Marital conflict, separation, dissolution and court proceedings can be stressful and even traumatic. The arguments, verbal attacks, grief and feelings of loss or betrayal can be devastating. The result of that trauma, if not resolved, is often anxiety, overt stress, and resistance to interactions with one’s former spouse that trigger extreme anxiety and defensiveness. When…
How I love to think about the beach. Whether it is in the middle of a Colorado winter, or the middle of the summer, I find great peace thinking of the rolling waves, gentle breezes, salty aroma, and warm sand of a beach. Many therapists refer to this as a safe place, but I…
I am flattered to have been recognized for my blogging with two blogging awards: The Beautiful Blogger Award and the Inspiring Blogger Award! I know I am not the most consistent blogger (by a long shot), and I hope to be a more frequent blogger going forward. These awards are certainly motivating! Many thanks to…
Take a deep breath and look around you. Name a few of the wonderful things about this day. Is it the weather? A conversation with a friend? A delicious meal? Giving thanks for the goodness in our lives is a great way to start on the path to more positive thinking. If you need…
Following the tragic events of the Movie Theater shooting, and other horrific events over the last decade or two, it is frequently difficult for individuals to cope with the feelings and anxiety that are elicited by those tragedies. Regardless of whether you were witness to the scene, knew someone who was a victim of,…
Are you living in the moment or are you unaware of the moment because you are so focused on tomorrow, next week, next month or next year? It is easy to coast along on autopilot, lost in our thoughts or worrying about things that are yet to happen. Nevertheless, truly living and enjoying our…
Many clients ask me how they can stop worrying about something when the thought seems to be ever-present. This is a common problem with people struggling with anxiety, depression, stress or grief. The thoughts running through their mind seem to control them as opposed to feeling they have control over their thoughts. Research has…
Victor Frankl, a famous psychologist, said that suffering without meaning equates to despair. So how do we find meaning in our experiences? Knowing how to find meaning in challenges is one of the hallmarks of having hope. So what can be done to foster this important attribute? Look for how you can take something positive…
Ironically, when we judge others, we are really judging ourselves. Our harsh comments or thoughts are more often a reflection of our own issues than someone else’s. But, learning how to change automatic negative thoughts that we have towards others, and ourselves, is often easier said than done. There are a few things you can…
It is easy to become consumed with the down side of situations and to lose site of the goodness and power within ourselves. Nevertheless, recognizing that you have choices is a good starting point that can be truly empowering. Even more important is discovering that you have used the power of choice before in ways…