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Grief Symptoms, Causes & Types

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Grief Symptoms, Causes & Types

 

If you notice a few grief symptoms, it probably means that you’ve lost someone or something very valuable in your life recently. Grief refers to learning to live with loss. Besides losing someone close to you, losing a house, divorce, and death are all significant life events that also cause grief. 

As much as it’s true that every person experiences sorrow differently, there are certain typical reactions that you may find helpful to identify if you’ve experienced a loss. Patience is crucial when navigating this challenging period, whether you’re grieving over a loved one or providing assistance.

 

What Is Grief?

Regardless of whether a person’s grief comes from the death of a loved one or from receiving a terminal diagnosis, it is a powerful and often overwhelming emotion. You might feel numb and disconnected from daily life as a result of the loss, which will make it challenging for you to carry out your regular tasks.

That said, it’s important to be aware of the fact that grief is completely normal and expected on such occasions. After all, grief is a normal response to loss. Bereavement is a shared and individual experience. The type of loss has an impact on how each person grieves. Common examples of events that cause grief are losing a loved one, ending a significant relationship, losing a job, suffering a theft, or losing mobility due to an accident or an unfortunate event. 

Other grieving examples include the loss of: 

  • A home or community
  • Financial stability
  • A goal
  • Youth
  • Fertility

 

If you’re experiencing grief symptoms, you can expect different stages of mourning. Keep in mind that you shouldn’t and probably won’t be able to impact your grieving process. There are many healthy ways to deal with your grief, such as talking to others about situations that cause considerable emotional pain or the emotions you are experiencing on a daily basis.

A person may mourn for months or even years. In most cases, grief lessens with time as you learn to live without the person or thing you have lost, accept the fact that you are unable to change the past and start making room in your life for healing. 

 

Grief Symptoms

Loss and grief can cause a wide range of symptoms in different people. What they are feeling is neither good nor wrong. However, sometimes we need help to navigate those emotions so we can complete our other responsibilities and eventually end the grieving process once we’re ready. 

When it comes to common grief symptoms, these are mentioned:

  • Void, ache, and/or pain in your stomach
  • Tightness or heaviness in your chest or neck
  • Oversensitivity to sounds
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Numbness
  • Weakness or exhaustion
  • Dry mouth
  • Changes in appetite
  • Sleeping issues 

 

Five Stages of Grief

In her book On Death and Dying, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross outlines the five phases of grieving. Despite its 1969 publication, this is still the most well-recognized source of knowledge about the mourning process. Kubler-Ross conducted interviews with more than 200 terminally ill patients for her book. Through these talks, she was able to pinpoint five typical phases that people go through as they come to terms with their imminent mortality.

These are the five stages we use today to better understand the grieving process: 

  1. Denial: It is difficult for you to accept the loss and you don’t want to admit that this event happened in your life.  
  2. Anger: You might feel that you’re angry at God, at others who failed to save what you’ve lost, at yourself, or even at no one in particular.
  3. Bargaining: To avoid coping with a loss, you can envision coming to an arrangement. You could also feel remorse for certain actions that you believe could have prevented loss.
  4. Depression: Emotional detachment is one of the complicated feelings that are linked to depression.
  5. Acceptance: With time, you will be able to accept the loss and find a way to continue with your daily activities, accepting that the event changed you and that you’re accepting the pain it comes with. 

 

Types of Grief

There are several ways that bereavement can be felt. The various forms of grief illustrate the complexity and variety of grief.

 

Anticipatory Grief

Grieving in anticipation of a loss means starting the grieving process before it happens. For instance, finding out that you or a loved one has a fatal illness may cause you to start mourning. Grief processing in advance might help you be ready to accept the loss when it happens. However, it’s crucial to remember that grief shouldn’t keep you from savoring the limited time you have.

 

Short-term Grief

There are moments when you can get over your grief very fast. This is the situation with a shorter period of grieving. Abbreviated grief may occasionally follow anticipatory grief. Because you’ve already used a lot of emotional energy anticipating the loss, you may grieve it more swiftly. It’s not a sign that you never cared about what you lost if you were just grieving briefly.

 

Delayed Grief

After a loss, you don’t feel the grief-related emotions right away. You might experience them days, weeks, or even months later. Sometimes, your body takes a while to process these feelings because of the shock of the loss. Or perhaps your body can’t grieve until you’ve taken care of the practical issues that come with loss, such as funerals and wills, because you’re too occupied with them.

 

Repressed Grief

Inhibited mourning is the suppression of feelings. Most of us haven’t received any instruction on identifying or handling the complex feelings that might surface throughout the mourning process. Because of this, many people suppress their emotions without realizing it. 

 

Accumulated Grief

When you experience cumulative grief, you process several losses at once. You’re not only grieving the death of a child, for instance. You’re mourning the breakup of a marriage that came after that tragedy. Grieving many losses at once adds unanticipated complexity and difficulty to the process.

 

Collective Grief

Though most of us consider grieving personal, communal sadness often occurs among communities. Significant occurrences like pandemics, natural catastrophes, school shootings, and conflicts cause wide-ranging losses that alter the definition of “normal” living. We mourn the common experiences we have lost as a community while finding it difficult to envision a different future.

 

Final Words

It’s not necessary for you to experience grief on your own. You might rather talk to a therapist in person or online, seek an online support group with members who’ve experienced the same as you, or read books on this topic. Whatever works for you, stick to it. This is your grieving process, and what works for others might not work for you. Just keep in mind that help is always there when you are ready to accept it. 

 

 

About Life Coaching and Therapy

Life Coaching and Therapy (LCAT) is a therapy and coaching practice that transforms our clients lives through our flexible. Multi-technique approach and pleasure-skills training provided by systematically-trained and licensed therapists!

Get to know our founder and owner, Amanda Pasciucco, (a.k.a. The Sex Healer) PhD, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST) that has developed innovative therapy programs and therapy videos that get results.

Our team of compassionate, licensed therapists and certified sex therapists help all clients who visit us for a variety of personal, relationship, intimacy and sex problems.

LCAT provides on-site appointments, as well as video chat and text therapy programs.

Learn more about how LCAT can help improve your life at What We Do. 

Self-Esteem vs Self-Confidence: What’s the Difference?

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Self-Esteem vs Self-Confidence: What’s the Difference?

 

When it comes to self-esteem vs self-confidence, we’re all guilty of sometimes confusing these two terms and thinking they mean exactly the same. However, self-esteem and self-confidence are not synonyms, although they are very similar. 

For you to understand the difference, we will examine these two terms. You will not be confused for long once you understand what self-esteem and confidence are, and it can also help you better understand those around you.

 

What Is Self-Esteem? 

Your self-esteem is your level of self-worth and appreciation. It also includes your life experiences and relationships with other people, shaping and altering your sense of self-worth.

Self-esteem, as the term suggests, is about how we estimate or value ourselves. It’s a concept deeply rooted in our feelings, ideas, and actions. The term ‘estimate’ (aestimare) originates from Latin and means ‘to appraise, value, rate, or estimate.’ Understanding this origin can enhance your knowledge and appreciation of the concept of self-esteem.

Strong self-esteem is a powerful attribute. It liberates individuals from the need for external validation, such as money or prestige. It fosters acceptance of oneself and others, encourages risk tolerance, and opens doors to new experiences. This understanding can inspire and motivate you to nurture your own self-esteem. 

 

What Is Self Confidence? 

The term “self-confidence” describes the assurance we possess in particular areas of our lives. It is our conviction that we can accomplish our objectives and overcome obstacles. Unlike self-esteem, self-confidence is more outwardly focused and frequently easier to develop. 

Since knowledge and experience are the sources of confidence, our confidence level increases with our level of experience. The term “confidence” is derived from the Latin word, which means “to trust.” In other words, one has to have faith in their own abilities and their capacity to interact with others to be self-assured. 

Successful experiences usually result in increased self-confidence, which increases self-confidence in those domains even more. Most people, however, rely more on their self-confidence than on improving their self-esteem to be happy. The issue with this is that, unless we rise to a new challenge, our success is usually fleeting. 

 

Impacts of Low Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence

Low self-confidence or self-esteem are common problems for many people. For some, it just affects certain circumstances, while for others, it can be crippling or limiting.

If you lack these qualities, individual unpleasant or disappointing events might negatively impact your self-esteem or confidence. This might lead to a vicious loop of self-fulfilling prophecies, discouraging you from attempting them because of your pessimistic outlook on the future. Of course, this produces unsatisfactory results.

For example, if you lack confidence in yourself and receive negative feedback from your boss, you may think, “What else can I expect? I am stupid. This experience proves it, so I may as well give up.”

If you feel good about yourself and get negative feedback from your superior, you could ask yourself, “Where did I go wrong? I’ll research it so that I can improve next time.” You don’t feel less of a person despite your disappointment with the poor evaluation.

 

How to Improve Your Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence

Luckily, there are many ways to improve your self-esteem and self-confidence. After all, these two terms have a great impact on all areas of your life, so it’s in your interest to improve them. 

