My WordPress Blog
Body-focused repetitive behavior (BFRB) disorders involve compulsive behaviors that go far beyond occasional fidgeting. Two of the most common BFRBs are: Dermatillomania – Repeated skin picking that causes sores, scabs, or scarring Trichotillomania – Compulsive hair pulling from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other areas These conditions are often misunderstood; it’s not merely a habit […]
Body-focused repetitive behavior (BFRB) disorders involve compulsive behaviors that go far beyond occasional fidgeting. Two of the most common BFRBs are:
Dermatillomania – Repeated skin picking that causes sores, scabs, or scarring
Trichotillomania – Compulsive hair pulling from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other areas
These conditions are often misunderstood; it’s not merely a habit or attention-seeking behavior. These actions are driven by anxiety, stress, boredom, or an urge to self-soothe. Over time, they can lead to emotional distress, shame, and even physical harm. These behaviors are real mental health conditions, and they can be treated.
Signs You May Be Dealing with a BFRB
The signs of a BFRB are usually clear:
Inability to stop picking or pulling despite repeated attempts
Noticeable hair loss, skin damage, or infections
Feelings of relief followed by guilt or embarrassment
Avoiding social situations due to visible effects
Rituals around specific times, places, or triggers
Unfortunately, because these behaviors can be private or misunderstood, many people struggle silently for years.
How Therapy Breaks the Cycle
Therapists who specialize in BFRBs use evidence-based techniques to help you gain control and reduce harm. Treatment options include:
Habit Reversal Training (HRT) – Learning to recognize triggers and replace behaviors
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Reshaping thought patterns that drive compulsions
Supportive coaching – Building routines and accountability
Medication – Anxiety, depression, and/or OCD medications can sometimes help
Mindfulness and distress tolerance – Managing emotional discomfort without BFRB behaviors
If you struggle with dermatillomania, trichotillomania, or another body-focused behavior, know that help is available. Connect with us today to start working with a therapist who understands BFRBs and can guide you toward lasting change!
Mental Health Tips for Autumn: Caring for Yourself as the Seasons Change Autumn can be a beautiful time of year. Cooler temperatures, colorful leaves, cozy evenings, and seasonal traditions can make the change of season feel refreshing. But for some people, autumn can also bring changes in mood, energy, motivation, and daily routines. As the […]
Autumn can be a beautiful time of year. Cooler temperatures, colorful leaves, cozy evenings, and seasonal traditions can make the change of season feel refreshing. But for some people, autumn can also bring changes in mood, energy, motivation, and daily routines.
As the days become shorter and the weather gets cooler, it’s worth paying a little extra attention to your mental well-being. Here are some simple ways to take care of yourself this autumn.
1. Get Some Daylight
With shorter days, it can be harder to get enough natural light. Try spending some time outside during daylight hours, even if it’s just a short walk around the neighborhood.
Opening your curtains or blinds in the morning and sitting near a bright window during the day can also help make your environment feel brighter.
2. Keep Moving
Exercise doesn’t have to mean an intense workout. Walking, stretching, cycling, dancing, or doing a short workout at home can all be ways to stay active.
Autumn is also a great opportunity to enjoy seasonal activities such as walking through a park, hiking, or exploring local fall scenery.
3. Maintain a Routine
Seasonal changes can disrupt your usual schedule. Keeping consistent times for waking up, eating meals, working, relaxing, and going to bed can provide a sense of stability.
A simple routine can make everyday responsibilities feel more manageable, especially when motivation is low.
4. Stay Connected
As the weather gets colder, it’s tempting to spend more time alone. While quiet time can be valuable, staying connected with friends, family, coworkers, or community groups can also support your emotional well-being.
If you can’t meet someone in person, try a phone call, video chat, or simple text message to stay in touch.
5. Make Your Space Cozy
Your surroundings can influence how you feel. Autumn is a great time to make your home feel comfortable and inviting.
Try adding a warm blanket, playing relaxing music, enjoying a favorite book, or creating a comfortable space where you can unwind at the end of the day.
6. Make Time for Things You Enjoy
Don’t let your schedule become completely focused on work and responsibilities. Make room for activities that bring you pleasure or help you relax.
Cooking a seasonal meal, watching a favorite movie, visiting a local pumpkin patch, doing crafts, reading, or simply enjoying a cup of tea can provide small moments of enjoyment.
7. Pay Attention to Changes in Your Mood
It’s normal to have occasional difficult days, but persistent changes in mood, sleep, energy, motivation, or interest in activities are worth paying attention to.
If you notice that you’re struggling for an extended period or that your symptoms are interfering with everyday life, consider talking with a healthcare professional or mental health professional. You don’t have to wait until things become overwhelming before asking for support.
