Body image refers to how we perceive our physical selves and how we think others perceive us. It’s a complex interplay of self-esteem, societal standards, and personal experiences. For many, this perception can be strongly influenced by external forces, such as social media and the larger cultural context, as well as internal insecurities. Beauty standards are often unattainable and unhealthy, which can place us in a double bind of striving for external appearances different than our own, or feeling like we are unattractive or outcasted from others.

Complex and challenging relationships with parents are one of the many struggles adults today face and seek guidance and healing around in our therapy offices. These struggles are often born from experiences and dynamics of childhood that continue to influence the parent-child relationship in adulthood. Sometimes, these dynamics are very evident, and other times they may be more subtle and hard to correlate with current experience.

So, you’ve got the ring, the venue, and the guest list all set. But have you considered another helpful part of wedding preparation? Premarital therapy.

In recent years, there has been growing recognition of the profound impact hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can have on the psychological well-being of transgender and non-binary (trans/NB+)  folx. While the physical changes brought about by HRT are often highlighted, the emotional and mental health benefits are equally significant and deserving of attention. HRT has a high potential to contribute to a more fulfilling and authentic life for many trans/NB+ people.

When considering how to approach relational challenges, one area of exploration that may be helpful is identifying and processing past trauma, often stemming from early attachment experiences. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is commonly used for healing individual trauma, which in turn can heal attachment wounds that come from it. Below we will discuss the relationship between EMDR therapy and attachment theory, and how combining these two lenses can help facilitate profound healing.

Letting people into the inner workings of your relationship style and identity can be helpful on the journey towards showing up as your authentic self in all aspects of life. For many, sharing with family and friends that you identify as non-monogamous—whether polyamorous, open, or exploring alternative relationship structures—can be a daunting but necessary step. Here’s how to navigate this journey with grace and authenticity.

In the fast-paced, and sometimes oppressive, world of corporate America, it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle. With deadlines looming and meetings stacked back-to-back, many professionals find themselves operating on autopilot, dimming their unique spark. However, maintaining your “main character energy” (MCE) is essential for not only your personal growth but also for creating a dynamic workplace culture. Here’s how to keep your energy vibrant and impactful in the corporate environment.

Sexual health is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being, yet many individuals struggle with sexual dysfunction, often linked to past trauma. Understanding the relationship between trauma and sexual dysfunction can empower those affected and pave the way for healing, connection, and pleasure. No experience of traumatic events is undeserving of care and attention, especially when it has impacts on different areas of functioning.

Being a mom...one of the most rewarding roles AND a role that comes with many layers of responsibility, much of that responsibility going unseen to the outside world. From the moment a child is born, a mother begins a journey of giving, guiding and ensuring everything is running smoothly for the family. Whether she works outside the home or solely manages the household, a mom is often trying to balance a diverse mix of duties and demands. But what does it really mean to carry all this responsibility? And why is it so important to recognize the depth of what moms do, even when they don't ask for recognition?

For many LGBTQ+ individuals, the holidays can be a time of mixed emotions. The idea of returning home to family is a universal one, but for those in the LGBTQ+ community, it sometimes comes with the heavy weight of potential rejection, fear, and anxiety. While some might find comfort and solace in being with their loved ones, for others, the journey home is riddled with emotional challenges. This post is an exploration of the complexities of being LGBTQ+ and navigating the experience of returning home to a family that might not understand or accept your identity.

The decision to go home can be difficult. You might feel the pull of tradition and nostalgia, the desire to reconnect with your roots, or the longing for family warmth, but it’s often accompanied by deep dread. The question of whether to come out, whether to be yourself, or whether to hide part of who you are can occupy your mental space. For many, these questions come with the pain of not being able to live authentically in a space where love and acceptance should be unconditional.

Last month I focused on the unseen weight that mom’s carry and it felt suiting to follow that up with a look at what a fathers experience can be like. When we think about mental health, we often think about the challenges mothers face, or even the struggles of children. However, one of the most under-discussed areas of mental health is that of fathers. There tends to be an unspoken burden on dads to be strong; to be providers and protectors. But what happens when dad isn’t okay?

In today’s world, love is a powerful force that transcends barriers—whether they are cultural, geographic, or even racial. Interracial dating, where individuals from different racial or ethnic backgrounds form romantic relationships, is becoming more common and accepted. While it has come a long way in terms of social acceptance, it’s important to understand the beauty, challenges, and depth of interracial relationships. This post will explore the positive aspects of interracial dating and provide insights on how we can embrace these relationships with respect and understanding.