 

Start with Self-acceptance

Regardless of the circumstances, feeling better about yourself and other people is facilitated by increasing your self-acceptance.

We all make mistakes, and accepting them can make your life a lot easier. By engaging in self-acceptance exercises, you can:

  • Acknowledge that making mistakes is a vital part of learning 
  • Consider how you could approach challenges differently or change your approach to get different results.
  • Review your actions and try to change them without self-blame.

 

Learn More about Yourself

Pay attention to the situations or ideas that make you feel more or less confident or good about yourself. Be honest and list all your accomplishments, big and small. Once you are used to celebrating small wins, you will feel more confident and encouraged to tackle bigger projects. Knowing your strengths, weaknesses, and accomplishments helps. 

Consider that you are the only person with you 24/7. As you are beginning to learn more about yourself, focus on your own growth – which is something you are actually in control of. This means considering your goals and the aspects you would like to enhance or modify.

 

Challenge Your Thinking Patterns

When describing oneself to others or to yourself, be mindful of the words you use. We frequently show others more generosity and kindness than we do ourselves.

Acknowledge and confront your inner critic and try to convert them into your friend, not your enemy. After all, our inner critic is trying to protect us from negative experiences, and acknowledging its function allows you to become friends with it.  

Pay attention to the messages that help you respect who you are, and ignore the ones that doubt your worth or capacity. Use affirmations and constructive self-talk to rewire your brain every day, wherever you are.

 

Make Positive Changes in Your Life

To boost your confidence and sense of self-worth, you could decide to make some adjustments in your life. Consider the things you can change to feel better about yourself. For instance, you could wish to change your career, relationships, education, or acquire new skills.

Create a strategy that will entail specific objectives you want to achieve. Also, provide a timeline so you don’t feel stressed about this strategy of positive change. If it feels overwhelming for you, divide the objective into actionable steps and add them to your calendar. That can save you time and energy and keep you accountable at all times. 

 

Final Words

Whether you have low self-esteem or self-confidence, accepting that you’ve got the power to change it is crucial. As people, we’re all different, and we have unique experiences in life that can result in lower self-esteem or self-confidence. However, there are many ways for you to change that and start living a more confident, richer life! 

If you continue to struggle with boosting your self-esteem or self-confidence, consider reaching out to a therapist and working on it with them. Therapists can help you acquire a valuable set of techniques for this area and discover what is causing your low self-esteem or self-confidence. 

 

If you want to start your body journey at home, I invite you to learn more in our at home therapy video.

Body Image Therapy: Learn Positive Body Image

Couples Communication Strategies

 

About Life Coaching and Therapy

Life Coaching and Therapy (LCAT) is a therapy and coaching practice that transforms our clients lives through our flexible. Multi-technique approach and pleasure-skills training provided by systematically-trained and licensed therapists!

Get to know our founder and owner, Amanda Pasciucco, (a.k.a. The Sex Healer) PhD, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST) that has developed innovative therapy programs and therapy videos that get results.

Our team of compassionate, licensed therapists and certified sex therapists help all clients who visit us for a variety of personal, relationship, intimacy and sex problems.

LCAT provides on-site appointments, as well as video chat and text therapy programs.

Learn more about how LCAT can help improve your life at What We Do. 

Can You See Two Therapists at Once?

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Can You See Two Therapists at Once?

 

Are you wondering, ‘Can you see two therapists at once?’ If so, we’ve got some good news for you: You can see as many therapists as you want. However, keep in mind that it will be difficult to achieve progress if you’re talking to more than one therapist and if these therapists aren’t coordinating care with one another. 

On the other hand, you may see a different therapist for your marriage or relationship and a different one for your private life. These kinds of therapies would not conflict with one another because their objectives are different. To gain a better understanding of whether seeing two therapists is a good or bad idea, let us first look at the reasons why someone chooses to see a therapist. 

 

Reasons to Seek a Therapist

Seeking professional help for mental health issues has been stigmatized and characterized as something that “only those with mental disorders need.” This is because healthcare in the United States only covers therapy if you have a diagnosis. 

However, many people, regardless of whether they have a documented mental diagnosis, might benefit from therapy or coaching. If someone chooses to attend therapy, it can significantly improve their overall mental and emotional well-being.

Many people may benefit greatly from effective therapy. Nonetheless, it is crucial for some individuals, particularly those who struggle with mental illnesses like anxiety, depression, addiction, or other disorders. With the help of therapy, you can overcome the many challenges of life and lead a more fulfilling life. It can help you better understand your experiences and how they impact your well-being. Like visiting the dentist or doctor for regular checkups or wellness tests, talking to a therapist can help you maintain good mental health. 

These are the most common reasons why people decide to see a therapist:

  • You have intense feelings of sadness or hopelessness
  • You can’t find a solution or explanation to your challenges and issues
  • You use unhealthy coping mechanisms (alcohol, drugs, porn)
  • You or someone close to you is dealing with a chronic health condition
  • You’re going through a big change in your life
  • You’ve recently lost someone
  • You have family issues
  • You feel the need to talk to someone 

 

Seeing More Therapists

So, when is it recommended to see more than one therapist? If you are looking for a therapist for the first time, it could be helpful to schedule initial sessions with a few different therapists before selecting one. 

Another reason why someone might see two mental health professionals is if they complement each other. For instance, you might see your psychiatrist about the medications you’re taking and your therapist to discuss things that are bringing stress into your life. 

Another possible situation would be visiting one therapist for couples counseling with your spouse and another for individual concerns like anxiety or parenting. However, sometimes, these two therapies will not work well. For instance, you may be addressing sexuality issues with your partner while also beginning therapy to process the experience of a sexual trauma. If these therapists were not coordinating care, your individual work could be impacted if your couple therapist was focusing on strengthening the physical connection. 

 

Downsides of Seeing Two Therapists at Once

Although there are several valid reasons why seeing two therapists at once makes sense, it still has certain downsides that you need to be aware of. 

Some people think they can solve their problems more quickly by seeing multiple therapists for the same problem. If this describes you, know that seeing more than one therapist will not actually expedite the healing process.  

On the other hand, if you’re determined to see two therapists with two different approaches, make sure both therapists are aware of it so they can adjust their interventions for you to benefit from it. 

 

Therapy Benefits

Keep in mind that most people decide to see a therapist because they are aware of the potential benefits it might have for their lives. That said, be aware of the fact that seeing more therapists might limit those benefits and make it difficult for you to experience them. 

 

Improve Communication Skills

You may develop constructive and good communication skills with the help of therapy. You can successfully manage almost every aspect of your life if you have strong communication skills. Therapy may help you develop the skills you need to feel secure when talking with people, regardless of whether you tend to avoid conflict, lose your temper easily, or experience nervousness during direct conversations.

 

Improve Conflict Skills

Therapy may be helpful if you struggle to resolve conflicts of any kind in your life. By working with a mental health professional, you may gain the skills necessary to confidently ask for what you want from relationships and circumstances, create healthy relationship boundaries, and communicate your needs clearly. Anyone may benefit from learning conflict resolution techniques, and the more adept you are at handling it, the more successful you will be in managing many other facets of your life.

 

Increased Self Awareness

A person can get a deeper understanding of themselves through therapy, including their emotional and mental well-being, past experiences, and general behavior. You may learn how your own ideas, feelings, and behaviors could be holding you back from advancing in life and living a better, healthier existence through self-reflection.

 

Develop Coping Skills and Strategies

If you want to take on any of your challenges or make changes in your life, you must have a strategy. Therapy for mental health issues teaches you how to create effective coping mechanisms. Equipped with these adaptive techniques, you can counteract obstacles in your life. You can progress and get over almost anything that attempts to get in your way if you know how to resolve conflicts and challenges constructively and in a peaceful way.

About Life Coaching and Therapy

Life Coaching and Therapy (LCAT) is a therapy and coaching practice that transforms our clients lives through our flexible. Multi-technique approach and pleasure-skills training provided by systematically-trained and licensed therapists!

Get to know our founder and owner, Amanda Pasciucco, (a.k.a. The Sex Healer) PhD, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST) that has developed innovative therapy programs and therapy videos that get results.

Our team of compassionate, licensed therapists and certified sex therapists help all clients who visit us for a variety of personal, relationship, intimacy and sex problems.

LCAT provides on-site appointments, as well as video chat and text therapy programs.

Learn more about how LCAT can help improve your life at What We Do. 

Healing the Wounds Within: The Power of Therapy for Trauma

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Healing the Wounds Within: The Power of Therapy for Trauma

 

Therapy for trauma exists because trauma can leave deep scars on one’s psyche, affecting every aspect of life. Nowadays, therapy is a potent tool for recovering from past trauma and taking back control of one’s life. We will examine the healing power of therapy for trauma.

And provide an overview of the different techniques that can support the healing process.