8. Be Kind to Yourself
There can be pressure to make every season productive, exciting, or picture-perfect. Remember that it’s okay to slow down.
Some days may be more difficult than others. Give yourself permission to rest, adjust your expectations, and take things one day at a time.
Embrace Autumn at Your Own Pace
Autumn doesn’t have to look the same for everyone. For some people, it may be a season filled with social activities and outdoor adventures. For others, it may be a quieter period that requires more intentional self-care.
The most important thing is to notice what your mind and body need and make space for those needs. Small habits—getting daylight, staying active, connecting with others, maintaining a routine, and making time for things you enjoy—can help support your mental well-being throughout the season.
And if autumn brings significant or persistent changes in your mood, remember that reaching out for professional support is a sign of taking care of yourself.
Be well,
Dr. Marsh
Pamela Marsh , Psy.D., is a fully licensed clinical psychologist in Huntington Woods , Michigan, with over 25 years of experience. She specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. She can be reached at 248-860-2024 or pmarsh@marshpsychologygroup.com
Vicarious trauma, also called secondary trauma, is a type of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that occurs when people absorb the emotional weight of others’ distress. First responders, therapists, healthcare workers, and caregivers are especially vulnerable, but anyone consistently exposed to others’ suffering can be affected. As with other forms of PTSD, understanding the root of […]
Vicarious trauma, also called secondary trauma, is a type of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that occurs when people absorb the emotional weight of others’ distress. First responders, therapists, healthcare workers, and caregivers are especially vulnerable, but anyone consistently exposed to others’ suffering can be affected. As with other forms of PTSD, understanding the root of the issue and getting appropriate help is critical.
Symptoms of vicarious trauma mirror those of other forms of PTSD, such as intrusive thoughts, heightened anxiety, irritability, difficulty sleeping, or emotional numbness. Over time, these symptoms start to affect both personal and professional life.
Empathy is essential for those in a position of helping others, but continuous exposure to trauma can overwhelm emotional boundaries. Without an adequate strategy for dealing with these experiences, the brain and body can respond as though the trauma is personal.
Trauma therapy is a powerful tool for addressing vicarious trauma. Simply recognizing it as a real condition can address any feelings of shame or weakness. Practices like mindfulness, grounding exercises, and cognitive behavioral techniques can help. Additionally, it’s important to have a strong support system and prioritize self-care throughout your career.
Vicarious trauma is a serious concern, but recovery is possible thanks to trauma-informed mental health professionals who provide specialized therapy for caregivers and first responders. Are you in need of some extra support? Reach out today to learn how a trauma therapist from our team can help you!
Watching a loved one change due to dementia is heartbreaking. Seeing the rest of the family struggling to hold it together makes it even worse. Whether you’re a direct caregiver or a small part of a larger support system, your mental health matters too. We’re proud to be a source of support for senior citizens, […]
Watching a loved one change due to dementia is heartbreaking. Seeing the rest of the family struggling to hold it together makes it even worse. Whether you’re a direct caregiver or a small part of a larger support system, your mental health matters too. We’re proud to be a source of support for senior citizens, caregivers, and related individuals, providing therapy for senior citizens and their family members during dark times. Don’t hesitate to lean on our team as a judgment-free space to vent and seek guidance.
Dementia doesn’t only affect the person experiencing memory loss—it impacts the entire family unit. That’s why therapy for senior citizens and family therapy can both play an essential role in navigating this journey. You may be dealing with one or more of these:
Role reversal between children and parents
Communication breakdowns and increased tension
Guilt, helplessness, or caregiver burnout
Grieving the loss of who the person once was
Conflict between family members about care decisions
These challenges are valid and deserve committed space. Family therapy offers tools to improve communication, set boundaries, and navigate the emotional toll of dementia as a team. For senior citizens with early-stage dementia, therapy can provide a safe place to process fears and maintain a sense of dignity. Support groups and counseling can also help caregivers manage stress, reduce isolation, and find meaning in the caregiving experience.
If dementia has affected your family, therapy can be a lifeline. We’re here for you! Get in touch today to connect with a compassionate therapist who can help you and your family cope together. Sessions are available in person and by telehealth for your convenience.
COVID changed a lot of things, and not much for the better. But one area we’ve made improvements in is making reliable mental health care more accessible. Virtual therapy sessions allow clients to connect with licensed professionals from home, reducing barriers like travel time, scheduling conflicts, or a lack of local providers. This convenience increases […]
COVID changed a lot of things, and not much for the better. But one area we’ve made improvements in is making reliable mental health care more accessible. Virtual therapy sessions allow clients to connect with licensed professionals from home, reducing barriers like travel time, scheduling conflicts, or a lack of local providers. This convenience increases the likelihood of regular attendance and staying committed to treatment. If you’ve had issues with that in the past, it may be time to give telehealth therapy a try!
