Fighting Healthy: Embracing Conflict in Christian Relationships
Conflict is an inevitable part of any relationship, including those built on Christian values. While disagreements can be uncomfortable, they also offer opportunities for growth, deeper understanding, and strengthened bonds. The key lies in learning how to "fight healthy"—engaging in conflict in a way that is respectful, constructive, and rooted in love.
Emotional Recovery After Hurricanes Helene and Milton: My Journey and Strategies for Healing
The aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton was a difficult time, both physically and emotionally. Like many others, I went a week without power, facing the discomforts that come with it. But even more challenging was witnessing friends lose their homes, cars, and peace. The financial insecurity that came from being unable to work during that week weighed heavily on me, and one afternoon, I found myself crying in my office, overwhelmed by the demands of life in the middle of this recovery.
New Year, New Habits
The new year brings with it the promise of new opportunity and invites us to set our intention towards growth. However, the classic resolution paradigm can be problematic for our sense of self. If we are only motivated by achieved outcomes, we internalize a sense of failure when we fall short of those desired outcomes. And if we are being honest with ourselves, how many of those new year’s resolutions actually materialize? Having goals is a good and healthy way to start the year, but when are are outcome driven, we miss out on celebrating the growth we experience by working hard and creating a lifestyle around prioritizing something that is good for us. As people of faith, we know that God is at work in the struggles of our lives to produce spiritual fruit. If we are only focused on measurable outcomes and weigh our sense of accomplishment against those declared numbers or goals, we miss God’s work in the struggle towards growth.
Lights and Loss: A Guide to Grieving Through the Holidays
Have you recently experienced loss and are now wondering how to get through the holiday season? Grief during the holidays can cast a long and challenging shadow. As a mental health counselor, I understand that the festive cheer around us may not reflect the internal struggles many individuals face. The pressure to be joyful can intensify feelings of loss and longing. In this guide, we explore a roadmap through the complex terrain of grief during the holidays, offering insights and strategies to navigate this emotional journey.
Unwrapping Grief: Understanding Grief’s Impact on the Holidays
Have you ever wondered why grief seems to cast a unique shadow during the holiday season? This article unwraps the complexities of grief, offering insights into the intricate dance between grief and the holiday spirit.
The Practice of Thanksgiving: Real Talk about Gratitude and Mental Health with a Christian Therapist
The Thanksgiving feast ushers in the holiday season, reminding us that this special time of year has arrived! These months are marked by both intense consumption and, hopefully, thoughtful contemplation. Favorite meals are enjoyed, black Friday deals are purchased, programs are planned, miles are traveled and somewhere in the midst of all of that, Thanksgiving reminds us to search for reasons to be grateful. For many, this is a welcome exercise, but for others, gratitude can feel elusive. So, why is gratitude so important, and how can we prioritize it, regardless of our circumstances?
Beyond Conflict: 10 Surprising Benefits of Christian Couples Counseling
Relationships are the cornerstone of our emotional well-being, yet even the most loving partnerships encounter obstacles. Whether you're newlyweds navigating the complexities of married life or a long-term couple facing unexpected challenges, couples therapy can provide you and your partner with the right tools and support you need to thrive!
How to Prioritize your Mental Health During the Holidays
If you have entered a Target in the past few weeks, you are aware that the holidays have arrived! The season of snowflakes and stress is here! As a parent to young children, I am acutely aware that the demands on me during this time of year are exceptionally high. There are gifts to purchase, pageants to practice for, parties to attend, programs to support, and opportunities to volunteer! In the midst of our demanding holiday schedule, we also want to make meaningful memories and celebrate the birth of our Savior in a tangible way. It really can feel like a lot of pressure to touch all of the bases and steward every opportunity well. For many, this season can also be an emotional hot bed as we navigate more time with extended family and balance everyone’s expectations. Here are some tips to help set the tone for a peaceful holiday season: