Individuals experiencing toxic behavior(s) in a relationship, especially those in relationships with an (un)recognized abusive partner, can experience many of these destructive behaviors. This article (and the books referenced in the article) is not only a thorough introduction to recognizing toxic behaviors in all kinds of relationships, but it offers PRACTICAL responses: 20 Diversion Tactics […]
Anxiety seems to be a common malaise and presents frequently in counseling, and often in a variety of contexts, not just individual therapy & “generalized anxiety disorder“. Someone said to me recently: “Anxiety is culturally induced!” and that statement really resonates. Discussions in a therapy session can range from a) what to do about […]
Attending a Victim’s Rights Ceremony in Hall County recently turned my thoughts to the dynamics of abusive relationships, as well as the tragedy of domestic homicide and the triumph of individuals who escape a hurtful intimate partner or parent. As a culture, we can be tempted to “explain away” bad behavior, when the necessary response […]
Personal trainer, nutritionist, author, and health blogger Jenay Green often writes about the importance of good nutrition (www.tipsonlivinghealthy.com ) and the value of exercise. Here at Dawning Phoenix, we support our psychotherapy clients in the quest for better mental health, including improving the physical body. Exercise and physical activity are strongly supported by research for […]
Everyone wants to know what makes couples happy, what contributes to successful relationships that last a lifetime, or what contributes to the break down, and unfortunately, the break up, of a previously loving partnership. At Dawning Phoenix, we provide couples or partners counseling, brief solution-focused therapy for resolving conflict or improving communication, pre- or post- […]
When considering psychotherapy (or counseling), a person often is at a point of some urgency, or possibly even crisis. Not every therapist is going to be a fit for the problem at hand. Sometimes getting help immediately is more important than looking for “the perfect fit”, but when possible, asking a few key questions can […]
Many areas of our lives are fast-paced; as a result, individuals feel chronically stressed. A body in constant pressure mode breaks down; suddenly a person becomes physically ill, or chronic worry develops into severe anxiety, where your body’s alarm system just won’t turn off. When this happens, a professional counselor can assist someone with learning […]
Depression and anxiety can sometimes, but not always, be experienced as two sides of one coin. One way to describe anxiety is “overworrying” while depression could be briefly described as overburdened or very tired. Frequently, individuals experience both anxiety and depression at the same time or anxiety can create fatigue, mimicking depression. Symptoms of depression […]
As a domestic violence researcher, it is difficult to dismiss concerns about literature and movies that might promote the acceptance of aggression and violence, especially in significant partnerships (i.e. “romance”). Younger individuals or people struggling to find healthy love relationships can be particularly at risk during times of transition or difficulty. This article highlights several […]
Divorce takes a toll on each individual and has an effect on the wider circle of family, friends, coworkers, and even neighbors. It is not only an ending, but an unraveling – of connections, of trust, of habits, of lifestyle. Divorce support groups can be an important part of recovering from the wounding that is […]
Events and rituals help us focus, adjust, adapt, and move forward in our lives. Instead of New Year’s Resolutions (which can be very good things), I suggest goal setting, using every 3 months as benchmarks. Effective goal setting is specific, concrete, and time limited. Set some goals for your year today! At the beginning of […]
In recent years, the annual holiday season, historically called Christmas, has become a political, social, and cultural debate within the United States. Different sides of the argument hotly debate the appropriateness of certain words, symbols, figures, and traditions. Often, when “Merry Christmas” is spoken, it is intended simply as warm wishes arising from cultural habit. […]
Gratitude: As Thanksgiving approaches, we often hear the word “gratitude”. Many of us have a lot for which we are thankful. Sometimes, during historically traditional holidays, people experience sadness and have difficulty with expressing or experiencing gratitude, because holidays bring back memories of times past. Sometimes those are difficult or painful memories and sometimes they […]
October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. This awareness works in combination with breast cancer awareness (also this month), as both are significant issues affecting women. Check out the events in your community and see what you can learn about intimate partner abuse, historically referred to Domestic Violence. Mary Kay Cosmetics & Avon are two […]
Grief is a part of life. This is a hard truth and one that is often difficult to accept. Kubler-Ross outlined 5 stages of grief, which include anger and sadness. Some list 10 stages which include: 1) Shock, 2) Emotion, 3) Depressed and Lonely, 4) Physical Distress, 5) Anxiety or Panic, 6) Guilt, 7) Anger […]
Does it evoke positive emotions, negative feelings, or a mix of contradictory reactions? Family is about attachment; emotional attachment to other people. Family can mean many things. It is the elemental social unit of human beings. Family, in a basic sense, generally begins with the biological connections to relatives from our childhood – namely […]
While any time of year can be difficult for someone feeling suicidal, the coming of spring can be a hidden risk. While many individuals experience renewed energy and a feeling of excited anticipation as springtime approaches, often called “spring fever”, individuals who have felt hopeless may feel just enough energy to act on a desire […]
The term “domestic violence” is a catch-all phrase that covers a multitude of abusive behaviors that occur within a significant relationship setting, usually within family. In this article, we will begin with definitions, including acronyms, specifically those used within the state of Georgia, and close with state policy regarding domestic violence. This article will not […]
Speaking to the Psychology Club of Gainesville State College today about a career in mediation prompted a mental review of the importance of mediation and key points about the benefits of mediation. At its most practical, mediation is an opportunity for parties engaged in conflict to resolve disputes without going to court. This alternative form […]
