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Anxiety can leave individuals caught in a web of worry and unease. At Marsh Psychology Group, we understand the weight that anxious thoughts carry and the toll they can take on one’s well-being. That’s why we offer help through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety relief. Understanding the Power of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Anxious thoughts […]
Anxiety can leave individuals caught in a web of worry and unease. At Marsh Psychology Group, we understand the weight that anxious thoughts carry and the toll they can take on one’s well-being. That’s why we offer help through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety relief.
Anxious thoughts can create a relentless cycle of negativity, impacting daily life and overall mental health. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a proven therapeutic approach designed to unravel the complexities of these thoughts. Our skilled therapists employ CBT techniques to address the root causes of anxiety, fostering a deeper understanding and providing practical tools for managing and overcoming anxious patterns.
Anxiety is a deeply personal experience, and so is the journey towards relief. Our therapists tailor CBT to every individual, recognizing that one size does not fit all. By collaboratively identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, we empower our clients to reshape their cognitive landscape, promoting resilience and lasting anxiety relief.
Embarking on a journey to alleviate anxiety takes courage, and at Marsh Psychology Group, we are here to support every step. Our compassionate therapists provide a safe space for clients to unravel anxious thoughts, fostering a sense of control and empowerment.
With Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at Marsh Psychology Group, you can unravel the threads of anxiety, paving the way for a calmer, more fulfilling tomorrow. Take the first step towards relief. Contact us today and let us guide you through the transformative process of unraveling anxious thoughts.
Many of us experienced social isolation during the recent pandemic. And none of us will deny that those days and weeks were very hard. Thankfully, the pandemic is over, and life for the majority of us has returned to normal. But for some people, social isolation didn’t go away; it is a part of their […]
Many of us experienced social isolation during the recent pandemic. And none of us will deny that those days and weeks were very hard. Thankfully, the pandemic is over, and life for the majority of us has returned to normal.
But for some people, social isolation didn’t go away; it is a part of their “normal” existence.
There are a variety of circumstances that cause people to be isolated from others, or to choose to isolate themselves:
We know there is a strong mind-body connection. How we feel emotionally effects how we feel physically. Studies are now revealing how social isolation can negatively impact our health. Here are just some of the effects on your health:
If you are isolated from others for any reason, it is important to recognize you may be suffering mentally, emotionally, and/or physically. Here are some ways you can cope with the situation:
If you would like to speak to someone about your anxiety or depression caused by isolation as well as the reasons for the isolation, please reach out to me. I offer online therapy for those who feel more comfortable accessing help from home.
SOURCES:
Understanding the Effects of Social Isolation on Mental Health
https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/social-isolation-mental-health
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/isolation-and-mental-health
The anxiety therapists at Marsh Psychology Group understand the overwhelming and debilitating nature of anxiety. In our commitment to your mental well-being, we offer specialized services designed to guide you from fear to freedom. Understanding Anxiety Anxiety is a prevalent mental health concern that can disrupt daily life, making even the simplest tasks seem insurmountable. […]
The anxiety therapists at Marsh Psychology Group understand the overwhelming and debilitating nature of anxiety. In our commitment to your mental well-being, we offer specialized services designed to guide you from fear to freedom.
Anxiety is a prevalent mental health concern that can disrupt daily life, making even the simplest tasks seem insurmountable. Our anxiety therapists specialize in helping individuals navigate through these challenges, providing tailored strategies and coping mechanisms. We recognize that each person’s journey is unique, and our approach is centered around your specific needs.
Choosing the right anxiety therapist is crucial on the path to healing. At Marsh Psychology Group, our therapists offer a safe and compassionate environment for you to express your concerns. With a deep understanding of anxiety disorders, we have a proven track record of helping individuals overcome anxiety. Your journey from fear to freedom is supported every step of the way.
