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01

How to Successfully Co-parent with your Ex Partner and How it Benefits your Child

Posted by Collaborative Counseling
How to Successfully Co-parent with your Ex Partner and How it Benefits your Child

Co-parenting can be a challenge, but it is essential for the well-being of your children. When you co-parent effectively, you are setting your children up for success in all areas of their lives.

Here are some tips for successfully co-parenting with your ex partner:

  • Put your child first. This may seem obvious, but it is important to remember that your child’s needs come first, even when you are in the middle of a conflict with your ex. When you make decisions about your child, always ask yourself, “What is best for my child?”
  • Communicate effectively. Communication is essential for successful co-parenting. It is important to be able to communicate openly and honestly with your ex, even if you don’t always agree. Try to avoid using negative language or name-calling. Instead, focus on the needs of your child and how you can work together to meet them.
  • Be respectful. Even though you are no longer together, you should still treat each other with respect. This will set a good example for your children and make co-parenting easier.
  • Agree on a parenting plan. This plan should outline things like visitation schedules, child support, and decision-making procedures. Having a plan in place will help to avoid conflict and confusion.
  • Be consistent. Consistency is important for children, and it is even more important when they are co-parenting. This means having similar rules and expectations at both homes. It also means being consistent with your communication and your behavior.
  • Avoid speaking negatively about your ex. It is important to set a good example for your child by avoiding speaking negatively about your ex. This can be difficult, but it is important to remember that your child loves both of you, and they don’t need to hear you bad mouthing each other.
  • Celebrate your child’s successes together. When your child accomplishes something, be sure to celebrate their success together with your ex. This shows your child that you are both proud of them and that you are working together to support them.

Here are some of the benefits of successfully co-parenting:

  • Children have a better emotional and behavioral outcome. Children who co-parent with their parents have lower rates of depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems. They also have better relationships with their parents and their peers.
  • Children are happier and healthier. Studies have shown that children who have successfully co-parenting parents are happier and healthier than those who do not.
  • Children have better relationships with both parents. When parents are able to co-parent effectively, their children are more likely to have close relationships with both of them.
  • Children are more resilient. Children who are raised in a co-parenting environment are more likely to be resilient in the face of challenges.
  • Parents are less stressed. When parents are able to co-parent effectively, they are less stressed. This is because they do not have to worry about the other parent doing something that will harm their children.

Co-parenting is not always easy, but it is worth it for the sake of your children. By following these tips, you can set your children up for success in all areas of their lives.

Talking to a therapist, counselor, or mediator could help if you are struggling to co-parent with your ex. 

Here are some free online resources for co-parenting as well:

  • UptoParents (https://www.uptoparents.org) offers a free online co-parenting class with a certificate of completion. The class covers topics such as communication, conflict resolution, and setting boundaries.
  • TalkingParents (https://talkingparents.com) provides a variety of free resources for co-parents, including articles, videos, and toolkits.
  • The Gottman Institute (https://www.gottman.com) offers a free online guide to co-parenting. The guide covers topics such as staying connected with your child, setting boundaries, and resolving conflict.
  • The National Parent Information Network (https://npen.org) provides a list of free co-parenting resources, including websites, apps, and books.
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11

Tips and Tools on how to work through frustration

Posted by Collaborative Counseling
Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging

How to Work Through Frustration

Frustration is a normal human emotion that everyone experiences from time to time. It can be caused by a variety of things, such as:

  • Not being able to achieve a goal
  • Dealing with difficult people
  • Experiencing setbacks
  • Feeling overwhelmed

When we’re frustrated, it can be hard to think clearly and make rational decisions. We may lash out at others, become withdrawn, or give up altogether. But it’s important to remember that frustration is temporary. It doesn’t have to control us.

Here are some tips on how to work through frustration:

  1. Acknowledge your feelings. The first step to dealing with frustration is to acknowledge that you’re feeling it. Don’t try to bottle it up or pretend that you’re not bothered. Instead, take a few deep breaths and allow yourself to feel the frustration.
  2. Take a break. Sometimes, the best way to deal with frustration is to take a break from the situation that’s causing it. Get up and move around, or take a few minutes to relax and clear your head.
  3. Talk to someone. Sometimes, it can be helpful to talk to someone about your frustration. This could be a friend, family member, therapist, or anyone else you trust. Talking can help you to process your feelings and get some perspective.
  4. Change your perspective. Sometimes, the best way to deal with frustration is to change your perspective on the situation. Instead of focusing on the negative, try to find something positive to focus on. For example, if you’re frustrated because you’re not achieving a goal, try to focus on the progress you’ve made so far.
  5. Take action. If you’re feeling stuck, sometimes the best way to deal with frustration is to take action. This could mean making a plan to achieve your goal, setting boundaries with difficult people, or asking for help when you need it.
  6. Practice self-care. When we’re feeling frustrated, it’s important to practice self-care. This could mean getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, exercising, or doing something you enjoy. Self-care can help us to manage our stress and feel better overall.

