The holiday season is often associated with joyous gatherings of family and friends, but there may be times when circumstances lead us to spend the holidays alone. While it may initially seem daunting or even a bit lonely, embracing solitude during this time can offer a unique opportunity for self-reflection, relaxation, and personal growth. Through... Continue Reading →
It was December of 2020. The first Christmas we would all experience during the Covid-19 pandemic was approaching. My best friend of twenty-five years, Kelly, had moved in with me earlier in the year. She had been teaching art in Quito, Ecuador for the past 3 years, but was forced to make a final decision... Continue Reading →
The Olive Branch Community would like to encourage its members to appreciate just how much gratitude rocks! With the holiday season upon us and a new year approaching, it is the perfect time of year to focus on how much every one of us has to be grateful for. This year, we have witnessed from... Continue Reading →
Let me set the scene. You are out with your friends for happy hour on a Friday night. Everyone has worked hard and is eager to relax and let loose. One of your friends, on top of having a rough work week, has also recently experienced some personal stress. Perhaps they went through a breakup... Continue Reading →
Have you ever come across the term "IOP" and wondered what it means? I was in the same boat until recently. IOP, or Intensive Outpatient Program, is a type of treatment option for individuals struggling with mental health or substance abuse issues. Intrigued by this concept, I embarked on a journey to understand what an... Continue Reading →
I enjoy my beer. However, as I am approaching my mid-thirties, my body has started to let me know it does not share my enthusiasm. I usually must pop a Pepcid AC prior to the event. And heaven forbid I have more than two drinks. If I do, I will surely feel bloated, tired, and... Continue Reading →
Breaking up with a partner can be an incredibly challenging and emotionally draining experience. As someone who has personally gone through the process of letting go of an ex, I understand the rollercoaster of emotions that accompany it. For this reason, I wanted to share my journey and offer some practical tips on how to... Continue Reading →
Recently, I completed a grad class on the topic of trauma counseling and crisis intervention. What I have learned is only the tip of the iceberg in providing trauma informed care. However, everything that I have learned has been so impactful on how I interact with and conceptualize all my clients, not only those that... Continue Reading →
Dating can be both exhilarating and challenging for anyone, but as a person with a disability, it adds an extra layer of complexity. As someone who has experience in working with teens on the spectrum, I have taught and witnessed the beauty of dating and finding the person meant for you. In this blog, I... Continue Reading →
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