Asking for help is a sign of strength, spirit, and commitment to oneself and loved ones. Don’t let anxiety hold you back from living your best life. Our anxiety therapists are dedicated to providing expert guidance.
From fear to freedom, Marsh Psychology Group’s anxiety therapists are here to support you. Break free from the chains of anxiety and embrace a life of fulfillment. Contact us today and embark on your journey to overcoming anxiety with the compassionate guidance of our dedicated therapists.
Everyone worries from time to time. But if you find yourself worrying on most days for at least six months, you may have a condition known as generalized anxiety disorder. People with this disorder often worry excessively about everyday issues, such as their: Health Family Work Money What Are the Symptoms of Generalized […]
Everyone worries from time to time. But if you find yourself worrying on most days for at least six months, you may have a condition known as generalized anxiety disorder. People with this disorder often worry excessively about everyday issues, such as their:
The hallmark symptom of generalized anxiety disorder is constant, uncontrollable worrying. Many people with this condition know that their concerns are unfounded but can’t stop worrying about them regardless, often to the point where the worries begin interfering with their relationships and daily routine. Some individuals report feeling anxious for no apparent reason, as if they sense that something bad is about to happen, but they can’t put their finger on what it is.
If you have generalized anxiety disorder, you may also experience:
There are many options for managing anxiety, and a trained provider can recommend the approach that’s best suited to your specific needs. For example, treatment for generalized anxiety disorder may involve:
If you think you might have generalized anxiety disorder or another type of anxiety, we can help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at a date and time that’s convenient for you.
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: […]
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:
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.
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 […]
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
At Marsh Psychology Group, we understand that anxiety can be overwhelming. We also believe that you have the strength to conquer it. Our dedicated team of experienced anxiety therapists is here to guide you on a journey towards a more peaceful and fulfilling life. What is Anxiety? Anxiety is a common and natural response to […]
At Marsh Psychology Group, we understand that anxiety can be overwhelming. We also believe that you have the strength to conquer it. Our dedicated team of experienced anxiety therapists is here to guide you on a journey towards a more peaceful and fulfilling life.
Anxiety is a common and natural response to stress, but when it becomes unmanageable and starts affecting your daily life, it’s time to seek help. Our anxiety therapists are trained to recognize the nuances of anxiety, helping you understand its underlying causes and triggers.
Marsh Psychology Group serves as your partner in conquering anxiety. We provide a safe and empathetic space for you to express your concerns and fears. Our experienced anxiety therapists will work with you to develop personalized treatment plans that cater to your unique needs.
Therapy is a powerful tool for managing and overcoming anxiety. Our anxiety therapists use evidence-based approaches to equip you with practical strategies for coping with anxious thoughts and feelings. You’ll learn to regain control over your life and build resilience against future challenges.
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for anxiety. Our anxiety therapists customize each treatment plan to ensure it aligns with your goals and preferences.
Don’t let anxiety hold you back from living your best life. Our anxiety therapists at Marsh Psychology Group are ready to help you understand and conquer your anxiety. Take the first step towards a brighter future and contact us today. Your journey to a more peaceful and fulfilling life starts here.
If you have any further questions or would like to schedule an appointment with an anxiety therapist, please reach out to us. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Navigating the Delicate Terrain: Things to Say to Someone Going Through a Mental Health Crisis As a licensed social worker, I understand the importance of offering support and guidance to individuals facing a mental health crisis. When interacting with someone experiencing such a crisis, it is crucial to remain empathetic, compassionate, and patient. […]
Navigating the Delicate Terrain: Things to Say to Someone Going Through a Mental Health Crisis
As a licensed social worker, I understand the importance of offering support and guidance to individuals facing a mental health crisis. When interacting with someone experiencing such a crisis, it is crucial to remain empathetic, compassionate, and patient. Here are some key phrases and ideas to help you provide support and reassurance during these difficult moments.
1. “I’m here for you.”
