by the United Way. The 211 helpline in Connecticut is a free, confidential service available 24/7 to all residents. It’s designed as a comprehensive support provision that aids...
Six Core Skills of Mindfulness
In DBT, Mindfulness plays a big role in every skill you learn. Mindfulness teaches us to be in the present moment to have full awareness of what’s going on within us and around us, without judgment, and actively participating in what works. Since this skill is...