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    Coping With Grief After Losing Money

    April 9, 2025

    Have you recently experienced a financial setback? If so, you may be experiencing sadness, anger, fear, and all the other emotions commonly associated with grief. But isn’t grief usually reserved for illness and death? That’s actually not the case—grief can result from the loss of anyone or anything, including money. Financial grief often tends to […]

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    Coping With Grief After Losing Money

    Have you recently experienced a financial setback? If so, you may be experiencing sadness, anger, fear, and all the other emotions commonly associated with grief. But isn’t grief usually reserved for illness and death? That’s actually not the case—grief can result from the loss of anyone or anything, including money.

    Financial grief often tends to be about more than the money itself—it also centers on the loss of security as well as the loss of dreams that could only have been realized with those assets. For instance, parents may grieve not being able to pay for their children’s schooling, and older individuals may grieve not being able to retire as planned. And if someone is unable to make their mortgage payments, they may also grieve the loss of their family home.

    Tips for Healing From Financial Loss

    Financial grief can be incredibly difficult to experience, but it’s not an insurmountable obstacle. If you’re grieving a monetary loss, you should:

    • Acknowledge that you have a right to feel the way you do
    • Reach out to friends and family members for emotional support
    • Speak to a professional about the way you’re feeling
    • Focus on other positive aspects of your life
    • Think back to times when you’ve overcome challenges in the past
    • Try to think of this loss as a learning experience

    Are You Coping With the Loss of Money?

    If you’ve recently suffered the loss of a significant sum of money, contact us today. We specialize in grief and healing from loss, and we can help you move forward with your life. We’ll be happy to tell you more about our practice, schedule a therapy appointment, and answer any questions you might have.

    Filed Under: Grief, money

    Understanding Bipolar Disorder: Causes & Symptoms

    April 2, 2025

    Bipolar disorder (previously referred to as “manic depression”) is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings. Someone’s mood can shift from extreme highs (mania or hypomania) to extreme lows (depression). The frequency of these shifts varies from one person to another. What Causes Bipolar Disorder? Researchers are still trying to determine exactly what […]

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    Understanding Bipolar Disorder: Causes & Symptoms

    Bipolar disorder (previously referred to as “manic depression”) is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings. Someone’s mood can shift from extreme highs (mania or hypomania) to extreme lows (depression). The frequency of these shifts varies from one person to another.

    What Causes Bipolar Disorder?

    Researchers are still trying to determine exactly what causes bipolar disorder. With that said, studies suggest that this condition may develop due to genetics or physical changes within the brain.

    What Are the Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder?

    Bipolar disorder symptoms vary depending on the type of episode that someone is experiencing. For example, when someone is having a manic or hypomanic episode, they may:

    • Feel euphoric and upbeat
    • Be increasingly self-confident
    • Have more energy than usual
    • Experience racing thoughts
    • Get easily distracted
    • Become irritated more frequently than usual
    • Make poor decisions

    But when someone enters into a depressive episode, they may instead:

    • Feel sad, empty, hopeless, guilty, and worthless
    • Lose interest in the activities they once enjoyed
    • Have unexplained changes in their appetite and weight
    • Feel more tired than usual
    • Sleep too much or experience insomnia
    • Have trouble thinking, concentrating, and making decisions
    • Experience suicidal thoughts

    Experienced Therapists Treating Patients Near You

    If you’ve been diagnosed with bipolar disorder—or if you suspect that you might have this condition—you can turn to our skilled therapists for assistance. We’re highly experienced in treating bipolar disorder, and we’ll draw on this background to supply you with the knowledgeable, caring treatment you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a therapy session at a date and time that’s convenient for you.

    Filed Under: bipolar

    The Impact of Estrangement on Mental Health

    March 26, 2025

    Have you limited your communication and interactions with a family member, or stopped them entirely? If so, you’re not alone. According to statistics published by Psychology Today, over 25% of the U.S. population is currently estranged from a family member, and more than 43% have experienced family estrangement at some point during their lives. In […]

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    The Impact of Estrangement on Mental Health

    Have you limited your communication and interactions with a family member, or stopped them entirely? If so, you’re not alone. According to statistics published by Psychology Today, over 25% of the U.S. population is currently estranged from a family member, and more than 43% have experienced family estrangement at some point during their lives.

    In many cases, estrangement is necessary, such as when neglect and abuse have occurred. Many families also become estranged after divorce, incarceration, illness, or death, or due to conflicts about religion, partners, and lifestyle choices. Unfortunately, even if you feel that it’s important to cut off contact with a family member, estrangement can still take a toll on your mental health. For example, estrangement can often lead to:

    • Anxiety
    • Depression
    • Difficulty self-regulating
    • Feelings of rejection
    • Grief
    • Loneliness
    • Reduced self-esteem
    • Stress
    • Trust issues

    Although estrangement can result from a singular event, it often develops over time. Family members may separate, reconcile, and then repeat that cycle over and over again. When this happens, the resulting lack of closure can also impact the involved parties’ mental health.

    Speak to a Therapist

    Estrangement can take quite a toll on our lives, so if you’re currently estranged from a parent, a sibling, a child, or another loved one, it’s important that you prioritize your own mental health and well-being. One of the best things you can do is speak to a therapist who specializes in estrangement—once you’ve told them about your personal situation, they’ll be able to provide you with customized advice on how to move forward. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of the caring therapists at our practice.

    Filed Under: family, mental health

    How Spring Cleaning Can Improve Your Mental Health

    March 19, 2025

    As spring approaches, you might have the urge to thoroughly clean your home. Known as “spring cleaning,” this ritual commonly involves getting rid of items you no longer need and paying attention to areas that you often miss during regular cleaning sessions (for example, your baseboards, grout, and window treatments). Spring cleaning offers numerous physical […]

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    How Spring Cleaning Can Improve Your Mental Health

    As spring approaches, you might have the urge to thoroughly clean your home. Known as “spring cleaning,” this ritual commonly involves getting rid of items you no longer need and paying attention to areas that you often miss during regular cleaning sessions (for example, your baseboards, grout, and window treatments).

    Spring cleaning offers numerous physical benefits—in addition to providing a workout, it can help rid your home of dust, mildew, pet dander, pollen, and pollutants. But did you know that spring cleaning can also improve your mental health? Here’s how:

    • It helps you focus. When the environment around you is chaotic, it can make it difficult for you to focus on tasks (which can be especially frustrating if you work from home). By removing clutter and organizing your belongings, you’ll be making it easier for yourself to concentrate.
    • It reduces stress. If you’ve had certain tasks on your to-do list for quite a while, constantly seeing reminders of them not being done can raise your stress levels. Once you check those items off your list, it will make it easier for you to relax at home.
    • It helps you sleep. If your spring cleaning routine includes washing your bedding, vacuuming your mattress, and organizing your dressers and nightstands, it can make it easier for you to get a good night’s rest, which can in turn boost your mood and help you focus and remember things.

    Speak to a Therapist

    While spring cleaning can often be a great first step to take toward improving your mental health, sometimes you need some extra help. An experienced therapist—like the ones at our practice—can help you address any areas in which you’re struggling and achieve a better quality of life overall. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of the caring providers on our team.

    Filed Under: cleaning, mental health

    Healing Trauma Through EMDR: A Comprehensive Guide

    February 27, 2025

    Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapeutic approach designed to help individuals process and heal from trauma. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR focuses on reprocessing distressing memories to reduce their emotional intensity. By stimulating bilateral brain activity through guided eye movements, EMDR allows individuals to process traumatic experiences in a safe and […]

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    Healing Trauma Through EMDR: A Comprehensive Guide

    Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapeutic approach designed to help individuals process and heal from trauma. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR focuses on reprocessing distressing memories to reduce their emotional intensity.

    By stimulating bilateral brain activity through guided eye movements, EMDR allows individuals to process traumatic experiences in a safe and structured way, ultimately diminishing their impact.

    How EMDR Works

    EMDR therapy is structured into eight phases, beginning with history-taking and preparation before progressing into memory reprocessing. During sessions, a therapist guides the client through eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones while recalling distressing memories.

    This process helps the brain reprocess traumatic events, reducing emotional distress and altering negative thought patterns associated with the trauma. Over time, these distressing memories lose their hold, allowing individuals to heal and move forward with greater resilience.