 

Understanding Trauma

Trauma, whether caused by mistreatment, mishaps, or other upsetting events, frequently leaves a lasting impact on a person’s mental and emotional health. Trauma’s aftereffects can include crippling anxiety, intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, and even physical symptoms. Healing from trauma takes more than just time; it requires deliberate effort and professional guidance to truly break free.

 

The Power of Therapy

Therapy serves as a safe haven for trauma survivors, providing them with the support and tools needed to navigate the complex landscape of recovery. By addressing the root causes of trauma and its associated symptoms, therapy offers individuals the opportunity to rebuild their lives on a foundation of resilience and emotional well-being.

 

  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a widely recognized and effective therapeutic approach for trauma. By exploring the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, CBT empowers individuals to identify and challenge negative beliefs and thought patterns that perpetuate their trauma-related distress. Through this process, individuals can regain control over their emotions and reclaim their lives.

 

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is a specialized therapy that targets traumatic memories and works to reprocess them, freeing the survivor from their lingering emotional impact. By utilizing bilateral stimulation techniques, such as eye movements or tactile taps, EMDR helps individuals process trauma in a way that reduces its intensity and disrupts its negative hold on their lives.

 

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT is particularly effective for individuals who have experienced trauma and struggle with emotional regulation and interpersonal difficulties. This therapy equips individuals with vital skills to cope with intense emotions, enhance mindfulness, and improve interpersonal relationships. Through DBT, trauma survivors can gradually regain control over their emotional responses and develop more fulfilling connections with others.

 

The Journey to Recovery

Starting therapy for trauma is an act of courage and self-care. Therapy is highly individualized, so finding the right therapist and modality is crucial to healing. Incorporating self-care practices, including exercise, meditation. And creative outlets, into the recovery process can serve as a valuable complement to therapy.

 

Conclusion

Trauma does not have to define a person’s life indefinitely. Therapy has emerged as a beacon of hope for trauma survivors, offering a path towards healing, growth, and liberation from the scars of the past. Whether through CBT, EMDR, DBT, or other therapeutic modalities, individuals can reclaim their lives and embrace a brighter future. Take the first step today and embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and transformation.

Remember, healing is possible.

Make an Appointment to Start Healing

 

 

About Life Coaching and Therapy

Life Coaching and Therapy (LCAT) is a therapy and coaching practice that transforms our clients lives through our flexible. Multi-technique approach and pleasure-skills training provided by systematically-trained and licensed therapists!

Get to know our founder and owner, Amanda Pasciucco, (a.k.a. The Sex Healer) PhD, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST) that has developed innovative therapy programs and therapy videos that get results.

Our team of compassionate, licensed therapists and certified sex therapists help all clients who visit us for a variety of personal, relationship, intimacy and sex problems.

LCAT provides on-site appointments, as well as video chat and text therapy programs.

Learn more about how LCAT can help improve your life at What We Do. 

 

Mental Health Text Support and Counseling Services

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Mental Health Text Support and Counseling Services

 

If you are looking for convenient and efficient mental health tools, consider mental health text support. This form of therapy is becoming popular among people of all ages, and it’s proven successful in helping them solve different problems and improve various areas of their lives. 

 

Text Therapy

Text therapy, or texting a therapist, is a rapidly growing trend, particularly among those needing assistance. It’s a simple process: sessions are conducted through messaging platforms like emails, chat messages, online chat rooms, or audio messages sent from your computer or phone. For many, these text-based treatment services offer a more accessible and comfortable option.

It is a communication channel for progressing in weekly sessions gradually and at your speed, not a crisis text line for mental health emergencies. Depending on your chosen platform, you can use features like texting therapy between treatment sessions.

It allows scheduled doctor or psychologist appointments, but it is not live all the time, like Zoom. An increasing number of people are adopting text therapy to address various mental health concerns, ranging from eating disorders to anxiety, thanks to the growth of telehealth through online therapy providers and the majority of cell phone plans that enable unlimited messaging. Texting a therapist seems less exposed than interacting with them in person for many individuals.

 

Benefits of Mental Health Text Support

There are several benefits to text therapy. Each person’s assessment of the significance of these text therapy benefits will differ. 

It’s possible that someone has social anxiety and doesn’t want to discuss their problems over a meal with an unknown person. Some people might not have the time to fit in one additional visit a week due to their hectic work and personal schedules, or they could have young children at home whom they cannot leave alone because they cannot find a babysitter. 

It might feel like pressure when you are in front of a therapist for an in-person session, and you are aware that the timer is running out and that you only have 30 or 60 minutes available for a weekly live appointment. As a result, it might be very challenging to take in the knowledge and genuinely respond to the queries being asked of you. 

Some people are better at communicating in writing than they are in person. People process and react to information more effectively when they put their thoughts in writing and reflect on the therapist’s answers. It can facilitate introspection and help people see things that could have been handled differently when they reflect on their experiences and recollections. Also, you are always welcome to message your therapist. Even though they might not answer immediately, you can still record the words. 

When conversing via texting as opposed to face-to-face therapy or speaking in front of a support group, some people claim to feel less scrutinized. No matter what kind of treatment you receive, your therapist should never judge you. However, the patient may experience judgment since they deal with many challenging feelings, such as guilt and shame. 

 

How to Start with Text Support

Usually, the process starts with you responding to questions that enable the service to match you with a therapist who can provide the level of care you require. Depending on the service you use, you might not be able to choose your own therapist.

After you’ve found a therapist, you may begin exchanging texts outlining your goals for treatment. Most text therapy programs offer unlimited text messaging. Additionally, some provide voice and video chat, although these may come at a somewhat higher price.

At any point, you can text your therapist. You can generally anticipate a response within a day; however, they might not respond right away, particularly if you text them late at night or early in the morning.

Additionally, you can ask for a “live text” session, in which you and your therapist text back and forth in real-time. This enables you to discuss problems whenever they come to mind.

Text therapy provides anonymity, much like in-person therapy.

The app could gather data, so be sure to read the terms of service and privacy regulations. However, your conversation with your therapist is private and will not divulge any personal information.

 

Cost of Mental Health Text Support

One of the reasons why many people choose text therapy over other types is that it’s more affordable. Depending on the platform you choose and the other services you utilize, text therapy might cost different amounts. However, the cost is typically lower than it would be for in-person counseling.

For instance, BetterHelp charges between $60 and $90 a week. Depending on the package you select, Talkspace might cost anywhere from $70 to $110 each week. Some places, like our group, charge based on which therapist and how many minutes. 

 

In Final Words

Getting the right kind of help is crucial if you’re struggling. Numerous people benefit from text therapy, and it could also be beneficial to you. However, you might not see much of a shift if you have trouble connecting with your therapist. It could be time to look into alternative strategies, including video counseling or in-person therapy, if you are not seeing any progress with text therapy. 

Keep in mind that every person is different and what works for your friend might not work for you. That is why it’s important to keep in mind that you can always try different types of therapy and switch to a more convenient one for you if the chosen one doesn’t work. Schedule a text session with one of our staff members today. 

 

 

About Life Coaching and Therapy

Life Coaching and Therapy (LCAT) is a therapy and coaching practice that transforms our clients lives through our flexible. Multi-technique approach and pleasure-skills training provided by systematically-trained and licensed therapists!

Get to know our founder and owner, Amanda Pasciucco, (a.k.a. The Sex Healer) PhD, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST) that has developed innovative therapy programs and therapy videos that get results.

Our team of compassionate, licensed therapists and certified sex therapists help all clients who visit us for a variety of personal, relationship, intimacy and sex problems.

LCAT provides on-site appointments, as well as video chat and text therapy programs.

Learn more about how LCAT can help improve your life at What We Do. 

 

Help with Menopause Crazy Behavior

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Help with Menopause Crazy Behavior

 

If you’re a woman, you’ve probably heard someone talking about menopause crazy behavior, and if you’re in your 30s or 40s, you might feel confused about its meaning. We wanted to do some more research on how menopause affects women before deciding what is crazy and what isn’t. 

There is little discussion of menopause, which is unavoidable for aging cis women. Even if you ask young women, most of them will not know what to expect when that time comes. Read on if you are a woman curious about menopause or has just entered it and wants to know if your symptoms are common.

What Is Menopause? 

A woman enters menopause twelve months following her last menstrual cycle. The menopausal transition, also known as perimenopause, is the period before that happens when women may have hot flashes, irregular monthly cycles, or other symptoms.

The onset of menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. This period of time can range from 7-14 years. The length of time may vary depending on lifestyle choices, including smoking, age at onset, and race/ethnicity. The ovaries produce the hormones progesterone and estrogen, which the body produces in varying amounts during perimenopause.

Every woman experiences the menopausal transition differently and in different ways. Women may acquire weight more quickly, and their bodies use energy differently and in various ways in fat cells. Your physical function, body composition, and structure, as well as your heart or bones, may all alter.

Stages of Menopause

Menopause is the natural end to menstruation. There are three stages of menopause that you’ll need to be aware of to be able to tell them apart.

