• Book an intake consultation Contact Now Schedule an Appointment

    26711 Woodward Ave. Suite 306
    Huntington Woods, MI 48070
    (248) 860-2024

  • Marsh Psychology Group

    My WordPress Blog

    • Home
    • Our Staff
      • Pamela Marsh, Psy.D.
      • Carol VanKampen, LMSW
      • Monika Sata, Ph.D. , LLP
      • Randia Dickerson, LMSW
    • Services
      • Anxiety
        • Anxiety Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
      • Depression
        • Depression Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
      • Grief therapy
      • Transformative Therapies
        • Transformative Therapy Madison Heights, MI
      • EMDR therapy
        • EMDR Therapy Madison Heights
      • Individual Therapy
      • PTSD
        • PTSD therapist Madison Heights, MI
      • Relationship Issues
      • Self-Esteem Therapy
      • Social Anxiety
      • Therapy for Teens
      • Therapy for Women
      • Trauma Therapy
        • Trauma therapist Madison Heights, MI
      • Divorce Therapy
        • Divorce therapist Madison Heights, MI
      • Grief Therapy
      • Social Anxiety
      • Therapy for Teachers
      • Relationship Issues
      • Therapy for Nurses
      • Individual Therapist
      • Trauma Therapist
      • Therapy for women
      • EMDR Therapist
      • Therapy for Teens
      • Therapy for Codependency
        • Therapy for codependency Madison Heights, MI
      • Black woman therapist
        • Black woman therapist Madison Heights, MI
      • Therapy for Postpartum Depression
        • Therapy for postpartum depression Madison Heights, MI
    • Getting Started
      • FAQs
      • Rates and Insurance
      • Client Forms
      • Appointment Request
    • Resources
      • Service Areas
        • Therapy Services in Huntington Woods, MI
        • Therapy Services in Royal Oak, MI
        • Therapy Services in Madison Heights, MI
      • Mental Health Links
      • Physical Health Links
    • Careers
    • Contact
    • Blog

    Am I Sad or Depressed?

    December 13, 2023

    Into each life a little rain must fall is a way of saying every one of us will experience sadness in our lifetime. It is completely normal and natural. But there are some people who feel something deeper and darker than sadness, and they may feel this way despite there being no triggering event such […]

    Read More

    Am I Sad or Depressed?

    Into each life a little rain must fall is a way of saying every one of us will experience sadness in our lifetime. It is completely normal and natural. But there are some people who feel something deeper and darker than sadness, and they may feel this way despite there being no triggering event such as the loss of a loved one. 

    So how can we tell the difference between sadness and depression?

    Sadness versus Depression: The Real Difference?

    As I just mentioned, sadness is a normal reaction to a difficult event in our life. We may feel sad because of a breakup or from losing a loved one or from leaving our friends after graduation. In other words, we feel sadness about something.

    Depression, on the other hand, affects not only our emotions but also how we act and perceive the world. Depression does not require a triggering event. In fact, when we’re depressed, we tend to feel upset about any- and everything.

    Depression clouds our entire lives. When we’re depressed, nothing feels as enjoyable or worthwhile as it once did. In short, we simply feel less alive.

    Symptoms of Depression

    To be diagnosed with depression, an individual must be diagnosed with at least five of the following common symptoms for a continual duration of at least two weeks:

    • An irritable or depressed mood 
    • A decreased interest in once enjoyable activities
    • Changes in weight or appetite
    • Changes in our sleep patterns
    • Feeling sluggish most days; having a lack of energy and motivation
    • Feelings of worthlessness
    • Trouble focusing or concentrating
    • Suicidal ideation

    If you or a loved one are experiencing depressed, it is very important to reach out for help from a trained mental health therapist. Depression robs you of your life, purpose and happiness, but there are strategies to break free and find joy once again.

    I would be happy to discuss some treatment options with you. Please give my office a call.

