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Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can cause a person to have recurring, unwanted thoughts and urges (obsessions) and/or repetitively perform certain actions (compulsions). But did you know that there are numerous types of OCD? Below are five of the most common forms of this disorder. 1. Checking OCD This type of OCD causes someone to repeatedly check […]
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can cause a person to have recurring, unwanted thoughts and urges (obsessions) and/or repetitively perform certain actions (compulsions). But did you know that there are numerous types of OCD? Below are five of the most common forms of this disorder.
This type of OCD causes someone to repeatedly check items around their house because they’re worried that being careless could potentially lead to damage. For example, they may feel the urge to keep checking that their stove burners are off or that their door is locked.
Individuals with this type of OCD have the urge to repeatedly wash their hands and clean their home because they’re disgusted by the thought of dirty objects and fear catching an illness.
This type of OCD can cause distressing thoughts to pop into someone’s head at random times. For example, someone may suddenly think about hurting a friend or family member, swerving into oncoming traffic, or jumping from a high building.
Someone with this type of OCD is obsessed with having their things in exactly the right place. For instance, when putting groceries away, they might take the time to make sure that all of the labels face outward. And when hanging pictures, they may be careful to ensure that the frames are perfectly level.
As with intrusive thoughts OCD, this type of OCD can cause ideas to suddenly occur. However, with ruminations OCD, these thoughts typically aren’t distressing. Someone with this type of OCD will feel the urge to continue thinking about these ideas for an extended period of time, often causing them to ignore other responsibilities.
If you think you might have OCD, one of the first things you should do is reach out to a qualified therapist who has experience treating this disorder. Once we’ve spoken with you about your symptoms and medical history, we’ll be able to confirm your diagnosis and supply you with personalized treatment recommendations. Contact us today to schedule a therapy appointment at a date and time that fits into your schedule.
Parents face challenges at every stage of their child’s development, and infancy (birth to 1 year of age) is no exception. Here are some of the obstacles commonly faced when children are at this age, as well as some helpful parenting tips: Exhaustion – Regularly feeding, burping, changing, bathing, and soothing an infant leaves little […]
Parents face challenges at every stage of their child’s development, and infancy (birth to 1 year of age) is no exception. Here are some of the obstacles commonly faced when children are at this age, as well as some helpful parenting tips:
If you have an infant and you’re experiencing any of the parenting challenges described above, we may be able to help. We specialize in effective parenting, and we’ll be happy to discuss the issues you’re having and supply you with customized parenting tips. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
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 […]
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.
Financial grief can be incredibly difficult to experience, but it’s not an insurmountable obstacle. If you’re grieving a monetary loss, you should:
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.
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 […]
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:
But when someone enters into a depressive episode, they may instead:
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.
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 […]
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:
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.
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.
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 […]
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:
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.
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 […]
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.
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.
EMDR is particularly effective for treating PTSD, anxiety, and other trauma-related conditions. Some of its key benefits include:
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.
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.
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? […]
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.
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.
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.
If you would like to work with a trained LGBTQ + Affirmative therapist, there are several steps you can take to find one:
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:
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 […]
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:
https://psychcentral.com/lib/types-of-psychotherapy
https://positivepsychology.com/types-of-therapies/
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 […]
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.