Perimenopause

Your ovaries progressively start to generate less estrogen eight to ten years before menopause, which is when perimenopause starts. It generally begins in your 40s. The final year or two of perimenopause is when estrogen begins to decline. Many women may be experiencing menopausal symptoms at this point. However, you can still become pregnant during this period and still have menstrual cycles.

Menopause

When you reach menopause, your menstrual cycles stop. Your ovaries have finished generating the majority of their estrogen and are no longer releasing eggs at this point. When you have missed your monthly cycle for 12 months in a row, a medical professional will diagnose you with menopause.

Postmenopause

This is the term used to describe the period following a year without a period. Menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, may improve during this phase. Nonetheless, a decade or more after the menopause transition, some women still have menopausal symptoms. People in the postmenopausal period are more susceptible to several health issues, including osteoporosis and heart disease, due to a decreased level of estrogen in their bodies.

Menopause Symptoms

If you start to have some or all of the following symptoms, you could be entering menopause:

  • Hot flashes (a sudden sense of warmth that spreads across your body)
  • Chills and/or flashes of cold
  • Dryness of the vaginal walls 
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Urinary urgency
  • Sleep problems
  • Emotional changes 
  • Chapped lips, eyes, or skin
  • Soreness in the breasts
  • Abnormally heavy, light, or irregular periods

Some women might also experience:

  • Heart palpitations
  • Headaches
  • Pain in the muscles and joints
  • Sex desire changes
  • Concentration issues
  • Memory loss
  • Weight gain
  • Thinning or loss of hair

Changes in your hormone levels bring on these symptoms. While some people experience minor menopausal symptoms, others may experience severe symptoms. Not every person going through menopause will experience the same symptoms. 

Contact a healthcare provider that specializes in menopause. There are different boards depending on what country you live in. If you are in the United States, check them out. 

Why Do I Feel Like This? 

In menopause and perimenopause, varying emotions are common. Changing progesterone and estrogen levels cause many changes in your life like mood swings, insomnia, and hot flashes.

Your ability to sleep may suffer, libido problems may negatively impact your sexual life, and vaginal dryness may make things seem unpleasant. You could think you’re insane because of all these changes, yet we’re here to reassure you that you’re not. Hormonal changes happen! You don’t have to suffer and you can reach out to a longevity specialist. 

Hormone fluctuations occur throughout perimenopause and diminish during menopause, which can lead to abrupt and inexplicable mood swings or seemingly insane behavior. You could think you’re going crazy if you experience increased levels of impatience, anxiety, or melancholy, yet there’s no reason to freak out.

Menopause is a natural aspect of aging for all women, and it brings with it a host of mental and emotional changes that can cause disruptions to day-to-day activities. You should be aware that you are not experiencing menopausal symptoms alone, since around 75% of women encounter emotional issues during this time.

The Bottom Line

Your progesterone and estrogen levels vary during perimenopause and drop sharply during menopause. Due to low hormone levels affecting mood-regulating neurotransmitters, mood swings are common.

Hot flashes, which exacerbate tiredness and irritation and make it hard to fall asleep, are another effect of a fall in estrogen. Without enough sleep, as we all know, everything feels worse, and our emotional stamina is at its lowest.

While most women do not experience severe depression or anxiety after menopause, it is normal for them to have modest mood changes, irritability, and a lack of energy. Additionally, women who have had anxiety or depression in the past are more likely to encounter severe emotional symptoms throughout menopause.

If you’re struggling with your menopause symptoms or have any questions related to them, reach out to your doctor. If you’re noticing mood swings and are not able to function due to emotional bursts, you should consider reaching out to a therapist, as there might be other issues you need to address and work on. 

 

BLISS: Proven Methods for Improving the Female Orgasm

 

About Life Coaching and Therapy

Life Coaching and Therapy (LCAT) is a therapy and coaching practice that transforms our clients lives through our flexible. Multi-technique approach and pleasure-skills training provided by systematically-trained and licensed therapists!

Get to know our founder and owner, Amanda Pasciucco, (a.k.a. The Sex Healer) PhD, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST) that has developed innovative therapy programs and therapy videos that get results.

Our team of compassionate, licensed therapists and certified sex therapists help all clients who visit us for a variety of personal, relationship, intimacy and sex problems.

LCAT provides on-site appointments, as well as video chat and text therapy programs.

Learn more about how LCAT can help improve your life at What We Do. 

When to Seek Help for Anxiety & How to Do It

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When to Seek Help for Anxiety & How to Do It 

 

If you’ve been wondering when to seek help for anxiety, it probably means you’ve been experiencing certain symptoms for a while and are considering reaching out for support. As with any mental health challenge, professional guidance can be crucial in managing daily difficulties and uncertainties.

 

What Is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a complex reaction to perceived or actual threats, manifesting in behavioral, physiological, and cognitive changes. The brain releases adrenaline in response to these threats, triggering the fight-or-flight response. This can occur in social situations or during significant life events. Sometimes, anxiety symptoms can persist long after the initial stressor, leading to physical symptoms like nausea or high blood pressure. Understanding when to seek help for anxiety is crucial in distinguishing between normal worry and an anxiety disorder.

 

Treatment Options

If you’re unsure when to seek help for anxiety, consider whether your symptoms are affecting your daily life. Consulting with a primary care physician is a good first step. They can identify any potential underlying medical conditions contributing to your anxiety. For more severe cases, a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychotherapist, can provide specialized care. These professionals are skilled in diagnosing anxiety and offering effective treatment options.

 

Psychotherapy

In psychotherapy, a therapist works with you to reduce anxiety symptoms. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective, teaching methods to manage symptoms and gradually face anxiety-inducing situations. Knowing when to seek help for anxiety can guide you in finding a therapist who specializes in CBT or other relevant therapies.

 

Medications

Medications can be useful depending on the type of anxiety disorder and any co-occurring conditions. Discussing the benefits and potential side effects with your doctor will help determine if this is an appropriate option for you.

 

Relaxation Techniques

Stress can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation can help manage stress and anxiety. Recognizing when to seek help for anxiety can involve exploring these techniques to see if they alleviate your symptoms.

 

How to Find Help for Anxiety

Finding the right therapist is a crucial step in managing anxiety. Research potential therapists, consider your therapy goals, and assess your budget and insurance coverage. Personal recommendations can also be valuable, but ensure the therapist’s approach aligns with your specific needs.

By understanding when to seek help for anxiety and exploring the available options, you can take proactive steps toward managing your mental health and improving your quality of life.

 

Quick Ways to Reduce Anxiety and Stress

quick ways to reduce anxiety and stress

 

 

 

About Life Coaching and Therapy

Life Coaching and Therapy (LCAT) is a therapy and coaching practice that transforms our clients lives through our flexible. Multi-technique approach and pleasure-skills training provided by systematically-trained and licensed therapists!

Get to know our founder and owner, Amanda Pasciucco, (a.k.a. The Sex Healer) PhD, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST) that has developed innovative therapy programs and therapy videos that get results.

Our team of compassionate, licensed therapists and certified sex therapists help all clients who visit us for a variety of personal, relationship, intimacy and sex problems.

LCAT provides on-site appointments, as well as video chat and text therapy programs.

Learn more about how LCAT can help improve your life at What We Do. 

 

Anxiety Counselor: What Is It & How Do They Help?

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Anxiety Counselor: What Is It & How Do They Help?

 

If you’re struggling with anxiety, a general therapist might not be the best choice for you, and you should consider seeing someone who specializes as an anxiety counselor. After all, having anxiety is very different from having depression or experiencing difficulties in certain areas, so having a therapist who is skilled in treating anxiety can be very helpful.

If you or someone close to you is struggling with anxiety. Make sure you read this article as we share what you can expect from seeing an anxiety counselor and how they can help you feel better. 

 

What Is Anxiety?

It’s normal to feel anxious in life occasionally. On the other hand, people with anxiety disorders frequently experience intense, overwhelming, and persistent concern and panic regarding routine events. Panic attacks, which are abrupt, intense emotions of fear or terror that peak in a matter of minutes, are a common feature of anxiety disorders.

These uncontrollably intense, out-of-proportion-to-the-real-danger emotions cause disruptions to everyday tasks and can last for extended periods. You could steer clear of certain areas or circumstances to stop these emotions. The onset of symptoms can occur in infancy or adolescence and persist throughout maturity.

Generalized anxiety disorder, separation anxiety disorder, particular phobias, and social anxiety disorder (sometimes known as social phobia) are a few types of anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders can coexist in you. Anxiety can occasionally be the outcome of a disease that requires medical attention.

 

Therapy for Anxiety

You don’t have to live with anxiety and dread, whether you’re experiencing panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, constant worries, or an overwhelming phobia. Therapy is frequently the best course of action for many anxiety disorders, and treatment can be helpful. This is because, in contrast to anxiety medications, anxiety treatment addresses the root cause of the issue as well as its symptoms. 

