On self-care, breathing and living life

Everyday we encounter challenges. Many have traumatic experiences that make them feel numb, useless and inadequate. She of us just are trying to make it through the day without a panic attack. When I tell my clients to embrace self-care what exactly am I envisioning? Well...let's talk about it. Self-care means what you want it to. Sound too simple? I bet. Self-care means taking care of you. Since we are all different that proper definition might just come have to come from the recipient. Some people love bubble baths...I prefer a very hot shower with music in the background and all kinds of spa like masques near by. You see my point? Self-care is up to you. The list can go on and on...the most important list when it comes to self-care is to schedule it in. Yes. make it happen. Do it. Today. What can you do today? Play basketball? Knit? read? Watch a movie? It does not matter...but make it work for you today. Take a breath, do a self-care activity and live because although the next challenge may be around the corner the next self-care activity can help you get through it.

Mentally ready and in season

Seasons can be interesting when we look at mental health and wellness. Some people are inspired by holiday tunes signaling a future snowfall and some get quite sad when the fluffy white stuff obstructs their walkway. Here are some good ideas to think about to take care of your wellness in and out of season. Start the day with something that makes you smile! Do you have a joke book? Devotional? journal? something that can set up a healthy morning routine? If not try it out. Even a joyful affirmation on you bathroom mirror might remind you that snow or blaring sunshine is only temporary but you are you forever and that is a good thing. A bunch of roses in a vase or a cute photo of a treasured niece or nephew on your desk might remind you of being light-hearted and of creativity. Whatever it is that can make you smile save it for days when the weather is not in your favor. Write a list and keep it close so that you can implement these tips into days when the thunder is crashing or the wind is knocking your power out. BE WELL!

Preparing your child for therapy tip #6

6) Hire a therapist that has a specialty in child and adolescent modalities.

It is important that your child enters this new journey with a therapist that is familiar with treating children. It is not enough for them to decide that they will take on your special case-be sure that they typically treat this population. What does this mean? It means that they understand current trends, pop-culture amongst this population and generally like children and teens. It is an added burden for a kid or teen to explain generational differences to their therapist. A good counselor for kids or teens needs to care about current events when it comes to young people.

Preparing your child for therapy tip #5

5) Find books and resources for children about therapy.

Information is power. If a child has resources at their disposal they are apt to feel more comfortable with the process. Resources can include podcasts, blogs, children’s books, magazines and more. Some therapists might offer workshops and lunch & learn opportunities for families. Be sure to ask if your clinician has any suggestions.

Preparing your child for therapy Tip #4

4) Listen to their concerns.

What makes this process scary for your kid? Are they nervous about meeting a stranger to talk to? Are they embarrassed? Ask them. Hear their fears and don’t worry about reassuring them right away. You need to know what they think about the idea of therapy and if they share specifics it is important to understand their concerns. When parents listen they become a great model and example of one of the biggest benefits of therapy.

Preparing your child for therapy Tip #3

3) Explain the therapy process.

Talk to your child about the specific therapy that they will be receiving. If it is play therapy for example, ask the potential counselor for a fact sheet about his/her practice before your child meets their new practitioner. Research the topic online and try to find Youtube clips or supportive apps that can provide a good explanation to your child about what therapy is. This is also a great time to empower your child to think about what they would want to talk about in their sessions. Many young people feel like they have to keep many thoughts and feelings bottled inside-help them to understand that this is a special time for them to feel free to express their hidden thoughts with someone who wants to listen and help.

How to prepare your child for therapy Tip #2

2) Be honest about your own limitations.

Make sure that your child knows that although you are 100% committed to helping them. It is important that they know that you are dedicated to being there for them. This is a great opportunity to let them know that we all need help sometimes and the best way that you can help them is to bring in a professional who can help the entire family.