    Benefits of EMDR for Trauma Healing

    EMDR is particularly effective for treating PTSD, anxiety, and other trauma-related conditions. Some of its key benefits include:

    • Reduced emotional distress related to past trauma
    • Improved ability to process difficult memories
    • Enhanced emotional regulation and resilience
    • Increased self-awareness and self-compassion
    • Long-term relief without extensive verbal recounting of traumatic experiences

    Is EMDR Right for You?

    If you have experienced trauma and struggle with anxiety, flashbacks, or emotional distress, EMDR may be a suitable treatment. It is particularly effective for individuals who have difficulty processing trauma through traditional therapy methods. Consulting with a trained EMDR therapist can help determine if this approach aligns with your healing journey.

    Take the First Step Toward Healing

    Trauma does not have to define your life. EMDR therapy provides an opportunity to process past experiences and regain control over your emotional well-being. Contact Marsh Psychology Group to schedule a consultation about our EMDR therapy and take the first step toward lasting healing.

    Filed Under: emdr, trauma

    Affirmative Therapy for the LGBTQIA+ Community

    February 19, 2025

    People within the LGBTQIA+ community share many things in common outside of sexuality and identity. Many seek therapy for things like self-esteem concerns, anxiety, relationship issues, and more. Regardless of the reason, someone from the community might seek counseling, it is important that their therapist will be accepting and supportive. What is LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapy? […]

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    Affirmative Therapy for the LGBTQIA+ Community

    People within the LGBTQIA+ community share many things in common outside of sexuality and identity. Many seek therapy for things like self-esteem concerns, anxiety, relationship issues, and more. Regardless of the reason, someone from the community might seek counseling, it is important that their therapist will be accepting and supportive.

    What is LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapy?

    LGBTQIA + Affirmative Therapy was developed to address the unique emotional and mental health needs of members of the LGBTQIA+ community. This therapy describes the acknowledgment and acceptance of an individual’s identity and sexual orientation. Therapists who offer affirmative therapy provide their LGBTQIA + clients a safe space to develop a healthy sense of self and strengthen their voice. 

    Tenets Of LGBTQ + Affirmative Therapy

    LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapy can help someone challenged with mental health issues navigate their life and choices in a more thoughtful and meaningful way. Here are some of the main tenets of LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapy:

    Safe Spaces

    The most important aspect of effective therapy is creating a safe space for the client to explore their emotions and heal any trauma. In LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapy, individuals are welcomed without any judgment or preconceived notions.

    Finding a True Ally

    Once a safe space and genuine trust have been established, an alliance can be fostered where the LGBTQIA+ individual feels they are supported and celebrated.

     

    What is the Best Way to Find an LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapist?

    If you would like to work with a trained LGBTQ + Affirmative therapist, there are several steps you can take to find one:

    • Ask a friend or acquaintance for a referral
    • As for a referral from a well-known LGBTQ + organization
    • Do a Google search specifically using the term LGBTQ + Affirmative Therapy

    Make a list of two to three therapists who seem qualified to help you with your unique issues, then feel free to call them to get a sense of their personality. A good therapist will be happy to speak with you to make sure your questions are answered and you feel comfortable moving forward.

    If you are experiencing a mental health issue and would like to work with an LGBTQ + Affirmative therapist, please reach out to me. I offer telehealth sessions and am happy to discuss how I may be able to help.

    SOURCES:

    • https://www.claritytherapynyc.com/lgbtqia-affirmative-therapy/
    • https://psychcentral.com/blog/sex/2014/04/understanding-lgbtq-affirmative-psychotherapy#1
    • https://www.goodtherapy.org/learn-about-therapy/issues/lgbt-issues
    • https://www.ndsu.edu/fileadmin/hdfs/documents/misc/Affirmative_therapy_handout.pdf

    Filed Under: lgbtqia+

    The Different Types of Psychotherapy

    February 17, 2025

    Psychotherapy can be a powerful vehicle for personal transformation. By speaking with a trained therapist in a safe and confidential environment, a person has the opportunity to explore their inner world and gain an understanding of their behaviors. Research has now shown that individual psychotherapy can be highly effective at improving the symptoms of a […]

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    The Different Types of Psychotherapy

    Psychotherapy can be a powerful vehicle for personal transformation. By speaking with a trained therapist in a safe and confidential environment, a person has the opportunity to explore their inner world and gain an understanding of their behaviors.