Finding the root reasons for your anxieties and phobias, learning how to unwind, adopting a more positive outlook on life, and improving your coping and problem-solving abilities are all possible with the support of therapy. Therapy teaches you how to use these techniques and provides you with the means to overcome anxiety.

Since anxiety disorders vary widely, treatment should be customized to your unique symptoms and diagnosis. For example, you will receive a different course of therapy if you have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) than if you are experiencing anxiety attacks. The kind and degree of your anxiety problem will also determine how long therapy takes. Nonetheless, a lot of anxiety treatments are only temporary.

Although there are many other kinds of treatment used to address anxiety, exposure therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are the most popular methods. Any anxiety treatment can be used on its own or in conjunction with other forms of treatment. Individual or group therapy for those with comparable anxiety disorders might be used for anxiety treatment. However, the objective remains the same: to reduce your anxiety, relax, and face your anxieties.

 

How Can an Anxiety Counselor Help You?

Notwithstanding their licensure or number of clinical hours, not all counselors provide the same services or possess the same experience. If two counselors work exclusively with anxiety. For example, one may provide cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) while the other would solely do exposure treatment. Therefore, it might be helpful to explore treatment modalities, specialties, and strategies before choosing a counselor. 

Finding mental health practitioners who work in these fields after researching different kinds you might be interested in for your specific symptoms could be a useful place to start. You may also get in touch with an anxiety-focused counselor to find out which method they think will work best for your circumstances.

Experience does not always correlate with a field’s licensing and training requirements. A counselor with years of expertise in treating anxiety may be able to help various clients by drawing on what they have observed to be effective in the past. However, because they have recently finished school, newer providers may also be conversant with more sophisticated treatments as they often supervise more seasoned specialists. 

 

I’ve Found My Anxiety Counselor, Now What?

Some mental health providers may limit their client interactions to in-person sessions. On the other hand, many counselors now only or mostly provide text, phone, or video sessions. These virtual formats could be more pleasant for those who suffer from anxiety and might also be more practical for people who reside in remote places or have difficulty finding a suitable provider nearby. 

To help you decide, you may evaluate online and in-person counselors’ availability and testimonials. 

Prepare a short list of questions to ask possible therapists to learn more about them and see if they are a good fit for you. A lot of providers will offer a short email consultation before the first session to answer any questions you may have. Here are some examples of questions you could ask: 

  • Are you working with clients who struggle with anxiety?
  • Do you have experience treating symptoms similar to mine? 
  • What do the people you work with do to control their anxiety?

 

Conclusion

It’s a common misconception that treatment will make you feel better immediately. Sometimes, this might be the case, yet more often, therapy requires time. However, you frequently have worsening symptoms before improving ones. Interestingly, feeling worse is often a sign of getting better, which makes sense when you think about it.

When you decide to go to therapy, it is usually because you have not been able to deal with your anxiety on your own. As you go through therapy, you will learn more about what is making you anxious. The process will not always feel pleasant, yet in the end, it will be helpful.

 

Quick Ways to Reduce Anxiety and Stress

quick ways to reduce anxiety and stress

 

About Life Coaching and Therapy

Life Coaching and Therapy (LCAT) is a therapy and coaching practice that transforms our clients lives through our flexible. Multi-technique approach and pleasure-skills training provided by systematically-trained and licensed therapists!

Get to know our founder and owner, Amanda Pasciucco, (a.k.a. The Sex Healer) PhD, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST) that has developed innovative therapy programs and therapy videos that get results.

Our team of compassionate, licensed therapists and certified sex therapists help all clients who visit us for a variety of personal, relationship, intimacy and sex problems.

LCAT provides on-site appointments, as well as video chat and text therapy programs.

Learn more about how LCAT can help improve your life at What We Do. 

Work Stress Therapy: A Path to Managing Work Stress More Efficiently 

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Work Stress Therapy: A Path to Managing Work Stress More Efficiently 

 

We spend so many hours working that it is not surprising that more people are interested in work-stress therapy. Feeling good about your work environment can be challenging when you have a lot of responsibilities and obstacles. 

Mental health professionals say that people who work in stressful places or who get stressed out a lot at work have chronic stress. Having a lot of stress in your life can have long-term effects on your physical and mental health. 

Discover methods that can stop some stressful events from happening and how work stress therapy can help you handle the stress you experience at work.

 

What Causes Stress at Work? 

Stress at work is affecting workers’ health and happiness, as well as the efficiency of businesses around the world. Work-related stress happens when someone has to deal with too many demands at work.

Various situations can result from work stress. A person may feel pressured by their work when their demands—such as long hours or heavy workloads—beyond their capacity. Unexpected changes, disagreements with coworkers or superiors, and threats to job security, such as potential layoffs, can also cause stress at work.

When talking about symptoms of work stress, these are the most common ones: 

  • constant or frequent fatigue
  • muscular tension
  • headaches
  • heart palpitations
  • sleeping difficulties
  • gastrointestinal issues 
  • anxiety and negative thoughts
  • irritability

 

What is Work-Stress Therapy?

Seeking professional help from a therapist is a must when someone is stress level gets so high that it is hurting their mental health. Too often, people do not care about treatment. After all, how can a therapist make their office feel different? That is not what the treatment is meant to do, though. Therapists help people deal with stress in a healthy way, which is good for their mental health.

There are different types of therapy that can help you manage your work stress, depending on the therapist you choose, your needs, and your specific situation.

 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) aims to treat a range of mental and behavioral health issues. Counselors using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) assist patients in seeing the strong links that exist between their ideas, emotions, and actions. The first step in creating techniques to manage negative thoughts and emotions, lessen the stress they produce, and curtail any resulting harmful actions is to recognize what negative thoughts and feelings are.

 

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

Many mental health professionals advise using DBT, a type of stress reduction, in addition to more conventional therapies like CBT. While DBT doesn’t “cure” stress, it does improve coping mechanisms like emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness. People with long-term mood disorders and eating disorders are among those who use this method to get better. DBT therapists help clients with work stress therapy by incorporating mindfulness into their daily lives, which makes a big difference in the quality of their lives. 

Although these two approaches are the most common in treating work stress, other therapy approaches that can be beneficial are psychoanalytic therapy, EMDR, or sometimes medication. 

 

Other Ways to Cope with Work Stress

Besides therapy, there are other things you can try to help alleviate stress and feel more relaxed at work. Knowing how much impact work has on our private lives as well makes it even more necessary to approach stress the right way.

It is important to keep track of your medical visits because stress has been associated with certain medical conditions. Making an appointment with your healthcare provider will assist in ruling out any potential medical issues that could be causing your symptoms. Additionally, your doctor can help you create a healthier diet and recommend avoiding coffee as a way to manage stress.

Try mindfulness exercises like meditation through classes or applications. Studies have indicated that these techniques, many of which are straightforward enough for you to include in your workday, might help lessen the anxiety symptoms that may accompany work-related stress.

Discussing your job stress with your boss might be beneficial, especially if you have the help of a therapist, to see if you two can come up with any solutions. Speak with an HR specialist as well, if there is one at your place of employment. You can involve HR if you think that harassment or discrimination at work is the cause of your stress. You can also ask union resources for assistance if you’re a member of one.

Consider adding rewarding activities to your everyday life and reducing your body’s stress reaction by engaging in the visual, performing, and creative arts. Maintaining interests outside of work may also be a helpful reminder that life is more than just your job.

Lastly, consider spending more time in nature. Going for long walks in nature and exploring new parks, mountains, or woods can help you feel more relaxed, grounded, and connected with your surroundings. The sun, fresh air, and movement are three things that can help you improve your mood and make you feel relaxed almost immediately. If your work is stressful, aim to walk every day for at least 20 minutes. 

 

Conclusion

If you believe you are experiencing stress at work, you should get adequate help. It’s easy to believe that the emotion will pass or that everyone experiences it in the same way, yet ignoring it and not addressing it can only make you feel worse. Work should normally make you feel happy, especially when you spend so much time there. You ought to be content and pleased with your accomplishments.

Everyone will inevitably experience unpleasant days where they feel worn out and uninspired. However, if you carry these feelings with you every day, they will eventually get to you. Long-term stress may have a negative impact on your life, both psychologically and physically. 

Seeking a good therapist and prioritizing your mental health are crucial to managing stress. The sooner you start working on it, the sooner you will feel better. Don’t forget that by taking care of yourself, you become a better partner, mother, daughter, and friend, as you’ll have more energy and capacity for everyone around you. 

 

About Life Coaching and Therapy

Life Coaching and Therapy (LCAT) is a therapy and coaching practice that transforms our clients lives through our flexible. Multi-technique approach and pleasure-skills training provided by systematically-trained and licensed therapists!

Get to know our founder and owner, Amanda Pasciucco, (a.k.a. The Sex Healer) PhD, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST) that has developed innovative therapy programs and therapy videos that get results.

Our team of compassionate, licensed therapists and certified sex therapists help all clients who visit us for a variety of personal, relationship, intimacy and sex problems.

