The Cancer “Firebomb”

The Cancer “Firebomb”

In 2021, Hannah Fry, a brilliant mathematician known for making complex concepts easy to understand, faced a problem with no simple equation: a diagnosis of cervical cancer. Her journey through that diagnosis, the resulting surgery, and her ongoing recovery was not just a medical event. It was a massive mental health event. Fry has been incredibly open about her experience, offering a look into the emotional reality of facing a life-threatening illness. Math, Mental Health, and Moving Forward She described the diagnosis as a "firebomb" thrown into her life. This is a sentiment that resonates with anyone who has ever…
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Anxiety and Anger Handout

Anxiety and Anger Handout

This is a handout I use in therapy for some people. Perhaps this handout will be helpful for your or a loved one. :) PART 1: THE VIBE CHECK (5 Minutes) Goal: Get settled without having to talk too much right away. 1. The Stress Speedometer Circle the number that matches your speed right now. 0 MPH25 MPH55 MPH90 MPH120 MPHParked. Totally asleep or bored.Cruising. Chill, normal energy.Speeding. A little anxious, thoughts moving fast.Reckless. Heart beating fast, agitated, shaky.Crash Risk. About to explode or shut down completely. 2. Choose Your Fighter (Circle One) If you had to deal with a…
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4 Handouts for Stress Management

4 Handouts for Stress Management

I use these types of handouts with my clients for stress management. You can try these at home! :) Handout 1: Understanding Your Response: Social Embarrassment, Panic, and Fight-or-Flight This handout helps you understand what happens when embarrassment in a social situation triggers a strong anxiety response. The Spark: When Embarrassment Becomes a Powerful Trigger Feeling embarrassed is a universal human experience. However, for individuals who experience social anxiety or have a tendency towards perfectionism, embarrassment can feel intensely threatening, especially when it occurs in front of someone whose opinion is highly valued or feared. The presence of an "audience"…
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Silly Ways to de-stress

Silly Ways to de-stress

Physical Release The Wet Dog Shake: Stand up and vigorously shake your hands, arms, legs, and torso for 30 seconds. Imagine you are a dog shaking off water after a swim. This helps discharge physical energy and resets the nervous system. The Silent Scream: Open your mouth as wide as possible and scream with all your intensity, but make absolutely no sound. This engages the facial and neck muscles to release frustration without creating noise. The Noodle Dance: Put on a song and dance as if you have no bones. Flail your arms and legs loosely rather than trying to…
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Private Practice Teletherapy for Adults, Couples

Private Practice Teletherapy for Adults, Couples

When you’re working hard to build and sustain a meaningful relationship or sexual life—and you’re also managing anxiety, anger, or the complex dynamics of non-traditional relationships—you deserve a therapist who gets you. Therapy for adults can be particularly beneficial in these situations. With over 20 years of clinical experience, I partner with adults, couples, and poly-/kink-/non-monogamy-friendly clients to help you feel more connected, more fulfilled, and more in control of your life right now. Does any of this sound familiar? You find yourself the “fixer” or “listener,” always taking care of others, and you’re worn out from trying to carry…
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Understanding Financial Infidelity

Understanding Financial Infidelity

The Secret That Can Destroy Your Marriage When you think of infidelity, your mind probably goes straight to a physical affair. But there's another kind of betrayal that can be just as damaging to a relationship, and it's happening in homes across Indiana, from Lafayette to Indianapolis. In fact, financial infidelity is a silent epidemic that is destroying trust and tearing couples apart. In my practice as a couples therapist, I see many partners who are blindsided when they discover a secret mountain of debt, a hidden bank account, or a significant purchase that was never discussed. The sense of…
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Gottman exercises and activities designed to deepen emotional intimacy

Gottman exercises and activities designed to deepen emotional intimacy

The Gottman Institute, founded by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, emphasizes building a "Sound Relationship House" to strengthen emotional connection. Their research suggests that small, consistent actions often have a greater impact on relationship satisfaction than grand gestures. Here are specific exercises and activities designed to deepen emotional intimacy from The Gottman Institute. 1. Building Love Maps A "Love Map" is the internal roadmap you have of your partner’s psychological world. This exercise helps you stay updated on your partner's life, as people change over time. The goal is to know their current stresses, joys, friends, and dreams. How to…
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Reclaiming Your Freedom in a World of Stress

Reclaiming Your Freedom in a World of Stress

The Unseen Chains We live in a world that often feels designed to keep us tethered. Tethered to our jobs, our responsibilities, our anxieties. This all contributes to a stressful life. The relentless pursuit of stability, security, and success can leave us feeling trapped, like hamsters on an endless wheel. While the specifics of our individual circumstances may vary, the underlying feeling of being constrained by our lives is a shared experience. We yearn for freedom, a sense of autonomy that seems increasingly elusive. This isn't about the open road of a trucker (or it could be!!), but the metaphorical…
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Navigating the Road Ahead: Mental Wellness Tips for Truckers

Navigating the Road Ahead: Mental Wellness Tips for Truckers

Inspired by Wayne's insightful blog post, "Where's the Light?", I wanted to expand on the topic of mental well-being for truckers, especially in challenging economic times. While advocating for change through organizations like OOIDA and contacting your representatives is important, it's equally crucial to focus on what you can control. Worrying about factors outside your influence only leads to stress-related problems like ulcers, depression, difficulty concentrating, arguments, and anger. It's vital to recognize the difference between what's in your power and what isn't. This post offers encouragement and practical strategies for truckers facing common challenges: Managing Worrying Thoughts Negative thoughts,…
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Therapy Isn’t Just for Crises—It’s for Real Life

Therapy Isn’t Just for Crises—It’s for Real Life

Before I became a therapist, I used to think people only went to therapy when they were falling apart. I was unaware of the many benefits of therapy or counseling beyond just dealing with crises. That’s what I saw on TV, and honestly, that’s what I assumed when I first heard someone was “seeing a therapist.” I thought it meant they were in deep trouble. But now, after years of doing this work, I can confidently tell you: therapy isn’t just for crisis—it’s for real life. Most of the people I work with aren’t falling apart. They’re just stuck. They’re…
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