    SOURCES:

    https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/depression-vs-sadness

    https://screening.mhanational.org/content/am-i-depressed-or-just-sad/

    https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-squeaky-wheel/201510/the-important-difference-between-sadness-and-depression

    Filed Under: Depression, sadness

    Embrace Imperfection Over Perfection

    December 13, 2023

    Perfectionism—the tendency to demand flawlessness from yourself or others—can often be a positive quality. Perfectionists tend to be highly motivated and ambitious, and thanks to their close attention to detail and their willingness to work long hours, they often excel at school and in the workplace.   However, perfectionism also has a downside. In some […]

    Read More

    Embrace Imperfection Over Perfection

    Perfectionism—the tendency to demand flawlessness from yourself or others—can often be a positive quality. Perfectionists tend to be highly motivated and ambitious, and thanks to their close attention to detail and their willingness to work long hours, they often excel at school and in the workplace.

     

    However, perfectionism also has a downside. In some cases, perfectionists can be overly critical, taking an all-or-nothing mindset and failing to accept anything that doesn’t meet their (sometimes unattainable) standards, no matter how much time and effort went into the work. Perfectionists also tend to base their own self-worth on their performance abilities, which can be damaging if they don’t deliver perfect results. In fact, studies have shown that perfectionists often experience higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, and are more likely to become burned out.

     

    Tips for Embracing Imperfection

     

    Perfectionism can be difficult to overcome, but it’s possible to do so. Here are some tips for how to manage perfectionist tendencies:

     

    • Set more realistic goals.
    • Reduce how much effort you’re putting into tasks and pay attention to whether anyone notices any difference in the results.
    • Try to think of mistakes as learning opportunities.
    • Recognize when you begin to think like a perfectionist, and then challenge those thoughts.
    • If seeing pictures and videos of people leading seemingly perfect lives triggers you, remind yourself that their posts are likely curated (and if that still doesn’t work, try taking a break from social media altogether).

     

    For More Information

     

    Do you suspect that you might be a perfectionist? If so, we invite you to schedule an appointment with one of the knowledgeable therapists at our practice. We’re highly experienced in treating patients who struggle with perfectionism, and we can supply you with personalized advice that will help you embrace imperfection and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to get started.

    Filed Under: perfectionism

    Understanding Common Anxiety Disorders

    December 11, 2023

    Anxiety is very common—in fact, according to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA), anxiety disorders affect 40 million U.S. adults every year. Yet many people don’t have a strong understanding of anxiety and may not realize that it can take many forms. Here are some of the most common types of anxiety:   […]

    Read More

    Understanding Common Anxiety Disorders

    Anxiety is very common—in fact, according to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA), anxiety disorders affect 40 million U.S. adults every year. Yet many people don’t have a strong understanding of anxiety and may not realize that it can take many forms. Here are some of the most common types of anxiety:

     

    • Generalized anxiety disorder – Individuals with generalized anxiety disorder worry excessively about everyday issues (for example, health, family, work, and money) on most days for at least six months.
    • Panic disorder – This condition causes people to experience recurrent panic attacks, which are often accompanied by physical symptoms like chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, and sweating. Panic attacks may also cause someone to feel like they’re dying or fear that they’re going crazy.
    • Separation anxiety disorder – Separation anxiety disorder causes someone to fear being separated from a person that’s close to them. This condition is more common in children but may also affect teenagers and adults.
    • Social anxiety disorder – While it’s common for people to feel shy, individuals with social anxiety disorder experience intense fears about social interactions. For example, they may worry that they’ll embarrass themselves or that others will judge them.
    • Agoraphobia – People with agoraphobia fear leaving environments that they consider safe (for example, their home), to the point that it disrupts their normal routine. They may fear that they won’t be able to escape a situation or that help might not be available to them.

     

    Need Help Managing Anxiety?

     

    If you’ve been diagnosed with or suspect that you have an anxiety disorder, we can help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at a date and time of your choosing.

    Filed Under: Anxiety

    Unraveling Anxious Thoughts: Transformative Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at Marsh Psychology Group

    December 1, 2023

    At Marsh Psychology Group, we understand the intricate web of anxious thoughts that can overshadow your daily life. Our dedicated team of anxiety therapists specializes in providing compassionate and effective Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to bring relief and empowerment. Understanding Anxiety: A Personalized Approach We recognize that anxiety is a unique and personal experience. Our […]

    Read More

    Unraveling Anxious Thoughts: Transformative Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at Marsh Psychology Group

    At Marsh Psychology Group, we understand the intricate web of anxious thoughts that can overshadow your daily life. Our dedicated team of anxiety therapists specializes in providing compassionate and effective Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to bring relief and empowerment.

    Understanding Anxiety: A Personalized Approach

    We recognize that anxiety is a unique and personal experience. Our anxiety therapists approach every individual with a personalized understanding, acknowledging that the journey to mental well-being is different for everyone. Through CBT, we delve into the core of anxious thoughts, unraveling them to empower you with tailored coping mechanisms.

    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Your Path to Relief

    CBT is a goal-oriented, evidence-based therapeutic approach that focuses on identifying and reshaping negative thought patterns. By collaboratively addressing distorted thinking, we guide you towards healthier perspectives, enabling you to navigate life’s challenges with newfound resilience.

    Why Choose Marsh Psychology Group for Anxiety Therapy?

    Choosing an anxiety therapist is a significant step, and we prioritize your well-being. Our therapists provide a safe, judgment-free space for you to express your concerns. With a deep understanding of anxiety disorders, we have a proven track record of guiding individuals toward lasting relief.

    Contact Us for a Journey to Anxiety Relief

    Don’t let anxious thoughts dictate your life. Take the courageous step towards relief by contacting Marsh Psychology Group today. Our anxiety therapists are dedicated to supporting you on your path to unraveled thoughts and a life free from the constraints of anxiety.

    Filed Under: Anxiety

    Overcoming Depression: Practical Steps

    December 1, 2023

    Do you experience persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, worthlessness, or guilt? Are you feeling fatigued, anxious, restless, or like you can’t focus? Have you lost interest in the activities you once enjoyed, or have your coworkers or loved ones noticed that you’ve been more irritable than usual? If this sounds familiar, you might have […]

    Read More

    Overcoming Depression: Practical Steps

    Do you experience persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, worthlessness, or guilt? Are you feeling fatigued, anxious, restless, or like you can’t focus? Have you lost interest in the activities you once enjoyed, or have your coworkers or loved ones noticed that you’ve been more irritable than usual?

    If this sounds familiar, you might have depression, a common but serious mood disorder. You should schedule an appointment with a therapist as soon as possible, but in the meantime, here are some practical steps you can take to help manage your depression:

    • Eat a nutritious diet.
    • Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, five times a week (but be sure to consult with a doctor before beginning a new workout regimen).
    • Get at least seven hours of sleep each night and try to fall asleep and wake up at the same time each day.
    • Schedule time for a fun activity each day, even if it’s only for 30 minutes.
    • Spend time with loved ones and limit the amount of interaction you have with individuals who bring you down.
    • Give back to your community (for example, by volunteering at a local nonprofit organization).
    • Set attainable goals for yourself (for instance, rather than saying that you’ll clean the entire house, commit to washing the dishes in the sink).

    Get Help Managing Your Depression

    Are you having trouble overcoming sadness? We can help you take the first step toward conquering your depression and improving your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a therapy session.

    Filed Under: Depression

    Understanding Panic Disorder

    November 29, 2023

    If you’ve had at least four panic attacks and you regularly worry that you’ll experience another one, you may have panic disorder. In some cases, this type of anxiety can make it difficult for people to leave their home, since they may worry about when and where their next panic attack will occur. What Does […]

    Read More

    Understanding Panic Disorder

    If you’ve had at least four panic attacks and you regularly worry that you’ll experience another one, you may have panic disorder. In some cases, this type of anxiety can make it difficult for people to leave their home, since they may worry about when and where their next panic attack will occur.

    What Does a Panic Attack Feel Like?

    Panic attacks cause someone to feel an overwhelming sense of fear. During one of these attacks, you may experience:

    • Trembling and shaking
    • Numbness
    • Hot flashes or chills
    • Sweating
    • Lightheadedness and dizziness
    • A pounding heartbeat
    • Chest pain
    • Shortness of breath
    • A choking sensation
    • Nausea and stomach pain
    • Fear of losing control, going crazy, or dying
    • A sensation of being disconnected or unreal

    While some panic attacks subside within just a few minutes, others last for more than an hour. Depending on the frequency, duration, and severity of panic attacks, panic disorder can sometimes become disabling, preventing someone from holding a job and engaging in other regular activities.