Let the person know that they are not alone. Express your availability, both physically and emotionally, to provide support. This simple statement can be incredibly powerful in assuring someone that they have a shoulder to lean on and someone to listen to their concerns.
2. “I care about you.”
Sometimes people going through a mental health crisis might feel as if nobody cares or understands their pain. Letting the individual know that you genuinely care about their well-being helps create a sense of safety and trust. This statement provides reassurance that they are valued and not alone in their struggles.
3. “It’s okay to feel this way.”
Validate their emotions by acknowledging that it is normal to experience feelings of distress, anger, sadness, or fear during a crisis. Avoid attempting to dismiss or minimize their emotions. Instead, show acceptance of their feelings, emphasizing that it is a natural part of the healing.
4. “You don’t have to go through this alone.”
Encourage the person to seek professional help. As a supportive friend or family member, there is only so much you can do. A mental health professional is trained to provide appropriate coping strategies, therapy, and, if needed, medication management. Encourage them to reach out for help and let them know you will support them in finding the appropriate resources.
5. “Take your time.”
In a mental health crisis, it is essential to give the person the time and space they need to process their emotions. Avoid pressuring them to “snap out of it” or “get over it.” Instead, emphasize that healing is a journey that takes time and patience.
6. “What can I do to help?”
Offer specific forms of assistance that might alleviate some of the burden they are facing. This could include helping with daily tasks, offering to find mental health resources, or simply being there to listen. By asking how you can help, you are giving the person a sense of control and agency in their situation.
7. “You’re not a burden.”
When someone is going through a mental health crisis, they may feel guilty or believe they are causing trouble for those around them. Reassure them that their feelings and experiences are not a burden on you or anyone else. Emphasize that you are there to help and support them in their journey towards healing.
8. “You are strong and resilient.”
Remind the person of their inner strength and resilience. This can help foster a sense of hope and confidence that they can overcome their current challenges. Share examples of times when they have faced adversity and emerged stronger.
9. “You matter.”
People in crisis can often feel hopeless or like they don’t matter. Reiterate the importance of their life and existence, emphasizing their unique qualities and the positive impact they have on others.
Approaching someone going through a mental health crisis requires empathy, patience, and compassion. Keep these phrases in mind when offering support, but remember that every individual’s experience is unique. Tailor your approach to their specific needs, and most importantly, be a consistent presence in their life as they navigate the complex road to recovery.
Sincerely,
Claudia Coxx, MSW, LMSW
248-860-2024 Ext. 505
Office Hours: Tu 3p-6p, W-Th 11a-7p; Fri 11a-5p; Sat 10a-1p
Detachment When we hear the word detached, we might immediately think of the negative connotation – someone who is not engaged in their life or with the world around them, unfeeling and cold, cut off from their emotions and from others. None of that sounds particularly healthy. But learning to use detachment effectively and […]
When we hear the word detached, we might immediately think of the negative connotation – someone who is not engaged in their life or with the world around them, unfeeling and cold, cut off from their emotions and from others. None of that sounds particularly healthy. But learning to use detachment effectively and intentionally can bring about positive change.
There are infinite possibilities when it comes to situations in which detachment could be beneficial. Here are a few areas to consider:
Detachment from unhelpful thoughts
The mind is constantly doing its job – thinking. In fact, we experience 80-90,000 thoughts each day. We usually assume each of these thoughts is useful and true, but our thoughts are not facts. Often, what we think is not worth paying attention to at all.
For example, imagine you reach out to an old friend and are waiting to hear back. Your mind might start having unhelpful thoughts:
‘They probably don’t want to hear from me’
‘No one ever wants to be my friend’
‘I shouldn’t have contacted them after so long’
None of these thoughts are facts, nor are they helpful in the moment. If you allow them to continue as usual, it becomes easy to attach to them and start to believe them.