LCAT provides on-site appointments, as well as video chat and text therapy programs.

Learn more about how LCAT can help improve your life at What We Do. 

How To Convince Someone To Go To Therapy With You

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How To Convince Someone To Go To Therapy With You

 

If you’re in a relationship or a marriage, you have experienced the good and the bad and might be wondering how to convince someone to go to therapy with you. No relationship is perfect, and it requires a lot of communication to understand each other’s needs and wants, so talking to someone who might guide you both to become the couple you want to be could be the solution you need.

If your partner or spouse doesn’t feel as strongly about the benefits of therapy as you do, give them some time. In the meantime, do your best to share everything they will get from sessions and work with you on strengthening your union.

 

The Power of Couples Therapy

Marital therapy, couples counseling, and couples therapy are other names for couples therapy. It’s a form of family therapy that can help examine why two individuals disagree. This kind of relationship therapy also emphasizes communication skill improvement for a romantic relationship to recover and flourish. Marital counseling or couples therapy may have numerous advantages when two people are committed to it. It may play a crucial role in establishing a partnership based on trust, respect, and concern for one another.

The advantages of relationship therapy can vary depending on the pair seeking assistance. The greater the level of commitment both you and your partner are prepared to make to your relationship, the more likely it is to succeed.

Having someone you both trust is essential when looking for a competent couples therapist. After hearing what you both say, your therapist may provide frank, fair, and impartial comments. Hearing what someone else says about our relationship gives us a fresh perspective. That impartial third person can hear all sides and provide you with insightful comments and suggestions on different areas of your relationship or marriage. 

 

How to Convince Your Partner/Spouse to Go to Therapy with You

If you’re certain that you want to try therapy, yet your partner doesn’t agree, be patient. There are certain things you can do to help your partner understand how therapy can make your relationship and your individual lives better. 

 

  • Ask Them Why

Before judging or encouraging your partner to try couples therapy with you, ask them for their reasons. Why don’t they like therapy? Are they afraid of something? What do they think might happen? Understanding why your partner doesn’t consider couples therapy a good idea might help you understand each other better. Once you know their reasons, it will be much easier to know your options.

 

  • Share Your Reasons

Oftentimes, your partner might assume that by going to therapy, you’re expressing your unhappiness about the relationship. Explain to them the real reasons why you think therapy would benefit your relationship. For instance, you might want to feel closer to them, work on setting boundaries that would work for both of you, or look to solve a recurring argument in a relationship.

 

  • Connect with a Couple That Goes to Therapy

Do you have a friend who went to or is going to couples therapy with their partner? If they are willing to share that experience, this might show your partner that it’s not at all as they imagined it. Also, if they hear from someone else about the numerous benefits of couples therapy, it might be more effective. 

 

  • Talk about Boundaries

When trying a new thing, especially as a couple, it’s important to establish boundaries. Your partner might feel insecure about certain topics or areas of their life, so respecting their needs is essential before going into therapy. Allow them to gain trust in your therapist first. They might need more time than you to open up about certain things, yet once they feel secure enough, they will feel more open to the idea of sharing more vulnerable experiences or thoughts.

 

  • Test the Idea

Explain to your partner or spouse that you can try different therapists before you commit to the one you both like. Not only that, you can get them to be more interested in couples therapy if you tell them that this doesn’t have to be a commitment at all. Suggest trying one session and seeing how they feel about it. With a good therapist, they will probably want to give it another shot before you start going to therapy regularly. 

 

  • Find the Common Objective

Besides sharing your reasons why you want to try couples or marriage therapy, also try to focus on the common goal. For instance, if you’re engaged, you can tell your partner that you want to be even more intimate with them as you’re approaching marriage. Or, you might want to start working on some issues before you go on a longer vacation together. Framing the idea of therapy as a tool to enjoy something that matters to you both might improve the chances of your partner actually going to therapy with you. 

 

  • Know When to Quit

If your partner is certain that they don’t want to go to therapy even after trying all these suggestions from our list, respect it. Maybe it’s not the right time for them to do therapy. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t open up this subject with them in a few months. Be mindful of how your partner feels, and instead of forcing a solution, try to be more supportive. 

 

Conclusion

There is no doubt that any relationship can benefit from therapy, even the one that ended. However, we are not all aware of the benefits that couples or marriage therapy can bring to our relationships. If your partner or spouse doesn’t want to go to therapy, talk to them about it. Ask them about their reasons and think about ways you can make them feel more comfortable with that suggestion. Also, if you’re not in therapy and are only considering couples therapy, think about finding a therapist for yourself and working on improving your mental and emotional health. In the end, there are so many things we can give to ourselves without expecting to receive them from someone else!

 

 

 

About Life Coaching and Therapy

Life Coaching and Therapy (LCAT) is a therapy and coaching practice that transforms our clients lives through our flexible. Multi-technique approach and pleasure-skills training provided by systematically-trained and licensed therapists!

Get to know our founder and owner, Amanda Pasciucco, (a.k.a. The Sex Healer) PhD, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST) that has developed innovative therapy programs and therapy videos that get results.

Our team of compassionate, licensed therapists and certified sex therapists help all clients who visit us for a variety of personal, relationship, intimacy and sex problems.

LCAT provides on-site appointments, as well as video chat and text therapy programs.

Learn more about how LCAT can help improve your life at What We Do. 

Musicians Mental Health: Are Musicians Getting the Support They Need?

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Musicians Mental Health: Are Musicians Getting the Support They Need?

 

As a society, we rarely talk about musicians’ mental health. A career in the music industry, regardless of your status, comes with a lot of challenges that other professionals don’t experience. Constantly hustling for the next project, trying to establish yourself on the market, and creating an audience are just a few of these challenges.

These challenges, unique to the music industry, can take a significant toll on mental health. The constant stress and uncertainty about the future can make it difficult to remain unaffected by the world around you. It’s a situation that demands attention and action. That is why there is a growing need to discuss the mental health of musicians, provide strategies to improve their quality of life and encourage them to seek help when necessary.

 

What Impacts a Musician’s Mental Health?

Musicians have higher rates of mental illness than the rest of the population. The music business is finally taking action to help musicians’ mental health. However, there are still a lot of conversations that need to be held in order to determine how to help these professionals, as their lifestyles often make it difficult to attend therapy like other professionals.

One of the main factors contributing to musicians’ mental discomfort has been identified as money concerns, along with the erratic nature of their profession. Being the one that your entire family or your partners depend on can make things even worse. Due to that, it’s not uncommon for musicians to feel guilty for choosing to pursue music instead of obtaining a “proper job.” 

Another problem is irregular work schedules and late evenings, which affect friendships, relationships, and family life. To make ends meet, many musicians work several jobs, frequently without breaks, which results in physical and emotional burnout.

Performance anxiety in musicians is another issue that can arise unexpectedly and impact even the most certain performers. Discrimination, bullying, and compulsion can also cause severe mental discomfort, especially in people who are already mentally vulnerable. Women, in particular, brought attention to the pervasive harm that sexual harassment and sexism do in the music business. Even decades later, the music industry still doesn’t provide the same level of support for both female and male musicians. 

 

What Type of Support Do Musicians Need?

Musicians should have access to different support resources that can help them deal with the common challenges of this industry. Many studies have shown that the majority of musicians have experienced anxiety, depression, burnout, band dynamics, stage fright, work-life balance, competitive environments, and so on.  

Without a doubt, these problems can affect their mental health if not treated on time. As musicians are constantly working to gain more success, they might need to ignore their mental health and their need to achieve their goals and please everyone around them. That is why musicians, as well as people in their professional and private lives, need to be reminded of how crucial their mental health is and that dealing with their issues on time allows them to be even more successful. 

When it comes to support and help that can be of value for musicians, there are different forms and resources to consider, depending on their personality, needs, preferences, and schedule.

 

Therapy

As a musician, you probably won’t be able to attend in-person therapy every time. However, many therapists are now having online sessions, so you can easily talk to them while on the road or even in a different time zone. Having a therapist can help you better deal with the challenges in your musical career and also help you balance your professional and personal lives. Therapists help their clients by teaching them helpful strategies for dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression. 

 

Support Groups

Sometimes, it helps to remind yourself that you’re not the only one going through something. Contrary to what it seems from the outside, the world of musicians is often lonely. Even during concerts and tours, you’re constantly going back to your hotel room and struggling to lower the adrenaline you need to perform. Joining a support group might help you find people similar to you who can help you go through these situations. Also, you will be able to exchange your experiences and learn from each other. 

 

Books and Podcasts on Mental Health 

Besides going to therapy or joining a support group for musicians, you can also read books or listen to podcasts on mental health in your free time. Such resources can offer great comfort and ideas on how to approach the challenges in your music career. For instance, you might learn techniques to calm yourself before going on stage or how to approach conflict in your band.