    How Is Panic Disorder Treated?

    Treatment for panic disorder varies from one person to another, and a trained provider can recommend the approach that’s most appropriate for your specific needs. With that said, panic disorder treatment often involves:

    • Taking medication (e.g., anti-anxiety medication or antidepressant medication)
    • Attending counseling
    • Learning coping skills and relaxation techniques

    Offering Help With Anxiety Disorders

    Our team has extensive experience treating various types of anxiety, including panic disorder, so if you need assistance, contact us today. We’ll be glad to schedule a therapy session at a date and time of your choosing. We look forward to helping you take the first step toward managing your anxiety.

    Filed Under: panic attacks, panic disorder

    What Is Disenfranchised Grief?

    November 29, 2023

    Disenfranchised grief is a type of grief that isn’t accepted or acknowledged by society. (This makes sense, as Merriam-Webster defines “disenfranchised” as being “deprived of some right, privilege, or immunity.”) For example, people may tell the grieving person that they should be “over it” by now. Unfortunately, when someone’s grief isn’t validated by those around […]

    Read More

    What Is Disenfranchised Grief?

    Disenfranchised grief is a type of grief that isn’t accepted or acknowledged by society. (This makes sense, as Merriam-Webster defines “disenfranchised” as being “deprived of some right, privilege, or immunity.”) For example, people may tell the grieving person that they should be “over it” by now. Unfortunately, when someone’s grief isn’t validated by those around them, they may not get the support they need to cope with their loss, which can in turn prolong the grieving period.

     

    When Is Grief Disenfranchised?

     

    Disenfranchised grief can occur whenever someone’s grief doesn’t align with societal expectations. For instance, your grief may be disenfranchised if:

     

    • You’re grieving the loss of someone who wasn’t a close friend or immediate family member.
    • You regularly experience death as part of your job, and as such, your loved ones expect you to not take those losses so personally (this is common among doctors, nurses, and EMTs).
    • You’re grieving the loss of something other than life (e.g., a friendship or a job).
    • You’re not experiencing the emotions normally associated with grief (e.g., sadness and anger).
    • Your grief lasts longer than your loved ones expect it to.

     

    Discuss Your Grief With a Professional

     

    Disenfranchised grief can lead to serious consequences, such as depression, low self-esteem, withdrawal from social circles, and substance abuse. So, if you think you may be experiencing disenfranchised grief, it’s important that you speak to a therapist who specializes in healing from loss. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of the knowledgeable therapists at our practice.

    Filed Under: Grief

    Understanding Social Anxiety Disorder

    November 24, 2023

    Also known as “social phobia,” social anxiety disorder causes someone to intensely fear normal social interactions. This is more than shyness or a fear of public speaking—someone with social anxiety disorder excessively worries about being judged during everyday situations such as making eye contact with someone or talking to a stranger. They may be reluctant […]

    Read More

    Understanding Social Anxiety Disorder

    Also known as “social phobia,” social anxiety disorder causes someone to intensely fear normal social interactions. This is more than shyness or a fear of public speaking—someone with social anxiety disorder excessively worries about being judged during everyday situations such as making eye contact with someone or talking to a stranger. They may be reluctant to attend school, work, a date, or a party, and they also may feel anxious about eating in front of others, using public restrooms, or returning items to stores.

    Physical Signs of Social Anxiety Disorder

    In addition to feeling anxiety, embarrassment, fear, humiliation, or self-consciousness, someone with social anxiety disorder may experience:

    • Blushing
    • Difficulty catching their breath
    • Dizziness
    • Increased heart rate
    • Lightheadedness
    • Muscle tension
    • Nausea
    • Sweating
    • Trembling
    • Voice shakiness

    If someone with social anxiety disorder experiences physical signs like the ones listed above, they may also worry that others will notice that they appear anxious.

    How Is Social Anxiety Disorder Treated?

    Treatment for social anxiety disorder varies depending on factors such as symptom severity. With that said, many people with this type of anxiety benefit from attending counseling and taking medication such as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), an anti-anxiety medication, or a beta blocker.