    Research has now shown that individual psychotherapy can be highly effective at improving the symptoms of a wide range of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and OCD. It can also be beneficial for families, couples and groups.

    More and more people are embracing the potential of psychotherapy in their life, but many are confused which is the right type for them. The following are some of the most common types of psychotherapy to give you a better idea of your options:

    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

    Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most used modalities in therapy. CBT is effective because it looks at the relationship between an individual’s thoughts, feelings and behaviors. It is a very empowering form of psychotherapy and works on a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, eating disorders and schizophrenia. 

    Eye Movement Desensitization And Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)

    Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR) has been used successfully for decades to treat PTSD. EMDR works by reducing the emotional distress that has been stored away in the brain from past traumas. 

    In each EMDR session, a trained therapist assists their client in performing a series of back and forth repetitive eye movements that essentially find the lingering traumatic emotions and disarm them.

    Interpersonal Therapy

    Interpersonal therapy focuses on improving the relationships an individual has with others. In these sessions the trained therapist helps their client evaluate their social interactions to recognize any negative patterns. Patterns can include social isolation and aggression. The goal is for the person to learn strategies for interacting positively with others.

    This is by no means an exhaustive list of types of psychotherapy. But if you are interested in learning more about psychotherapy and would like to explore treatment options, I would be happy to speak with you. Please feel free to give my office a call.

    SOURCES:

    Psychotherapy

    https://psychcentral.com/lib/types-of-psychotherapy

    https://positivepsychology.com/types-of-therapies/

    Filed Under: cbt, emdr, psychotherapy

    4 Ways Being Single Is Better for Your Mental Health

    February 14, 2025

    Being single can be difficult at times. Dating, or trying to get dates, can be frustrating and discouraging. Meeting new people can be fun, but you might long for a close, long-term relationship with one other person. If you find yourself staring longingly at couples holding hands, it may be time to re-evaluate, and learn […]

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    4 Ways Being Single Is Better for Your Mental Health

    Being single can be difficult at times. Dating, or trying to get dates, can be frustrating and discouraging. Meeting new people can be fun, but you might long for a close, long-term relationship with one other person. If you find yourself staring longingly at couples holding hands, it may be time to re-evaluate, and learn to appreciate the many benefits of single life. While being single can sometimes make you feel sad and lonely, there are times when its more beneficial for your mental health.

    1. More Time for the Gym

    Many studies have shown that single people exercise more, and overall live healthier lifestyles. Whether it’s the spare time or the desire to look your best (or a combination of the two), single men and women tend to care more about their health and well-being. Exercise improves your mood by releasing endorphins and reducing cortisol, a stress hormone that can make you more susceptible to stress.

    2. Rediscover Yourself

    One of the best things about being single is that you have the opportunity to rediscover yourself. Your alone time will cause you to be more introspective and develop insight into what makes you happy, and what your core values are. As you take a walk through a park or enjoy a cup of coffee alone, you can re-evaluate your goals. As you learn to feel comfortable in your own company, you’ll discover that happiness comes not from another person, but from within.

    3. Better Friendships

    Single adults have more time to network with others and develop outside friendships. You can schedule more time to be with (or make) friends, joining friends for birthdays and weekend trips that will make lifelong memories. In 2009, the Journal of the National Medical Association conducted a study that showed people without social support were more likely to suffer from anxiety or depression. Friendships reduce stress and anxiety, while increasing happiness and confidence.

    4. Find New Interests

    As a single person, you have additional time that you can use to develop new hobbies and interests. If you’ve always wanted to join a yoga or a spin class, join a hiking group or book club, you have time to dive in to new hobbies. Research shows that participating in hobbies can improve your mood and your ability to cope with stress.

     

    If you’re single and struggling with sadness or loneliness a licensed therapist can help. Give my office a call today and let’s schedule a time to talk.