Frustration is a normal emotion, but it doesn’t have to control us. By following these tips, we can learn to work through frustration in a healthy way.

Here are some additional tips that may be helpful:

  • Identify your triggers. What are the things that typically make you feel frustrated? Once you know your triggers, you can start to avoid them or develop strategies for coping with them.
  • Set realistic expectations. Don’t expect to be perfect or to achieve your goals overnight. Set realistic expectations for yourself and be patient with yourself when you don’t meet them.
  • Learn to say no. Don’t be afraid to say no to things that you don’t have time for or that will add to your stress. It’s okay to prioritize your own needs sometimes.
  • Delegate tasks. If you have too much on your plate, don’t be afraid to delegate tasks to others. This will free up your time so that you can focus on the things that are most important to you.
  • Take a step back. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a step back and look at the situation from a different perspective. Sometimes, all you need is a little distance to see the solution.
  • Remember that you’re not alone. Everyone experiences frustration from time to time. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone and that there are people who care about you and want to help.

If you’re struggling to work through frustration on your own, it may be helpful to talk to a therapist or counselor. They can help you to develop coping mechanisms and strategies for dealing with frustration in a healthy way.

Remember, frustration is a normal emotion. It doesn’t have to control you. By following the tips in this article, you can learn to work through frustration in a healthy way and live a more fulfilling life.

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02

Mental Health Myths

Posted by Collaborative Counseling
How to Know When You Need Therapy or Counseling?

Mental health is just as important as physical health, but it is often stigmatized and misunderstood. There are many myths about mental health that can prevent people from seeking help when they need it. Here are some of the most common mental health myths:

Myth #1: Only weak people have mental health problems.

This is simply not true. Mental health problems can affect anyone, regardless of their strength or weakness. In fact, some of the strongest and most successful people in the world have spoken openly about their struggles with mental health.

Myth #2: Mental health problems are not real.

Mental health problems are very real and can have a significant impact on a person’s life. They are caused by a combination of biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Just like physical health problems, mental health problems can be treated with medication, therapy, or a combination of both.

Myth #3: You can just “snap out of it” if you try hard enough.

Mental health problems are not something that you can just “snap out of.” They require professional help and treatment. Trying to “tough it out” or “wishing it away” will not make the problem go away.

Myth #4: People with mental health problems are dangerous.

This is a dangerous myth that can lead to people with mental health problems being discriminated against and avoided. In reality, people with mental health problems are no more likely to be violent than anyone else. In fact, they are more likely to be the victims of violence.

Myth #5: Children don’t have mental health problems.

Children can and do experience mental health problems. In fact, one in five children will have a mental health problem by the time they reach adulthood. It is important to get help for children with mental health problems early on, as untreated problems can have a lasting impact on their development.

Myth #6: Mental health problems are a sign of weakness.

Having a mental health problem does not mean that you are weak. It means that you are struggling with something that is out of your control. There is no shame in seeking help for a mental health problem. In fact, it is a sign of strength to ask for help when you need it.

Myth #7: You can’t have both mental and physical health problems.

This is simply not true. In fact, many people with mental health problems also have physical health problems. The two are often interconnected. For example, stress can contribute to both physical and mental health problems.

Myth #8: Mental health problems are only treatable with medication.

While medication can be an effective treatment for some mental health problems, it is not the only treatment option. Therapy, lifestyle changes, and other complementary therapies can also be helpful.

Myth #9: Once you have a mental health problem, you will always have it.

This is not always the case. Many people with mental health problems recover and go on to live healthy and productive lives. With the right treatment, it is possible to manage your mental health and live a full and meaningful life.

Myth #10: Mental health problems are not a disability.

This is also not true. Mental health problems can qualify as a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This means that people with mental health problems are protected from discrimination in employment, education, and other areas.