    The Provider to Choose for Anxiety Disorder Treatment

    If you’re worried that you have social anxiety disorder or another type of anxiety, you can rely on us for treatment. We regularly assist patients with managing anxiety, and we can do the same for you. Contact us today to request an appointment.

    Filed Under: social anxiety

    Coping With Grief After Losing Your Sense of Safety

    November 20, 2023

    If you’re having trouble feeling safe after experiencing a traumatic event or series of events—whether recently or in the distant past—you’re not alone. It’s very common for trauma to cause people to lose their sense of safety. In fact, studies show that traumatic experiences can alter the way that the brain and central nervous system […]

    Read More

    Coping With Grief After Losing Your Sense of Safety

    If you’re having trouble feeling safe after experiencing a traumatic event or series of events—whether recently or in the distant past—you’re not alone. It’s very common for trauma to cause people to lose their sense of safety. In fact, studies show that traumatic experiences can alter the way that the brain and central nervous system function, causing someone to feel insecure in various areas of their life.

     

    Fortunately, there are steps you can take to heal from your trauma, regain your sense of safety, and cope with any grief you may be experiencing. It’s important to consult with a therapist, since professionals have the training and experience needed to help guide you through this difficult time. With that said, you may also want to try:

     

    • Practicing mindfulness (focusing on the present moment)
    • Eating a nutritious diet
    • Incorporating exercise into your daily routine
    • Getting enough sleep
    • Spending time with loved ones
    • Joining a support group
    • Acknowledging to yourself and others that you need time to heal (even if you don’t disclose the specific details of your trauma)

     

    The Help You Need to Heal From Loss

     

    If you’ve experienced an event that destroyed your sense of safety, you may be feeling alone, but we can help. We have extensive experience treating grief and helping patients cope with loss, and we may be able to assist you, too. Contact us today, and we’ll gladly arrange a therapy appointment at a date and time that’s convenient for you.

    Filed Under: Grief, safety

    Coping With Grief After Losing a Dream

    November 17, 2023

    Have you recently lost a dream? Maybe you always imagined going to the college your parents attended, but you received a rejection letter after applying. Perhaps you pictured getting back together with a significant other, but you found out that they’ve gotten married to someone else. Or maybe you dreamed of having a family, but […]

    Read More

    Coping With Grief After Losing a Dream

    Have you recently lost a dream? Maybe you always imagined going to the college your parents attended, but you received a rejection letter after applying. Perhaps you pictured getting back together with a significant other, but you found out that they’ve gotten married to someone else. Or maybe you dreamed of having a family, but you’re dealing with infertility.

     

    Whatever the circumstances may be, the loss of a dream can lead to feelings of grief, potentially including disbelief, sadness, and anger. Here are some tips for steps you can take to overcome your grief and heal from this loss:

     

    • Give yourself time to grieve. People often think of grief only in terms of illness or death, but it’s certainly possible—and common—to grieve the loss of a dream. Take the time you need to process your feelings, and don’t let others minimize what you’re going through.
    • Be realistic. If your ex has moved on, for example, focus on what led to your breakup in the first place. If you had conflicting personalities or beliefs, it may be for the best that you didn’t get back together.
    • Consider alternatives. Your dream may still be possible, just not in the way you originally pictured. For instance, if you had dreamed of giving birth, you may still be able to create a family through surrogacy or adoption.

     

    Most importantly, take note of this quote by C.S. Lewis, the renowned author of “The Chronicles of Narnia”: “You are never too old to set a new goal or to dream a new dream.”

     

    We Can Help You Cope With Your Loss

     

    If you’re healing from the loss of a dream, one of the best things you can do is speak to an experienced therapist. A therapist who specializes in grief—like the ones at our practice—will have unique insight into the way you may be feeling right now, and they can help guide you through your loss. Contact us today and let us know that you’d like to attend a therapy session.

    Filed Under: Grief

    • « Previous Page
    • 1
    • …
    • 12
    • 13
    • 14
    • 15
    • 16
    • …
    • 30
    • Next Page »


    26711 Woodward Ave. Suite 306
    Huntington Woods, MI 48070

    (248) 860-2024
    info@marshpsychologygroup.com

    Contact Today

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

    A Website by Brighter Vision | Privacy Policy