We now turn to another important section of the book: Feedback versus Criticism. Caldwell explores how our interpretation of the world and others shapes both our reactions and our perceptions. Feedback describes a situation as it is and invites awareness and understanding, whereas criticism often triggers feelings of shame, defensiveness, and withdrawal. We will delve... Continue Reading →
I am not a fan of winter. The coldness is especially harsh this year. My day is set when waking up to unplowed snow when I need to leave for work. Not to mention I dislike the restrictions when bundling up in layers. I start to feel depressed when winter comes along. Now don’t get... Continue Reading →
In a world that often pulls attention in countless directions, mindfulness offers a way to slow down and reconnect with the present. Rather than becoming caught in regrets about the past or worries about the future, mindfulness encourages a state of active awareness by paying attention to thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations as they unfold,... Continue Reading →
The five interventions follow directly after the five intentions mentioned in the previous blog. They require us to pay close attention to unconscious habits or actions we may have. These mindless behaviors can range from biting our nails and playing with our hair to restless leg movements. Because we often do them automatically, we may... Continue Reading →
Anger is a normal human emotion. Everyone feels it at times, perhaps when plans fall apart, when we feel treated unfairly, or when we face ongoing stress. Anger itself is not the problem. In fact, it can serve a useful purpose by signaling that something important needs attention. Trouble arises when anger becomes intense, frequent,... Continue Reading →
What resolutions have you thought about making this new year? The new year is a great time to take stock, reevaluate goals, and take positive action to resolve unsettled concerns or to work on improved wellbeing. It’s also a great time to begin counseling! Whether you’ve benefitted from counseling in the past or are considering... Continue Reading →
In the first blog of this series, we explored how Getting Our Bodies Back by Chrstine Cadlwell brings awareness to our bodies and how incorporating our bodies is essential to our wellbeing. Our bodies carry stories, adaptations, and wisdom shaped by living experience. In the following post, we will explore the Moving Cycle, which is... Continue Reading →
In mental health, the primary focus is often placed on the mind, our thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors. Yet this causes us to overlook the powerful role the body plays in our mental health. Our bodies are constantly communicating with us through sensations, tension, and movement, offering important clues about where emotions may be held or... Continue Reading →
Hello, I am new here at Olive Branch Counseling Associates. I have the privilege to conduct my undergrad internship here and learn from whom I believe are the best counselors in the area. I currently attend Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights as an accelerated senior. If you have not heard, my beloved College is... Continue Reading →
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