Telehealth therapy has revolutionized the field. It offers the same level of privacy and professionalism as in-person sessions, as therapists will use secure platforms to protect confidentiality. In addition, the rise of telehealth has made it easier for people to:
Receive consistent care in rural areas or when struggling with mobility challenges
Fit therapy into their schedules without needing to commute or arrange childcare
Open up to a new therapist, since they’re in a familiar environment
Virtual therapy is versatile, with individual counseling, couples therapy, or even group sessions coordinated online. Though some situations may still benefit from in-person support, telehealth has proven highly effective for conditions like anxiety, depression, and stress management. Overall, it’s a flexible option that suits most modern lifestyles while maintaining a high standard of care.
If you’ve let your mental health fall to the wayside because of a lack of time or access, telehealth therapy may be the solution. Book a virtual session today to experience the benefits of professional support from the comfort of your home!
Bipolar disorder is a complex mood disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Many have heard the term (after all, some of you are living with it!), but did you know that there are two different types? Understanding the distinction between Bipolar I and Bipolar II is essential for proper diagnosis and bipolar therapy treatment, […]
Bipolar disorder is a complex mood disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Many have heard the term (after all, some of you are living with it!), but did you know that there are two different types? Understanding the distinction between Bipolar I and Bipolar II is essential for proper diagnosis and bipolar therapy treatment, but it can also be helpful to know which you or your loved one has for your own knowledge.
Bipolar I is characterized by manic episodes lasting at least seven days or severe enough to require hospitalization. Mania usually presents as an elevated mood, taking risky behaviors, a decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, and inflated self-esteem or unflappable confidence. Depressive episodes are common but not required for diagnosis.
Bipolar II, the more common form of bipolar disorder, involves hypomania—less intense than full mania—paired with major depressive episodes. While hypomania may not disrupt daily life to the same extent, the depressive phases can be debilitating.
While mood stabilizers, psychotherapy, and lifestyle management are the recommended treatment for both, Bipolar I vs. Bipolar II requires a slightly different approach. Close medical monitoring is especially important for Bipolar I due to the severity of manic episodes. Bipolar II generally needs lower doses of medication to be effective, and bipolar therapy has a stronger focus on the depressive episodes vs. controlling mania.
If you suspect either kind of bipolar disorder, trust your care to us. Our mental health providers are well-versed in mood disorders and committed to providing a safe, supportive space for you to get to know yourself better. Give us a call today to get started!
Despite growing awareness, many men still face stigma when it comes to seeking therapy. Cultural messages often suggest that men should “tough it out,” suppress their emotions, or solve problems alone. But emotional resilience isn’t about ignoring struggles; it’s about facing them with courage. Specialized therapy for men offers a nuanced space to explore thoughts […]
Despite growing awareness, many men still face stigma when it comes to seeking therapy. Cultural messages often suggest that men should “tough it out,” suppress their emotions, or solve problems alone. But emotional resilience isn’t about ignoring struggles; it’s about facing them with courage. Specialized therapy for men offers a nuanced space to explore thoughts and feelings without judgment and develop tools for real growth.
Men experience a wide range of emotional and psychological concerns, but they’re often underreported or misidentified. Some common men’s issues addressed in therapy include:
Career stress and identity confusion
Difficulty expressing emotions
Relationship or communication challenges
Substance use and anger issues
Depression, anxiety, or trauma-related symptoms
These challenges may present as withdrawal, irritability, or physical complaints, making them easy to overlook or dismiss.
Effective therapy for men recognizes that one size doesn’t fit all, but many men benefit from a goal-oriented, action-based approach. They may be seeking strategies to tackle relationship issues or stress in the workplace. They may simply want a judgment-free space to safely process anger, vulnerability, or past trauma. Whether you’re facing a specific issue or simply feeling “off,” therapy with a men’s issues therapist can help you reconnect with your values, improve emotional regulation, and build healthier relationships.
There’s nothing unmanly about wanting to feel better, communicate more clearly, or live more fully. Contact us today to connect with a men’s issues therapist who will hear you out and help you walk a path that honors both your mental health and your masculinity.
Talk therapy—also known as psychotherapy—is more than just conversation. It’s a structured, evidence-based process where licensed therapists use psychological techniques to help individuals understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. For decades, talk therapy has been shown to effectively treat a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship challenges. But why does […]
Talk therapy—also known as psychotherapy—is more than just conversation. It’s a structured, evidence-based process where licensed therapists use psychological techniques to help individuals understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. For decades, talk therapy has been shown to effectively treat a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship challenges. But why does it work? The answer lies in both brain science and human connection.
