“I’m a perfectionist” – In a culture obsessed with appearance, performance, and productivity, it’s almost inevitable to fall into the trap of perfectionism. Our society tells you the way to be happy is to achieve your goals; earn more money, have a good body, find a romantic partner, get married, have children, buy a house, buy a car, get promoted… Your to-do list may feel like it’s endless. Most … [Read more...] about Perfectionism or Healthy Striving: What’s the Difference?
Depression
Navigating Imposter Syndrome, Repelling Expert Syndrome, Embracing Humanity, and Achieving Humility
Calling all folks battling bouts of persistent imposter syndrome: We see you for exactly who you are: human beings. We accept your humanity and hope that you’ll do the same. Imposter syndrome. Many of us have likely heard about it in passing or become too familiar with what it entails—a swarm of symptoms that gnaw away at one’s conviction and self-efficacy, transforming them into … [Read more...] about Navigating Imposter Syndrome, Repelling Expert Syndrome, Embracing Humanity, and Achieving Humility
Top 5 Most Common Thinking Errors
“Thinking errors” or “cognitive distortions” are extremely common patterns of thinking that every single person engages in. Some of us engage in these distorted ways of thinking daily, while others may only find themselves doing this when stressed. Thinking errors are completely normal and everyone has them but when they are too frequent or too intense, they can contribute to a problem such as … [Read more...] about Top 5 Most Common Thinking Errors
You Are Not Your Problems?
The problem is the problem; the person is not the problem - Michael White & David Epston This is my favorite quote and a huge part of my therapeutic philosophy. Michael White and David Epston are founders of Narrative Therapy which is an evidence-based therapeutic approach and basically suggests “we are the stories that we tell ourselves”. Language matters. How we talk to ourselves … [Read more...] about You Are Not Your Problems?
Letting Anger Move You
A common statement I hear from clients (more often my female clients) is “I should not be angry.” Clients will shame themselves for feeling angry even in situations in which an appropriate response would be to feel angry. In fact, suppressing or bottling up your anger (especially in situations where anger is warranted) is not healthy! Suppressing or bottling up your anger can cause depression, … [Read more...] about Letting Anger Move You
Natural Ways to Treat Depression
In addition to medication and talk therapy, there are natural ways to treat depression. Remember, medication is not a magic bullet. Many people find they still need to make lifestyle changes even if they are taking medication. Consider the following natural ways to treat depression: Use a Light Box: Light boxes have been shown to reduce depression symptoms. Light boxes are easy to use and … [Read more...] about Natural Ways to Treat Depression