These are just a few of the many myths about mental health. It is important to remember that mental health is just as important as physical health. If you are struggling with a mental health problem, please know that you are not alone and that there is help available. Talk to your doctor, a therapist, or a mental health professional. There is no shame in seeking help, and it could make a big difference in your life.

Here are some additional resources for mental health information and support:

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27

How to Maintain a Long-Lasting Relationship With Your Partner

Posted by Collaborative Counseling

Maintaining a long-lasting relationship is not always easy, but it is definitely possible with effort and commitment. Here are some tips to help you keep your relationship strong and healthy for years to come:

1. Communicate openly and honestly.

Communication is key to any successful relationship. Make sure you are always open and honest with your partner, even when it is difficult. This means sharing your thoughts, feelings, and needs, as well as listening to your partner’s thoughts, feelings, and needs. It is also important to be respectful of your partner’s opinions, even if you disagree with them.

2. Show your love and appreciation.

It is important to let your partner know how much you love and appreciate them on a regular basis. This can be done through words, actions, or gifts. Some examples of ways to show your love and appreciation include:

  • Saying “I love you”
  • Giving your partner a hug or kiss
  • Doing something nice for your partner, such as cooking dinner, running errands, or giving them a massage
  • Buying your partner a gift, such as flowers, jewelry, or a new book

3. Spend time together.

It is important to make time for your partner, even when you are busy. This means setting aside time for date nights, weekend getaways, or just spending time together at home. It is also important to be present when you are with your partner and to avoid distractions such as your phone or computer.

4. Be supportive.

Being supportive of your partner means being there for them when they need you. This means listening to them when they are going through a tough time, offering advice or help when they need it, and celebrating their successes.

5. Be willing to compromise.

No two people are exactly alike, so it is important to be willing to compromise in a relationship. This means being willing to give up something that you want in order to make your partner happy, and vice versa. It is also important to be willing to work through disagreements and find solutions that work for both of you.

6. Forgive each other.

Everyone makes mistakes, so it is important to be willing to forgive your partner when they do something to hurt you. Forgiveness does not mean forgetting what happened, but it does mean letting go of anger and resentment.

7. Continue to grow and learn.

As people, we are constantly growing and learning. This means that our relationships are also constantly evolving. It is important to be willing to grow and learn together as a couple. This can be done by talking about your hopes and dreams, taking classes together, or traveling to new places.

8. Seek help if needed.

If you are struggling in your relationship, do not be afraid to seek help. There are many resources available to help couples improve their relationships, such as counseling, therapy, or support groups.

Maintaining a long-lasting relationship takes effort and commitment. However, it is definitely possible with the right tools and strategies. By following the tips above, you can increase your chances of having a happy and fulfilling relationship for years to come.

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25

Procrastination can be a challenge, but it is not impossible to overcome!

Posted by Collaborative Counseling
New thinking

Procrastination is the act of delaying or postponing a task or set of tasks. It is a common human behavior that can have a negative impact on our productivity, our personal and professional relationships, and our overall well-being.

There are many reasons why we procrastinate. Sometimes, we procrastinate because we are afraid of failure. We may worry that we won’t be able to do the task well, or that we will make a mistake. Other times, we procrastinate because we are not motivated. We may not see the value in the task, or we may be overwhelmed by it. And sometimes, we procrastinate simply because it is easier than doing the task.

Whatever the reason, procrastination can be a major obstacle to our success. It can prevent us from achieving our goals, meeting deadlines, and fulfilling our potential.

If you are struggling with procrastination, there are a number of things you can do to overcome it. Here are a few tips:

  1. Set concrete goals. When you have a clear goal in mind, it is much easier to stay motivated and avoid procrastination. So take some time to think about what you want to achieve, and then break it down into smaller, more manageable steps.
  2. Break down tasks into smaller chunks. Large tasks can seem daunting and overwhelming, which can lead to procrastination. To avoid this, break down tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks that you can complete in a shorter amount of time.
  3. Start with a tiny step. Even if you’re not feeling motivated, you can still make progress by starting with a tiny step. Just commit to doing something, no matter how small, and then build on that momentum.
  4. Give yourself permission to make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes, so don’t let the fear of failure hold you back. Just focus on taking action and learning from your mistakes along the way.
  5. Focus on just doing, rather than doing well. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, it can be helpful to focus on just doing the task, rather than trying to do it perfectly. Just get started and worry about the quality later.
  6. Switch things up. If you’re getting bored or stuck, try switching things up. Change your environment, take a break, or try a different approach. Sometimes, a fresh perspective is all you need to get motivated.
  7. Figure out what you’re afraid of, and address your fears. Sometimes, procrastination is rooted in fear. We may be afraid of failure, of success, or of something else entirely. Once you identify your fear, you can start to address it and overcome it.