Learning to detach from our thoughts in the moment starts with being more aware of what is happening in our mind. Begin to recognize your thoughts and decide if they are helpful and truthful. If not, try observing them without putting any value on them. Try using the phrase ‘My thoughts are telling me ___’ before the thought. Remind yourself ‘that is just a thought and thoughts are not facts.’ Another strategy involves imagery. Imagine your thoughts coming and going, drifting in and out of your mind, like watching clouds drift across the sky. Meditation is also an effective way to practice detachment from thoughts because it teaches us to stop paying attention to our thoughts in the moment.
Detachment from an outcome
When we care about something, attachment is natural. If you interview for your dream job, you will likely experience strong emotions about it and focus your thoughts on how much you want the job. The more we care about something, the more we want to control the outcome. So, it can feel counterintuitive to work on detaching in these situations. While attachment is natural, it is not always helpful, because we cannot control what happens. When we try to control, or make something happen, we will inevitably face resistance when things do not work out as we hoped. Resistance makes things more difficult. If you do not get the job offer and you were attached to the idea, you will likely have a much more difficult time accepting the outcome. Using detachment, we can acknowledge how we are feeling (how desperately we want the job), while also letting go of the desire to control the outcome. This involves an intention to trust that we can handle whatever outcome we face. Focusing on trusting ourselves to cope with the things we cannot control allows us to let go of unhelpful attachment to outcome.
Detachment from a difficult situation as it is happening
What can we do when we are in the middle of a situation and our thoughts and emotions are interfering with our ability tomake sound decisions? You guessed it- detach. For example, if we are in an argument with our spouse, we will likely feel triggered in some way. Maybe our body is in fight or flight, maybe we feel anger and want to lash out, or want to shut down and give the silent treatment.
If we act on any of these impulses, we are not acting in a way that is beneficial to ourselves or the relationship. Detaching from the situation can give us time to calm our nervous system and get centered, to process our emotions, and consider how we want to respond. Communicating the need to detach and takingtime alone to reflect before continuing a discussion can lead to a much better outcome.
Detachment from codependent patterns
Many of us find ourselves in codependent patterns in our relationships. Codependency causes us to be more focused on the needs of others than on ourselves, and underneath this we believe we can control the problem (or person) – and need to in order to be safe. This is often the case in relationships with someone who has an addiction or other mental illness. When our loved one is engaging in behavior that is harmful, we want to be able to stop the behavior, and try to control it as a result. This can take on many forms, including obsessing about it, worrying, monitoring/managing the other person, changing our own behavior, and ignoring our own needs.
One of the easiest ways to step out of this pattern is through practicing detachment: shifting our beliefs to accept we cannot control another person, and it is not our job to try. The addiction recovery field has been teaching the concept of ‘detaching with love’ for decades (Beattie, 1992).
We can begin to accept the premise of detachment by learning to focus on our own needs. When you find yourself focused on the other person: – their behavior, emotions, or needs – bring focus back to yourself. Ask yourself ‘What am I feeling and why?What do I need most right now?’ Then, do something to take care of yourself based on those needs.
As with most change, this will likely feel uncomfortable at first. With practice, detaching with love and focusing on yourself will become easier.
Learning to detach with intention and purpose is a process that takes time. A trained mental health professional can provide support and guidance for adopting these concepts in a way that benefits you as an individual.
-Laura Gross, LMSW
Laura Gross is a Clinical Therapist with Marsh Psychology Group
You can contact her at:
lgross@marshpsychologygroup.com
Beattie, M. (1992). Codependent No More. Center City, Minnesota: Hazelden.
EMDR-Phases 3&4 Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, commonly known as EMDR, is a mental health therapy approach that works to reduce distressing emotions that are linked to traumatic memories. EMDR treats the mental health conditions, often anxiety, depression or other symptoms, which occur because of the memories we have stored from these traumatic […]
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, commonly known as EMDR, is a mental health therapy approach that works to reduce distressing emotions that are linked to traumatic memories. EMDR treats the mental health conditions, often anxiety, depression or other symptoms, which occur because of the memories we have stored from these traumatic events.
