The Magic of Therapy
A blog about the transformational power of psychotherapy and how it helps us blossom into the wholesome being we are.
Understanding Relationship OCD and how it relates to attachment trauma.
Brain image studies demonstrate that the same brain circuits that light up when infants interact with caregivers light up when we interact with adult romantic partners. Science has illustrated what we therapists have seen in our offices for years. This is why the intersection of attachment and trauma research is so crucial in the way we understand and heal our relationships with others and with ourselves. In this blog, I want to discuss relationship OCD as an attachment trauma response and provide some insights into understanding and healing.
How to manage dating anxiety when you have an anxious attachment style
When you have an anxious attachment, the novelty, discovery, and excitement of dating turn into a hot ball of uncertainty. You're constantly questioning your partner's intentions, the current status, and the relationship's future. You forget your own when focused on your partner's feelings and intentions. You need to reflect on how they make you feel, if their values align with your own, if their lifestyle is what you envision for yourself, etc. This heightened vigilance and concern with the other (primary caregiver in childhood and partner in adulthood) leave little room to focus and prioritize oneself. The fear of abandonment takes over; you analyze and overthink every interaction, which leaves you needing extra reassurance from your partner. Anxious attachment stresses the relationship, makes trust difficult, and causes frequent conflict.
Emotional Regulation & the Window of tolerance
The window of tolerance is a concept I find useful when assessing distress and helping clients understand what’s happening internally. The "window of tolerance" describes the optimal zone of arousal where an individual can function effectively. Within this window, we're able to think clearly, make rational decisions, and engage in healthy interpersonal relationships. The moment your feelings get too overwhelming, you’ve left the window of tolerance and things start to get ugly. This can manifest in various ways, such as heightened anxiety or emotional detachment.
Embracing Vulnerability: The Power of Expressing Needs in Relationships
In the intricate dance of romantic relationships, a common concern that often arises is the fear of appearing needy. It comes up often, in both couples counseling and in relationship therapy for singles. This apprehension can lead us to suppress our authentic desires and needs, inadvertently hindering the depth and intimacy we crave in our partnerships.
Transformative Power of Depression Treatment: How it Reshapes Your Brain for Positivity and Growth
Depression is a complex and challenging mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can manifest in various ways, from persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness to a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. While depression may feel overwhelming, there is hope. With effective treatment and support, individuals can not only alleviate their symptoms but also experience profound changes in their brain that foster resilience and well-being. Let's explore how depression therapist Miami FL reshapes the brain with the treatment, paving the way for a brighter future.
The Importance of Honesty and Openness in Your First Therapy Appointment
Life is a journey filled with challenges. Challenges may sometimes seem to be a hindrance in our daily lives, but if we choose to grow from it and get help, it often turns out to be empowering and healing.
Seeking therapy for the very first time can be anxiety provoking on its own.. To make things easier, Psych Blossom’s therapists put together a guide on why it is important to stay honest in your first session with a Therapist in Miami FL. Smile, breathe and stay true and open to yourself and with your therapist.
Unraveling the Connection: 5 Trauma Responses Linked to ADHD You Might Not Recognize
Living with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) comes with its own set of challenges, from struggles with focus and impulsivity to difficulties with organization and time management. However, what many may not realize is that ADHD can also intersect with experiences of trauma, leading to a unique set of responses that are often misunderstood. Let's explore five trauma responses that may be connected to ADHD, shedding light on this often-overlooked intersection with warmth and understanding.
Embracing Pride: A Guide to Living Proud and Safe During Pride Month
As a mental health therapist in Miami, FL I know how essential it is to find a balance between pride and security. Here's a warm and empowering guide on how to live proud while feeling safe during Pride Month and beyond.
Why Is Gen-Z Particularly Vulnerable to Anxiety?
Gen Z is made up of adults aged 18–26. When you think about the things this generation has been through and the daily pressures they face, it probably isn’t surprising to learn that they’re one of the most anxious generations.
What Type of Therapist Should I See for Anxiety?
Anxiety is a common mental health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. The National Institute of Health estimates that as many as 31% of US adults will experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. It can manifest in various forms, such as panic attacks, phobias, social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc. If you're struggling with anxiety, seeking help from a professional is crucial to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. But with so many types of therapists available, you might be wondering: "What type of therapist should I see for anxiety?" or "How do I find an anxiety therapist near me?" This blog post will guide you through the process and help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Four Types of Life Transitions and the Role of Life Transitions Therapy
Life is a journey filled with ups and downs, twists and turns. These changes, or life transitions, are inevitable parts of our existence. They can be exciting, challenging, or even overwhelming at times. Understanding these transitions can help us navigate them more effectively and utilize life transitions therapy when needed.Life transitions can be broadly categorized into four types: anticipated transitions, unanticipated transitions, non-event transitions, and sleeper transitions. Let's delve deeper into each type to understand their impact on our lives.
Unraveling the Difference: Healthy vs. Unhealthy Guilt
Healthy guilt allows us to admit we’re wrong. It encourages us to be sincere in our apologies and fix things when we can. When you’ve made amends or an appropriate amount of time has passed, you should be able to let go of your guilt and move forward. An appropriate level of guilt is likely to keep you from making the same mistakes.
You should always take responsibility for your actions — even the negative ones. But, unhealthy guilt tends to make you think you should be accountable for things out of your control. Accidents happen. Bad things happen. That doesn’t automatically mean you’re the one to blame. Unfortunately, when you’re dealing with unhealthy guilt, you’re likely to hold onto those feelings and take responsibility, blaming yourself even if what happened was out of your control.
EMDR and Your Brain: How It Reshapes Neural Pathways for Healing
EMDR focuses on bilateral stimulation. Your therapist will guide your eye movements back and forth during your sessions. This simulates what your eyes do naturally during a REM sleep cycle. It’s during these cycles that your brain processes memories and holds onto them. By mimicking that action, you’re able to access memories that may have been pushed down while you remain in a safe, secure environment.
The College Experience of a Trauma Survivor: Navigating Friendships, Academic Performance & Romantic Love
This article was inspired by therapy with college students and it does focus on the impact of trauma on the developmental milestones of early adulthood. Yet, the principles shared here are relevant to many trauma survivors, irrespective of age. The steps she’s taken are essential in any healing journey, no matter when you start. Our Miami therapists are trauma-informed and equipped to facilitate your healing journey, just like I’m doing with this client. Click to continue reading.
Seeking Counseling Services in Miami? Here’s How to prepare for your first therapy appointment.
Ever question what to do before, during, and after therapy sessions to make the best of it? Find the answers here!
Living with Bipolar Disorder: Tips for Daily Management
It’s estimated that 1 in 40 American adults deal with bipolar disorder. A combination of medication and therapy is often the best way to treat the depression that comes with this disorder. But, those things can take time to be effective.
You might be wondering what you can do on your own, every day, to manage your bipolar depression. Symptom management can make a big difference in how you feel. It can reduce the severity of your episodes, and help you feel more in control of your mental well-being and emotions.
Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to manage bipolar depression daily. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t reach out for help and work with a professional. But, taking more control of your symptoms can empower you and help you realize that you’re so much more than your condition.