 

Journaling

If you’re a musician, chances are you’re great at expressing yourself— one way or another. Why not write your feelings and thoughts in a journal and take them with you everywhere you go? This way, you can be sure that everything you’re expressing is in a safe place, and you can always revisit some of those moments to see how much you’ve grown over time. 

 

Find What Works for You

All of the above-mentioned ways can help you feel better. However, we can’t stress enough how important it is for musicians to get support from mental health professionals. Ask for recommendations from colleagues you trust or search online to find the right therapist who is skilled to talk to professionals like yourself. Don’t forget that investing in yourself is the best thing you can do for your career and personal life. 

Your mental health impacts every aspect of your life, and it’s up to you whether you’ll allow it to impact it positively or negatively. Whichever issue or challenge you’re facing at the moment, a good therapist can help you overcome it. Besides that, you will notice that your life is improving as you start learning from the therapy process. While searching for the right mental health professional, do your best to eat healthy, sleep enough hours, and try to relax during the day as much as possible, as these are the three pillars of a happy, balanced life.

 

https://www.instagram.com/rockrootstherapist?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

About Life Coaching and Therapy

Life Coaching and Therapy (LCAT) is a therapy and coaching practice that transforms our clients lives through our flexible. Multi-technique approach and pleasure-skills training provided by systematically-trained and licensed therapists!

Get to know our founder and owner, Amanda Pasciucco, (a.k.a. The Sex Healer) PhD, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST) that has developed innovative therapy programs and therapy videos that get results.

Our team of compassionate, licensed therapists and certified sex therapists help all clients who visit us for a variety of personal, relationship, intimacy and sex problems.

LCAT provides on-site appointments, as well as video chat and text therapy programs.

Learn more about how LCAT can help improve your life at What We Do. 

Effective Strategies for Preventing Burnout in the Workplace

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Effective Strategies for Preventing Burnout in the Workplace

 

In today’s work environment, preventing burnout in the workplace has become increasingly crucial. The rise in employee burnout across various industries, particularly in the tech sector, highlights the need for effective strategies to manage and prevent this issue. Understanding and implementing these strategies can significantly enhance employee well-being and productivity.

 

What Is Employee Burnout?

Employee burnout refers to a state of physical or emotional exhaustion, often accompanied by feelings of emptiness and helplessness. While not classified as a medical condition, burnout can lead to or exacerbate mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. Recognizing the symptoms of burnout, such as frequent headaches, fatigue, and lack of motivation, is essential for early intervention and recovery.

 

Strategies for Preventing Burnout in the Workplace

  1. Seek Employee Feedback

Regularly soliciting feedback from employees is a key strategy for preventing burnout in the workplace. Engaging with team members helps identify potential issues before they escalate into burnout. Addressing concerns promptly and ensuring employees feel heard can prevent dissatisfaction and reduce the risk of burnout.

  1. Be Mindful of Workload

Managing employee workload is crucial for preventing burnout. Overworked employees are at higher risk of burnout, so it’s important to ensure that workloads are manageable and align with each employee’s capacity. Monitoring performance and being proactive in adjusting workloads can help maintain a healthy work environment.

  1. Provide Flexible Scheduling

Flexible scheduling is another effective approach to preventing burnout in the workplace. Allowing employees to design their own work schedules can enhance job satisfaction and reduce stress. Flexibility helps employees balance their personal and professional lives, leading to lower burnout rates.

  1. Implement a Good PTO Policy

A robust paid time off (PTO) policy is essential for preventing burnout. Encouraging employees to take their allotted PTO helps them recharge and return to work with renewed energy. Cultivating a workplace culture that values and supports time off can significantly impact employee well-being.

 

In Conclusion

Preventing burnout in the workplace is essential for maintaining a productive and healthy work environment. By implementing strategies such as seeking employee feedback, managing workloads, offering flexible scheduling, and promoting a good PTO policy, companies can create a supportive atmosphere that reduces burnout and fosters overall employee satisfaction.

 

 

About Life Coaching and Therapy

Life Coaching and Therapy (LCAT) is a therapy and coaching practice that transforms our clients lives through our flexible. Multi-technique approach and pleasure-skills training provided by systematically-trained and licensed therapists!

Get to know our founder and owner, Amanda Pasciucco, (a.k.a. The Sex Healer) PhD, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST) that has developed innovative therapy programs and therapy videos that get results.

Our team of compassionate, licensed therapists and certified sex therapists help all clients who visit us for a variety of personal, relationship, intimacy and sex problems.

LCAT provides on-site appointments, as well as video chat and text therapy programs.

Learn more about how LCAT can help improve your life at What We Do. 

Losing a Parent – How to Cope

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Losing a Parent – How to Cope

 

We all know that losing a parent is a significant and challenging event that can be difficult to cope with. It is like loss of a piece of ourselves. Upon losing a parent, we often find ourselves unsure of how to navigate the world in their absence. Even if their passing was expected, it will still cause emotional distress and even trauma. 

Coping with the loss of a parent is not an easy thing to do. There will be changes in how you feel and what you need, and you may feel completely lost. All of that is more common than you think. 

 

Each Feeling Is Valid

Instead of fighting your sadness, you can learn to cope with it by understanding how it works. As a normal and natural reaction, some people try to bury the painful emotions that accompany loss. In an attempt to keep their strength up, some people may feel compelled to turn to their jobs, alcohol, or other distractions. However, until you allow yourself to feel your emotions, this strategy will not help you manage and process them.

Emotional outbursts or emotional isolation from other people can result from suppressing your emotions. When you give yourself permission to mourn or face your pain, your body starts to heal. While distracting yourself and using other coping mechanisms to get through the day are acceptable, doing so repeatedly could be harmful to your health. The act of validating one’s emotions enables the development of coping mechanisms and resilience in the face of bereavement. 

 

Ways to Cope with the Loss of Your Parent

Self-care, coping strategies, and mindfulness practices all contribute to the process of accepting one’s loss and the accompanying emotions. There is no definitive approach to mourning, no specific period during which one can expect to feel better, and no sequential stages or checklist items to complete. It may be difficult to accept this by itself.

 

  • Build a Support System

You might want to use a friend, family member, group therapy, or a grief counselor as part of your support system. According to research, talking to a close friend or family member who has also lost a parent may help. Support and guidance from loved ones can be beneficial for young people and middle-aged adults who have lost a parent. Choose people who will support and listen to you, because talking about your feelings with them might help you regulate them.

 

  • Write a Letter to Your Parent

It is possible that you had something you wanted to talk about or work out with your parent before they died. Many are upset that a parent did not share family recipes, missed a graduation, wedding, or other important event, or had unresolved disagreements or talks.

Write a letter to your deceased parent. Focus on what you regret not telling them, what you want to thank them for, and what you want to continue as their legacy. This letter is to digest and release anything you have held onto. As you write, remember that the letter will not be sent. It may help you feel better about your relationship with your deceased parent, but it will not erase the pain. If you are able, burn the letter in a safe way after writing it. 

 

  • Take Care of Yourself

Grief typically impacts daily life. Some find work comforting, but do not return before you are ready. Some immerse themselves in their work, taking on more than they can to avoid climbing the uncomfortable wall.

Finding balance is very important. An occasional distraction is fine, as long as you set aside time to deal with your feelings. You might also want to ask people who will support you to join you on things like walks, workouts, trips to your favorite restaurant, and so on.

 

  • Go down Memory Lane

Protecting the memory of a parent who has died might be scary, but if you talk about these memories often, you will make sure they do not fade. As a parent, you may tell your kids about your grandparents or continue family traditions you loved.

Though it might hurt at first, remembering may make you feel better as the stories come back. As you might expect, not everyone has good memories of their parents. Without talking about or processing your parent’s death, it may be harder to recover. It might be easier to handle if you open up to someone you trust.

 

  • Talk To a Therapist

After your parent’s death, consider seeing a therapist to teach you how to cope with the loss of a parent. Therapists often specialize in bereavement.

As you process the complex emotions of loss, a therapist can help. Grief counselors can help you adjust to life without a parent and teach you coping skills.

Be Kind to Yourself

Grieving a parent can leave you confused, hurt, and lost, regardless of your relationship with them. Remember that everyone mourns differently, and that is healthy. Slow down and be kind to yourself as you grieve.

 

 

About Life Coaching and Therapy

Life Coaching and Therapy (LCAT) is a therapy and coaching practice that transforms our clients lives through our flexible. Multi-technique approach and pleasure-skills training provided by systematically-trained and licensed therapists!

Get to know our founder and owner, Amanda Pasciucco, (a.k.a. The Sex Healer) PhD, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST) that has developed innovative therapy programs and therapy videos that get results.

Our team of compassionate, licensed therapists and certified sex therapists help all clients who visit us for a variety of personal, relationship, intimacy and sex problems.

LCAT provides on-site appointments, as well as video chat and text therapy programs.

Learn more about how LCAT can help improve your life at What We Do. 

