Psychiatrist vs Prescribing Psychologist – What is the Difference?
If you are trying to decide between a psychiatrist vs prescribing psychologist, you are not alone. Many people feel confused about who does what, who can prescribe medication, and which provider is the best fit for their needs. Understanding the differences can help you make a more informed and confident decision about your mental health care. [read more]
Traumatic Invalidation: What It Is, How It Affects You, and How to Heal
If you have ever felt like your emotions were dismissed, ignored, or “too much,” you may have experienced traumatic invalidation. Traumatic invalidation is an issue that affects many people, often leading to emotional vulnerability and distress. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) provides valuable insights and strategies for understanding and addressing this challenge. This blog post explores traumatic invalidation from a DBT [read more]
Navigating Your First Therapy Session
Scheduling your first therapy session can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your initial sessions and build a successful therapeutic relationship. [read more]
Embracing the Journeys of Childfree and Childless Women
In our society, the topic of motherhood is often treated as a default expectation for women. From an early age, girls are given dolls to nurture. As they grow older, the question of “When are you having kids?” becomes almost as routine as “How are you?” These are some of the things that Childfree/Childless women experience. [read more]
Navigating the Pain of Grief and Loss
Grief is a universal experience. At some point in life, we all encounter loss, yet when it arrives, it feels singular and isolating. In my life, grief has knocked on my door several times with unexpected force: first in 2011, with the sudden death of my mother-in-law, and again in 2022, when I lost a close friend. [read [read more]
The Truth About Suicidal Thoughts – Part 2
Suicidal thoughts are a complex and stigmatized topic, often left undiscussed due to the fear and misunderstandings surrounding it. For Suicide Prevention Month, it’s essential to break down these barriers and address why so many people hesitate to talk about their suicidal thoughts. [read more]
The Truth About Suicidal Ideation – Part One
At age 13, I tried to take my own life. Overwhelmed by suicidal ideation and emotions I couldn’t understand or express, I attempted suicide by overdose and almost died. I spent several weeks in a psychiatric hospital, feeling lost and ashamed. [read more]
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and DBT
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex mental health condition characterized by pervasive patterns of instability in emotions, relationships, self-image, and behavior. [read more]
Presenting at the SWS Conference
Last week, I had the opportunity to present and participate at the Southwestern School for Behavioral Studies in Phoenix, Arizona. This trip was not just another conference; it was a chance to (once again) meet in person with my virtual consultation team of four years, all of us dedicated DBT therapists. [read more]
Surviving Anticholinergic Toxicity: A Thanksgiving Tale and a Call to Awareness
As Thanksgiving 2023 approached, I was looking forward to the usual traditions: gatherings with loved ones, delicious food, and moments of gratitude. What I didn’t expect was a life-altering experience that taught me a vital lesson about the dangers lurking in our medicine cabinet – Anticholinergic Toxicity, a serious drug interaction. [read more]
The Benefits of Working with a Health Service Psychologist
Choosing a Health Service Psychologist licensed through the National Registry for Health Service Psychologists (NRHSP) can make a significant difference in the quality of care you receive. [read more]
Embracing Sex-Positive Therapy
Sex-affirming, or sex-positive therapy, is an inclusive and holistic approach that respects and celebrates all aspects of human sexuality. [read more]