In my first article on the phases of EMDR we looked at Phases 1&2-Client History/Treatment Planning and Preparation. Now we will look at Phases 3&4-Assessment and Desensitization.
Phase 3- Assessment
In phase three the client and therapist will work together to identify
the target memory that triggers emotional distress. This includes what incident caused the trauma? (Was it sexual assault, an accident, the death of a relative etc.?),and what is the most consistent image associated with the memory?
The first step is for the client to select a specific image or mental picture from the target event that best represents the memory. Then the client chooses a statement that expresses a negative self-belief associated with the event. Common negative cognitions could be statements such as, “I am helpless,” “I am worthless,” “I am unlovable,” “I am dirty,” “I am bad,” etc.
During phase three of EMDR therapy, a positive belief is also chosen to help counteract the negative emotions caused by the trauma. The client will pick a positive self-statement that he would rather believe. This statement could be “I am worthwhile/lovable/a good person/in control” or “I can succeed.”
The therapist will then ask the person to estimate how true the positive belief feels using the 1-to-7 Validity of Cognition (VOC) scale. “1” equals “completely false,” and” 7″ equals “completely true.” It is important to give a score that reflects how the person “feels,” not” thinks.”
During the Assessment Phase, the person identifies the negative emotions (fear, anger) and physical sensations (tightness in the stomach, headache) he or she associates with the target. The client also rates the level of disturbance, but uses a different scale called the Subjective Units of Disturbance (SUD) scale. This scale rates the feeling from 0 (no disturbance) to 10 (worst) and is uses this score to assess the disturbance that the client feels throughout the processing.
The goal of EMDR treatment, is for SUD scores of disturbance to decrease while the VOC scores of the positive belief to increase.
Phase 4- Desensitization
Phase four is where the processing of the memory and negative beliefs takes place. The therapist will use some form of Bilateral Stimulation (BLS) to stimulate the mind/brain to process whatever trauma is currently being held in the conscious mind. This usually involves instructing the client to follow hand movements back and forth or hold tappers in each hand.
After a number of eye movements or other form of BLS occur, the therapist will stop and ask, “What are you noticing now?” The client will comment in just a few words what they are noticing. This may be part of the memory, a feeling, or a body sensation. Most of the healing happens while the client is reviewing the memory with the BLS. The therapist will ask the client to continue by stating “Go with that”. The process then continues.
Depending upon the intensity of the response to the trauma, your therapist may adjust the length, speed and type of stimulation used to create the eye movements.
The therapist may have to “circle back” to the original memory multiple times depending on how deep or complex the trauma is, but the process remains the same. The therapist will keep asking the client to hold the memory and the belief and the feelings in mind, while also completing the BLS.
Eventually the memory will feel different. It will have less energy.
The therapist will keep offering BLS until the client is able to grade the memory at a much lower level of disturbance on the 1-10 scale, ideally at a zero –now the memory no longer bothers them. This is the goal of EMDR; to get the client from a point where the memory goes from 8 or 9 out of ten for intensity and unpleasantness, down to a 0-1 out of ten.
During reprocessing, maladaptively stored events are desensitized, integrated, and adaptively stored.
In my third and final segment of the phases of EMDR we will look at phases 5-8-Installation, Body scan and Re-evaluation.
If you have experienced trauma of any kind, and feel you could benefit from EMDR to reduce symptoms and to improve quality of life, feel free to reach out to me at Marsh Psychology Group.
Carol Van Kampen, LMSW is an individual private practice psychotherapist who specializes in anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma treatment at Marsh Psychology Group. Carol is EMDR trained. Contact her at marshpsychologygroup.com
cvankampen@marshpsychologygroup.com
” https://marshpsychologygroup.com/carol-van-kampen-lmsw/
Resources:
https://www.emdria.org/public-resources/the-eight-phases-of-emdr-therapy/