Procrastination can be a tough habit to break, but it is possible. By following these tips, you can learn to overcome procrastination and achieve your goals.

Here are some additional tips that may help you stop procrastinating:

  • Set aside specific times for work and play. This will help you avoid distractions and stay focused on your work.
  • Reward yourself for completing tasks. This will help you stay motivated and make procrastination less appealing.
  • Find a partner or accountability group. This can help you stay on track and avoid giving in to procrastination.
  • Delegate tasks. If you have too much on your plate, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
  • Take breaks. Don’t try to work for hours on end without taking a break. Get up and move around, or take a few minutes to relax and clear your head.
  • Get organized. Having a system for keeping track of your tasks and deadlines can help you avoid procrastination.
  • Avoid distractions. Turn off your phone, close your email, and find a quiet place to work.
  • Believe in yourself. You can do it! Just take it one step at a time.

Procrastination can be a challenge, but it is not impossible to overcome. By following these tips, you can learn to stop procrastinating and achieve your goals.

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11

Remembering 9/11: The Courage, Strength, and Resilience of the Human Spirit

Posted by Collaborative Counseling

Twenty-two years ago today, the world changed forever. On September 11, 2001, terrorists hijacked four airplanes and carried out a series of coordinated attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people and injured thousands more.

The attacks were a horrific act of violence, but they also brought out the best in humanity. In the days and weeks that followed, people from all over the world came together to show their support for the victims and their families.

We saw acts of courage and compassion from firefighters, police officers, and ordinary citizens. We saw people donate blood, volunteer their time, and open their hearts to those in need.

The courage, strength, and resilience of the human spirit was on full display in the aftermath of 9/11. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope.

Here are some specific examples of the courage, strength, and resilience of the people in the aftermath of 9/11:

  • Firefighters and police officers risked their lives to save others.
  • Ordinary citizens volunteered their time and money to help the victims and their families.
  • People from all over the world donated blood and other supplies.
  • Businesses and organizations offered free or discounted services to help those in need.
  • Children wrote letters of support to the victims and their families.
  • Survivors of the attacks found the strength to rebuild their lives.

The attacks of 9/11 were a terrible tragedy, but they also showed us the best of humanity. We saw people come together to help each other in a time of need. We saw the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.

How Can We Celebrate the Courage, Strength, and Resilience of the People?

  1. Honor the past. Learn about the history of your community or country and the challenges that people have faced. This can help you to appreciate the courage and strength of those who came before you.
  2. Recognize the present. Be aware of the challenges that people are facing today, both locally and globally. This could include things like poverty, war, or natural disasters. Find ways to support those who are struggling.
  3. Celebrate the good. There are many stories of courage, strength, and resilience happening all around us. Take the time to read about or watch these stories to be inspired.
  4. Get involved. There are many ways to get involved in your community and make a difference. You could volunteer your time, donate to a cause, or start your own project.
  5. Be kind. One of the simplest ways to celebrate the courage, strength, and resilience of others is to be kind to them. This could mean something as small as holding the door open for someone or as big as donating blood or volunteering at a soup kitchen.

We can also celebrate the courage, strength, and resilience of the people by living our lives to the fullest. Let us never take our freedom for granted and let us always be willing to help others in need.

Conclusion

September 11, 2001 was a dark day in our history, but it also showed us the best of humanity. The courage, strength, and resilience of the people in the aftermath of the attacks is an inspiration to us all.

Let us never forget the victims and their families, and let us always strive to live our lives to the fullest. We can honor the memory of those who lost their lives on 9/11 by being courageous, strong, and resilient in the face of adversity.