    Filed Under: General, Separation/Divorce

    How to Know if You’re an Introvert

    February 12, 2025

    What’s the difference between introversion and extroversion, and how can you tell whether you’re an introvert? We’ve got the answers you need below. Introversion vs. Extroversion Before exploring common signs of introversion, it may be helpful to first explain what it means to be an introvert as opposed to an extrovert. These two opposing personality […]

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    How to Know if You’re an Introvert

    What’s the difference between introversion and extroversion, and how can you tell whether you’re an introvert? We’ve got the answers you need below.

    Introversion vs. Extroversion

    Before exploring common signs of introversion, it may be helpful to first explain what it means to be an introvert as opposed to an extrovert. These two opposing personality types are determined based on what energizes a person—introverts feel energized after being alone, while extroverts feel energized after being around other people.

    Signs You Might Be an Introvert

    Many people assume that introverts are shy and antisocial, but that’s not always the case. Many introverts have excellent interpersonal skills but simply feel more drained after engaging in social interactions. You may be an introvert if:

    • You prefer speaking to others one-on-one or in a small group setting and tend to become quieter around large groups of people.
    • You have a small group of close friends.
    • You enjoy relaxing solo activities like meditating, reading, and writing.
    • You take time making decisions, often processing your thoughts in your head rather than out loud.
    • You prefer individual work versus group work.

    Are You an Introvert?

    If any of the above sounds familiar, you may be an introvert. And if that’s the case, we can help! Our therapists have extensive experience working with introverts, and we can supply you with the tools and techniques you need to improve relationships, set boundaries, recharge your social battery, and enhance your overall quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a therapy session at a date and time that’s convenient for you.

    Filed Under: introvert

    Therapy for Divorce

    February 12, 2025

    When we say the words, “I do,” we never imagine that one day those words will turn into, “It’s over.” But the statistics point to the fact that many marriages do not make it. In fact, the CDC reports that 42% of marriages have a high probability of ending in divorce. Why Should You Consider […]

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    Therapy for Divorce

    When we say the words, “I do,” we never imagine that one day those words will turn into, “It’s over.” But the statistics point to the fact that many marriages do not make it. In fact, the CDC reports that 42% of marriages have a high probability of ending in divorce.

    Why Should You Consider Therapy for Divorce?

    When a marriage ends, it typically leaves one or both partners wondering, “what happened?” As a major life transition, divorce can be traumatic and mentally, physically, and emotionally draining.

    Therapy offers individuals powerful coping skills that can help them navigate their overwhelming thoughts and feelings. Therapy offers a safe space to explore and share your feelings so you can make sense of them yourself. It’s a way for people to have a healthier outlook on their divorce and become empowered during a very difficult time.

    Different Therapy Modalities for Divorce

    Every situation is unique and will require the right type of therapy:

    Individual Therapy

    Individual therapy is incredibly helpful for those people experiencing depression or anxiety, or who view the divorce as a personal failure. This type of therapy can help you discover your own needs and a better understanding of who you are.

    Couples Therapy

    Divorce will never be easy. But with the proper guidance, the lines of communication can stay open and the separation can remain constructive and amicable. A therapist can help you both navigate those hard decisions such as financial obligations and co-parenting.

    Family Therapy

    Children are, of course, deeply affected by a divorce, and often the parents are too consumed in their own emotions to offer proper guidance. Family therapy can help the entire family deal with the feelings of loss and grief.

    Mediation

    Settling a divorce in court can be costly and exhausting. Many couples choose to mediate their own divorce through the help of a trained therapist. Mediation not only costs less and typically takes far less time than divorce litigation, but it may also help improve your lines of communication as you both move forward.

    If you are going through a divorce and would like to discuss treatment options, please get in touch with me.

    SOURCES:

    • https://www.goodtherapy.org/learn-about-therapy/issues/divorce/recovery
    • https://www.therapytribe.com/therapy/divorce-counseling-advice-support/
    • https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/divorce-grownups/200904/marriage-counseling-and-the-decision-divorce

    Filed Under: Couples/Marriage, Separation/Divorce

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    26711 Woodward Ave. Suite 306
    Huntington Woods, MI 48070

    (248) 860-2024
    info@marshpsychologygroup.com

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    Marsh Psychology Group
    info@marshpsychologygroup.com
    (248) 860-2024

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