Communication Conflict Examples & How To Resolve Them

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Communication Conflict Examples & How To Resolve Them

 

There are many examples of communication conflicts you will encounter in your life. Although we all communicate daily, that doesn’t make us experts. Many factors impact how we communicate with others, leading to conflicts. Whether you’re trying to communicate with your boss, romantic partner, friend, or family relative, conflicts will occur, and that is completely fine.

What you need to learn is how to solve these communication conflicts so they don’t affect your relationships. In this article, we’ll share some common communication conflict examples and suggestions for resolving them. After all, conflict is an opportunity to improve communication and feel closer to the other person, not something that should end the relationship.

 

What Is Conflict?

Conflict can be described as expressing disagreement through words or actions with another person. You and the other person have different wishes, needs, and objectives that interfere with each other, preventing harmonious communication. For conflict to exist, there needs to be a stated struggle.

However, conflict is not a simple disagreement. People who are interdependent, relying on each other in some capacity, get into arguments. When one’s actions impact another’s well-being, dependency occurs. Relationships with high levels of dependency, such as those between close friends, family members, and coworkers, are more likely to experience conflicts.

 

Elements of Conflict

Interpersonal conflict does not exist when two individuals are not dependent on one another, regardless of disagreement. Conflict arises when their goals differ. The lack of resources, such as money, time, power, and space, is a common factor in conflicts. Genuine conflict also arises when one party’s actions affect the other’s pursuit of their objectives.

 

Examples of Communication Conflict

When discussing conflict, it’s essential to remember that it can be direct and indirect. A direct conflict involves verbalizing perspectives and struggling to find common ground. An indirect conflict is less apparent, where hurtful behavior replaces open arguments.

 

Conflicts Over Power

Conflicts over power occur in work environments and romantic relationships when one person believes the other is behaving negatively. For instance, if your boss wants you to stay late for a new project, and you disagree, it becomes a conflict over power if they disregard your feelings.

 

Conflicts in Romantic Relationships

You might argue with your romantic partner over power if they make all the important decisions without your input. Expectations in relationships can also lead to conflicts. For example, if your partner doesn’t prioritize spending time with you, it might cause frustration.

 

Family Conflicts

Family conflicts are natural due to different personalities and generations maintaining close relationships. Unhealed childhood traumas often cause adult family conflicts. Open communication is challenging with multiple family members, increasing the likelihood of conflicts.

 

Resolving Conflicts

Speak directly with the person you have issues with, assuming no danger of physical harm. Direct discussions are more successful than complaining to others or resorting to indirect actions. Plan and choose a peaceful setting for the conversation.

Avoid hostility, as it hinders the other person’s ability to listen and understand your concerns. Be open-minded, listen actively, and focus on mutual understanding. Honest, kind communication is essential for resolving conflicts effectively.

By learning to navigate communication conflicts, you can improve your relationships and foster healthier interactions.

 

About Life Coaching and Therapy

Life Coaching and Therapy (LCAT) is a therapy and coaching practice that transforms our clients lives through our flexible. Multi-technique approach and pleasure-skills training provided by systematically-trained and licensed therapists!

Get to know our founder and owner, Amanda Pasciucco, (a.k.a. The Sex Healer) PhD, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST) that has developed innovative therapy programs and therapy videos that get results.

Our team of compassionate, licensed therapists and certified sex therapists help all clients who visit us for a variety of personal, relationship, intimacy and sex problems.

LCAT provides on-site appointments, as well as video chat and text therapy programs.

Learn more about how LCAT can help improve your life at What We Do. 

 

Harmonizing Minds: How Music Helps Mental Health

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Harmonizing Minds: How Music Helps Mental Health

 

If you’ve ever listened to music and noticed you feel better as soon as your favorite song comes on. You might have wondered how music helps mental health. Whether it’s listening to music that reminds you of certain times or certain somebody, to cheer you up. Or to allow you to connect with your other emotions. Music is a powerful tool that can have a great impact on how you feel.

According to recent studies, listening to music influences our cultural and personal identities and affects how we feel. Let’s take a look at how music can improve your mental health.

 

Why Music Is Important to Us

If one language could be used worldwide, it would be music. It has the power to take us elsewhere, enable us to relive memorable events. Improve our health and happiness, and enhance our sense of community and family ties.

It’s well established that music enhances mental health and life satisfaction. Young children may communicate through sound and movement through music, providing a creative and healthy avenue for self-expression for people of all ages.

Our relationship with music is particularly personal since we are complex human beings from a wide range of cultures with diverse life experiences and physical and mental health demands. Our connection with music may be a highly delicate, fragile, and frequently complex dance that changes every minute depending on our feelings, tastes, social context, and past experiences. 

There are ways in which listening to music can immediately and visibly improve our well-being:

  • Using a calming playlist to facilitate the transition to sleep,
  • Using lively dance music to inspire yourself to work out or feel better in general,
  • Facilitating self-expression through singing, 
  • Connecting with others during a live performance.

 

Music & Healing

Musical interactions between babies and their caretakers may develop a baby’s attention span and social awareness from birth. Musical interactions also provide social benefits for toddlers and preschoolers; however, their area of influence also extends to other children and instructors.

As children grow into teenagers and adults, they engage with others in a community of listeners and players through music. Music aids our understanding of people’s thoughts and emotions. Out of all the groups in our culture, students who play in the school band or orchestra have the lowest rates of alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drug use, both in the present and over the long term. 

Listening to music influences our cultural and personal identities and affects our feelings. Serious mental health and drug use issues can also be treated with music therapy, as it can help people take a deeper look into their emotions and understand what caused them to feel a certain way. 

Apart from its therapeutic qualities, music can enhance the message of diversity and inclusivity by exposing individuals to different cultures and giving voice to underrepresented groups, thereby improving our comprehension and admiration of many societies.

 

Ways Music Can Help Mental Health

Music may be a powerful tool of transformation, even though there isn’t one miraculous song, optimal intervention, or ideal genre to make life’s difficult things easier.

 

  • Trauma Healing

It has been demonstrated that music therapy may offer a secure and encouraging setting for trauma healing and resilience development, as well as lowering anxiety and enhancing depressed people’s functioning. Utilizing music to achieve health and educational objectives, such as enhancing mental well-being, lowering stress levels, and easing pain, is known as music therapy. It is an evidence-based therapeutic intervention. 

Hospitals and schools are two places where you will be able to find therapy in the form of music. Participating in music-making activities, including creating songs, drumming circles, or group singing, has helped emotional release, encouraged introspection, and fostered community.

 

  • Social Connection

Additionally, music can unite people and foster social support by tearing down barriers and bridging gaps. There is growing evidence that music can foster social connectivity, improve prosocial conduct, and foster emotional competency. Communities may use choirs, music education programs, and music programs’ intrinsic power to unite people and promote a feeling of belonging. 

These events have the potential to provide welcoming environments where individuals from all backgrounds may congregate, work together. And form bonds around common musical interests. These encounters foster community, fight loneliness, and offer a network of support that can enhance general well-being.

 

  • Empowerment

There is a long history of using music for social change and activism. Through tackling subjects like gender bias, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial inequality, music may effectively serve as a vehicle for advancing inclusivity and social justice. People may communicate their particular experiences, challenges, and victories via music, connecting with others who have similar experiences. Listening to various musical genres and performers may help listeners overcome preconceptions, widen their viewpoints, and develop empathy—especially when they dance together.

Historically, underrepresented voices have been given a platform by genres like hip-hop, reggae, jazz, blues, rhythm & blues. And folk to reclaim their stories and question social conventions. Songs that are socially conscious have been shown to have a significant impact on causes like feminism. LGBTQ+ rights, and civil rights, where they have mobilized communities and brought about change. Engaging in activism as a musician may help their audience feel more connected to causes and inspired to become involved, as well as reach out to new supporters.

 

Conclusion 

According to certain studies, listening to music may be enjoyable and may even improve your health. In addition to its potential to bring happiness and pleasure, music has several other psychological advantages. In addition to energizing the body and calming the mind, music can even improve pain management.

The idea that music has the power to affect your emotions, ideas. And actions probably does not come as a huge surprise. Ever been moved by a live performance or pumped up by your favorite fast-paced rock anthem? You may understand how music can affect moods and motivate action. Whatever your mood, music will likely be your best friend. Whenever you need it, you can easily access it and enjoy its numerous benefits!

 

 

About Life Coaching and Therapy

Life Coaching and Therapy (LCAT) is a therapy and coaching practice that transforms our clients lives through our flexible. Multi-technique approach and pleasure-skills training provided by systematically-trained and licensed therapists!

Get to know our founder and owner, Amanda Pasciucco, (a.k.a. The Sex Healer) PhD, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST) that has developed innovative therapy programs and therapy videos that get results.

Our team of compassionate, licensed therapists and certified sex therapists help all clients who visit us for a variety of personal, relationship, intimacy and sex problems.

LCAT provides on-site appointments, as well as video chat and text therapy programs.

Learn more about how LCAT can help improve your life at What We Do.