Here are some resources for those who are struggling with grief or trauma:

  • National Center for PTSD: This website provides information and resources on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including coping strategies, treatment options, and support groups. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/.
  • American Psychological Association: This website provides information on grief and loss, trauma, and coping strategies, as well as a directory of psychologists who specialize in these areas.  https://www.apa.org/topics/grief/.
  • The Dougy Center: The Dougy Center is a national organization that provides grief support to children, teens, and their families. You can find their website here: https://www.dougy.org/.
  • The Compassionate Friends: This organization provides support to bereaved parents and families. https://www.compassionatefriends.org/.
  • The National Child Traumatic Stress Network: This website provides information and resources on childhood traumatic stress, including treatment options and support groups. https://www.nctsn.org/.
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04

Labor Day: A Celebration of Hard Work

Posted by Collaborative Counseling
How to combat stress during the holiday season

Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States that is celebrated on the first Monday of September. It is a day to commemorate the contributions of workers to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of the country. Labor Day, A Celebration of Hard Work.

Today, Labor Day is a day for people to relax and enjoy the fruits of their labor. It is also a day to reflect on the progress that we have made as a nation, and to recommit ourselves to the fight for a better future for all workers.

The Importance of Hard Work

Hard work is essential to the success of any society. It is through hard work that we create the goods and services that we need to live and thrive. It is also through hard work that we build strong communities and a better future for ourselves and our children.

Hard work is not always easy. It can be physically and mentally demanding. It can also be frustrating and discouraging. But when we persevere through hard times and continue to work hard, we are rewarded with a sense of accomplishment, pride, and satisfaction.

We should all be proud of the hard work that we do. Whether we are working in a traditional job, running our own business, or raising a family, we are all making a contribution to society. We should never take our hard work for granted.

Celebrating the Hard Work That You Do

This Labor Day, I encourage you to take some time to reflect on the hard work that you do. Be grateful for the opportunities that you have. Be proud of your accomplishments and the contributions that you make to your community. And remember that you are not alone. There are millions of people who work hard every day, just like you.

And don’t forget to celebrate the hard work of others. Thank the people who make your life possible, from the farmers who grow our food to the teachers who educate our children.

Thank you for your hard work and have a happy and safe Labor Day!

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13

How to Help Family Members with Mental Health Issues

Posted by Collaborative Counseling

Mental health issues are a common occurrence in the United States, affecting one in five adults each year. While mental health issues can affect anyone, they are more common in certain populations, such as young adults, women, and people of color.

If you have a family member who is struggling with a mental health issue, it is important to know that you are not alone. Listed below there are many resources available to help you and your family member get the support they need.

Here are some ideas on how to help your family member with a mental health issue:

  • First, Educate yourself about mental health issues. The more you know about mental health, the better equipped you will be to help your family member. There are many resources available to help you learn more about mental health, including books, websites, and support groups.
  • Secondly, Talk to your family member about their mental health. Let them know that you are there for them and that you want to help. Furthermore Encourage them to talk to you about how they are feeling and what they are going through.
  • Thirdly, Support your family member in seeking professional help. If your family member is struggling with a mental health issue, it is important to encourage them to seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide your family member with the support and treatment they need to get better.
  • Lastly, Be patient and understanding. It is important to be patient and understanding with your family member as they work through their mental health issue. Recovery takes time, so be there for them every step of the way.

Resources for Mental Health in Wisconsin and Minnesota

There are many resources available to help people with mental health issues in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Here are a few of the resources available in these states:

  • Wisconsin Department of Health Services: The Wisconsin Department of Health Services provides a variety of resources for people with mental health issues, including information on mental health disorders, treatment options, and support groups.
  • Minnesota Department of Human Services: The Minnesota Department of Human Services provides similar resources to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): NAMI is a national organization that provides support and advocacy for people with mental illness and their families. NAMI has chapters in both Wisconsin and Minnesota.
  • MentalHealth.gov: MentalHealth.gov is a website from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that provides information on mental health disorders, treatment options, and support groups.

If you are struggling with a mental health issue or know someone who is, please know that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you get the support you need.

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24

Pride Month: A Celebration of LGBTQ+ Identity and History

Posted by Collaborative Counseling
Pride Month;A Celebration of LGBTQ+ Identity and History

Pride Month: A Celebration of LGBTQ+ Identity and History

June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and its history. The month is marked by parades, festivals, and other events that bring people together to celebrate their identity and advocate for equality.

What is Pride Month?

Pride Month is an annual observance that commemorates the 1969 Stonewall riots in New York City. The riots were a turning point in the gay liberation movement, and they helped to spark the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in the United States and around the world.

