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.
Winter is a time when the days get shorter, nights grow longer, and we are enveloped in cold. Winter can also be a time when we prepare for the holidays, which can be joyous, but also pressuring to make them special, or overwhelming with changing routines. This blog post, written by Rae Buchanan, located in Baltimore, Maryland, explores ways to protect and manage our mental health during the holidays.
Living with a chronic illness is challenging, taking a toll on both the body and the mind. Rylee Powers, a dedicated chronic illness therapist in Baltimore, In this blog post, graduate student intern Rylee explores various self-care techniques tailored to people with chronic illnesses, and some of the things that have helped her cope during her journey in being diagnosed with endometriosis.
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.
When we think of a thriving marriage, we picture laughter, shared dreams, and an ease of understanding that feels as natural as breathing. Yet, what often goes unsaid is the backbone of these idyllic scenes: communication. It's not just the frequency of chatter that counts but the depth and quality of the exchanges. Today, let's unlock the lesser-known communication strategies that go beyond the familiar 5:1 positivity ratio, entering into a realm where words build bridges of unwavering connection.
In the ever-evolving landscape of health and wellness, the term "allostatic load" is gaining prominence. At its core, allostatic load refers to the physiological consequences of chronic exposure to fluctuating or heightened neural or neuroendocrine responses, primarily arising from stress. To put it simply, it's the wear and tear on our bodies due to chronic stress. In this article, we will unpack the significance of allostatic load, its various types, and their implications on overall health.
Living with a chronic illness can be a challenging journey, one that often takes a toll not only on the body but also on the mind and spirit. This blog post, written by Rylee Powers, located in Baltimore, Maryland, explores the emotional and psychological impact of chronic illness and how psychotherapy can play a vital role in helping individuals cope and improve their over quality of life.
OCSB, also known as compulsive sexual behaviors or sexual addiction, refers to patterns of sexual behavior that feel distressing, overwhelming, and challenging to manage. These behaviors can manifest as excessive pornography use, compulsive masturbation, infidelity, anonymous sexual encounters, and more. It's important to understand that OCSB is not simply a result of a high sex drive or healthy sexual exploration; it stems from deeper emotional and psychological factors.
Mental health has become a growing concern among artists. This blog post, written by Rae Buchanan, located in Baltimore, Maryland, explores the psychological, mental and physical impacts seen across performers within the artistic industry and ways to explore change, from an individual, community and systematic level. At SBCS, we are committed to serving creatives as part of our nine areas of work. This focus allows us to intentionally serve our creative clients, including musicians, artists, dancers, visionaries, and more. We hold space for those coping with creative chaos and provide support to you through your creative ventures, career pursuits, and challenges.
We hear many stories of marriages ending in divorce and people staying in unhappy marriages or partnerships, and we find ourselves wondering, “what happened? Why do people decide to get divorced or go their separate ways after many years of being together? Couples grieve the loss of the marriage or the partnership they thought they would have and are forced to embrace a new reality. Couples therapy can be the last resort or the last strand of hope to make things work. This blog post, written by Space Between Counseling Services, located in Baltimore, Maryland, explores the common concerns couples reach out for support and seek couples therapy.