Take a moment to imagine the setting. Your therapist greets you in the waiting room and invites you to follow. As they lead you into their office, you’re struck by how homey it feels. It’s a small, comfortable space, decorated with care, where you can speak freely. That tightness in your chest eases. This is just the start! In your sessions, you’ll go through:
Neuroplasticity – Talking about your experiences in therapy helps rewire neural pathways, allowing new patterns of thought and emotion to form.
Cognitive restructuring – Therapists help clients identify distorted thinking and replace it with more balanced beliefs.
Emotional processing – Verbalizing emotions helps regulate the nervous system and makes painful experiences feel less overwhelming.
Skill-building – Therapy provides tools for communication, mindfulness, boundary-setting, and coping with stress.
This combination of insight and practical strategies in a private, judgment-free setting makes talk therapy a powerful resource for change. When you’re done, you’ll understand why you feel the way you do and what to do about it. Those are lifelong skills.
Whether you’re dealing with a specific issue or just feeling stuck, talk therapy can help you reconnect with yourself and make meaningful progress. If you’re ready to experience the benefits for yourself, we’re here to support you. Reach out today to connect with a personal therapist in your area and begin your journey!
Social media is woven into our daily lives, offering a constant source of entertainment and opportunities for instant connection. But while social platforms have their benefits, they also carry risks—especially when used excessively or without awareness. Behind the humorous reel trends and beautifully curated feeds lies a growing mental health concern: social media addiction. And […]
Social media is woven into our daily lives, offering a constant source of entertainment and opportunities for instant connection. But while social platforms have their benefits, they also carry risks—especially when used excessively or without awareness. Behind the humorous reel trends and beautifully curated feeds lies a growing mental health concern: social media addiction. And it might be too late for you.
Even if you’re not “addicted,” high amounts of social media use can subtly impact your mood, confidence, and cognitive functioning in ways you might not expect. For example…
Increased anxiety – A doomscrolling habit and constant exposure to distressing news keeps the nervous system in a heightened state.
Damaged self-esteem – Seeing highlight reels from others’ lives makes it easy to compare yourself, which can trigger feelings of inadequacy and worthlessness.
Disrupted sleep – Chances are you’ve scrolled into the wee hours of the morning without realizing. Don’t make a habit of it! Late-night use of screens exposes you to blue light, which interferes with melatonin and restful sleep.
Reduced attention span – The fast-paced, instant gratification nature of content consumption rewires the brain to switch topics more readily, making it harder to focus. You may have already noticed how easily you become distracted.
These effects often go unnoticed until you’re rarely seen without your phone in hand. You start feeling mentally foggy, emotionally drained, or overwhelmed without knowing why.
So, you’ve determined there’s a problem. The good news is you don’t have to quit social media entirely. Our team is here for you! Therapy can teach you to set healthy boundaries and replace compulsive scrolling with habits that balance rather than unbalance you. Ready to take your life back from the screens? Reach out today to talk with a mental health professional about social media addiction and reclaim your attention!
Being a caregiver for a loved one is as exhausting as it is rewarding. Many caregivers find themselves stuck in a vicious cycle of putting their needs last, which leads to stress, exhaustion, and even caregiver burnout. When you need space to yourself to recharge, know that there is an option for you. Therapy for […]
Being a caregiver for a loved one is as exhausting as it is rewarding. Many caregivers find themselves stuck in a vicious cycle of putting their needs last, which leads to stress, exhaustion, and even caregiver burnout. When you need space to yourself to recharge, know that there is an option for you. Therapy for caregivers provides essential support for you to process emotions, build resilience, and regain balance on your own time.
Caregivers are integral parts of our society, but these people face unique challenges. The constant responsibility can cause feelings of guilt when taking personal time, frustration when progress is slow, or isolation from friends and activities. Over time, this pressure understandably impacts physical health, mood, and overall well-being.
In therapy, caregivers can express feelings they may suppress in daily life, such as anger or grief, without judgment. Counselors also guide clients through:
Setting healthy boundaries
Practicing self-care without guilt
Finding practical ways to reduce stress
Discovering tools to cope more effectively
If you like, you can even be connected with community resources or support groups. Knowing you’re not alone in the caregiving journey can bring relief and new perspectives.
Caring for others doesn’t have to mean neglecting yourself. In fact, prioritizing your mental health makes you a stronger, more resilient caregiver. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by responsibilities to your loved one, specialized therapy for caregivers can help you regain a balance. Schedule a session with our therapists today and start supporting yourself, too!