The first Pride march was held in New York City in 1970, and it was a small event with about 1,000 people in attendance. However, the march quickly grew in popularity, and today Pride events are held all over the world.

How to Celebrate Pride Month

There are many ways to celebrate Pride Month. Some people participate in parades, marches, and other public demonstrations. Others attend festivals, concerts, and other cultural events. Still others simply wear rainbow flags or other symbols of pride.

Here are some additional ideas for celebrating Pride Month:

  • Attend a Pride parade or march.
  • Go to a Pride festival or concert.
  • Visit a local LGBTQ+ community center.
  • Volunteer for an LGBTQ+ organization.
  • Support LGBTQ+ businesses.
  • Be an ally to LGBTQ+ people in your community.
  • Talk to your friends and family about LGBTQ+ issues.

Support Resources

There are many resources available to help you learn more about LGBTQ+ issues and celebrate Pride Month. Here are a few:

Why is Pride Month Important?

Pride Month is important because it is a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and its achievements. It is also a time to raise awareness of LGBTQ+ issues and advocate for equality.

Pride Month is a reminder that the LGBTQ+ community has come a long way, but there is still work to be done. We must continue to fight for equality for all LGBTQ+ people, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender identity, or socioeconomic status.

Conclusion

Pride Month is a celebration of LGBTQ+ Identity and history, but it is also a time to reflect on the challenges that the LGBTQ+ community still faces. In conclusion we must continue to fight for equality for all LGBTQ+ people, furthermore we must never forget the sacrifices that have been made to get us where we are today.

Happy Pride Month From Collaborative Counseling!

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07

How Therapy Strengthens Love

Posted by Collaborative Counseling
love

The Valentine’s Day season is around the corner, and so is the pressure to celebrate it. During this time of year, there is no shortage of candy brands reminding us that the best way to express love is through treats. The fact of the matter is that love is a daily choice that requires much more than chocolate. 

Oftentimes we can get caught up in the overwhelming stress of life’s commitments. Therapy is a tool that helps us process our feelings and open our minds to giving and receiving love, thereby strengthening our relationship with others. 

Therapy teaches us to love ourselves with…

Compassion

Maybe you’re familiar with the phrase “You are your own worst critic”. 

Unfortunately, this phrase holds more truth than we want to believe. Psychology Today’s article discusses the negative impact that self-criticism can have on our mental health. Therapy creates a safe space where we can process the internal disapproval that we allow ourselves to be burdened with. By reducing some of these burdens, we can free our minds to make room for more positive mindfulness and self-love. 

Recognition

When we’ve learned to exercise compassion, there will then be space for recognition. The thought of having to be mindful and vulnerable is scary, but breaking down our internal barriers empowers us to see our strengths. All too often, we do not give ourselves enough credit for the good qualities that we have. We have a tendency to break ourselves down, instead of building ourselves up. By doing the opposite, and recognizing our strengths, we can master the art of loving who we are. 

Development

One way we can learn to love ourselves is by taking steps to help us meet our potential. Therapy creates a safe space where we can discover what we need to grow. This can be hard to do, as sometimes we are forced to acknowledge parts of ourselves that we hope not to. But, by managing bad habits or negative mindsets, we can develop into the thriving person we hope to be.

Therapy teaches us to love others with…

Communication

Communication is an important part of every relationship. If you google synonyms for “communication” you might find words like “give” or “deliver”. Very rarely do we equivocate communication with “receiving”. It’s important to remember that communication between two people goes both ways. While this practice requires speaking with calm tones and kind words, it also requires active listening. Therapy not only teaches us the techniques to be heard, but also the ability to hear others. This can be hard to put into practice, but, when done correctly, allows us to build a greater connection. 

If you’re looking for active ways that you can practice better communication with your partner, check out our blog on 10 Communication Tips for Couples

Recognition

When we interact with others, we tend to get caught up in the moment. It’s easy to forget that the other person has a different perspective from our own. Therapy teaches us to take a step back and recognize the kinds of burdens that others might be carrying. Check out Psychology Today’s article on the 5 Ways Empathy is Good for Your Health. By practicing empathy, we will find that we can build stronger connections with others. 

Compassion

Just like we should work to be less critical of ourselves, therapy helps us to be less critical of each other. It can be hard to let go of the things that hurt us, but the practice of compassion can help us move forward. Therapy creates a safe environment where we can learn this skill, together, and strengthen our connections.

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