There are some issues that we cannot simply talk ourselves out of. The part of our brain that thinks in verbal language and uses logic to solve problems is distinct from the area of our brain where we process emotions. This means that in order to move past deep-seated trauma and other difficult emotional wounds, we must intervene on the physical and emotional subcortical level as well as on the logical, neocortical level.
Brainspotting (BSP) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy both facilitate emotional processing and help us to see ourselves, others, and the world around us in a new light. Read on to learn more about both modalities and which one may be right for you.
Have you ever labeled yourself as the “black sheep” of your family, workplace, or somewhere where you’re “supposed” to naturally belong? The Black Unicorn highlights how intersectionality is an ongoing process that requires individuals to navigate and balance the multiple dimensions of their identity. Society often places marginalized individuals where they have to prove their worthiness, which can be a burdensome and exhausting experience. This expectation disregards the fullness of their experiences and reduces their identities to a single narrative, overshadowing their resilience, joy, and other aspects of their lives. This blog post, written by Susan Stork, located in Baltimore, Maryland, explores the four main qualities of a black unicorn and how we can harness our individuality into our superpower.
In 2021, Space between counseling posted a blog addressing the national shortage of couple therapists. Did anything change? Are there more couple therapists now? Since the pandemic hit, therapists, counselors, psychologists, and social workers have been seeking to address the concerns and needs of couples with relational concerns. But what happened? Why was the pandemic a catalyst for relational problems? It seems the pandemic, and subsequent shelter-in-place mandates, have served as a catalyst for relational issues and in some way forced couples to spend time with their emotions.
In this blog post, we explore some of the reasons for a shortage in couples therapists, reveal evidence based theoretical orientations for relationship counseling, advise clients on how to search for an ideal fit couples therapist, and provide resources and recommendations for those who are stuck on waiting lists to be seen.
Have you ever had a therapy session when you left feeling exhausted, emotionally drained, and unable to do much for the rest of the day? Has it made you wonder if the therapy isn’t working? In this blog post, written by our Graduate student intern, Sehar Palla, we explore what is therapy hangover, why it happens and some helpful post-therapy self-care strategies.
Dr. Stephen Porges has coined the term “neuroception”, which describes how our neural circuits distinguish whether stimuli are safe or dangerous. While this phenomemon is innate and serves to protect us, sometimes traumatic experiences result in faulty neuroception - which causes individuals to perceive a situation to be harmful, even if there is no presence of a threat. This post explores the implications of polyvagal theory, stress responses, and neuroception.
“Life has evolved in many beautiful and terrifying ways. Honestly, I think it’s impossible to predict how things will unfold. As I process the ending of this chapter, I hold so much compassion for the lost part of me that started this adventure.” Rae Buchanan, located in Baltimore, Maryland reflects on her own self journey and what she learned as graduate student intern.
Parenting is a journey filled with numerous conversations, and perhaps one of the most challenging but crucial discussions to have with your teenager is about sex. This blog post, written by Rylee Powers, located in Baltimore, Maryland, provides a comprehensive guide about the intricacies of approaching the topic of sex with your teenager, offering insights, strategies, and practical tips to foster a healthy, respectful, and understanding environment.
Childfree by choice is a term used to describe people who decide not to have children. Childfree people can feel misunderstood by parents or peers who do have (or desire to have) children. This blog post, written by Rae Buchanan, located in Baltimore, Maryland, navigates some areas on the decision to be childfree or to better understand a loved one’s choice.
Tarot is a therapeutic tool that can contribute to improved mental health through intentional reflection upon life themes, circumstances, and the self. This blog post, written by Rae Buchanan, located in Baltimore, Maryland, explores what tarot is and how it can be a beneficial tool that aids in clients' therapeutic journey, serving as a metaphor for situations and inner experiences.
As the seasons change and we head towards Spring, you may find yourself reflecting on the goals and intentions that you had set for this new year. Some might have worked, and some might not have. Change is hard and uncomfortable, and at times, overwhelming. This blog post, written by Sehar Palla, located in Baltimore, Maryland, highlights motivational interviewing techniques that help us understand our feelings about change, increase motivation, and create a plan that works for us.
This post explores the 7 A’s of healing detailed by Dr. Gabor Maté in his book, book, When the Body Says No: The Cost of Hidden Stress.
In her premier post for the Space Between Counseling Services blog, Kat Filipov, LGPC, helps readers explore how to support their partner(s) who are recently sober. If you are supporting a loved one who has recently decided to discontinue drug or alcohol use, this blog post is for you. Kat reminds us to set boundaries, seek additional support groups, and more.
Why would you and your partner want to do a “Coupleship in Review”? This series of check-in questions is designed to help you invite structure, flow, intimacy, play and secure connection into the future of your relationship. Just being together and enjoying each other is great, but once again Space Between Counseling Services has an invitation for you that will help make your relationship stronger in the years to come.
“Secure Functioning” is being in a relationship that is fully collaborative, fully mutual, + based on justice, fairness, and sensitivity.
— Dr. Stan Tatkin
