I have given 2020 many names, but my latest is “a year of reflection.” We have found ways to navigate what originally seemed like impossible circumstances. We have dealt with overwhelming emotions and goals that were not forecasted in our New Year’s resolutions. While it is important to grieve the loss of so many experiences that were unable to continue, it is also helpful to use this time as an opportunity to reflect and grow.
Read MoreWhen you look back on your teenage years, do you have memories of confidence, fun, happiness, and connection? Yes? Well lucky you! For most, the teenage years are a pretty rough time riddled with conflict and shame. There is always conflict with parents who are trying to do their best, with friends who are doing whatever it takes to survive, and within our inner selves as we begin the journey of figuring out who we are and what this life is really all about.
Read MoreThere’s a funny quote going around social media that states something like: “We are all doing the best we can'“ is my response to just about everything these day... Whether you told me you chugged a bottle of wine, had cereal for dinner, robbed a bank, or skipped a shower…” I
Read MoreWith COVID-19 cases still surging in several states and the Houston area, you and your partner are likely still spending a great deal of one on one time together! Here’s to trying out our highlighted position of the month, in order to help ease the stress of quarantine. The two of you might feel more comfortable following the recommendations that have been posted for Sex and the Coronavirus Pandemic (found here). If you or your partner are not feeling well, you might consider delaying sexually engagement.
Read MoreWhen clients present with symptoms of anxiety, my immediate reaction is to let them know that they are not alone. I normalize the heck out of any shame or confusion and commend them for listening to their bodies and getting the little bit of help they need.
Read MoreSelf-reflection. Two words that can seem intriguing, complex, and daunting when put together. Self-reflection is the act of “meditating or thinking about one’s character, actions, and motives”(Webster Dictionary). Reflection allows for growth.
Read MoreWe live in a social society. We live in an era of being busy. All. The. Time. Developing technology allows us to do a million things at once. We can send a text, order dinner, and check out at the grocery store all while taking a phone call and tending to a child. As we have continued to expand the idea of multi-tasking and operating at lightning speed, we are starting to see that this form of existence is not sustainable. We will crash.
Read MoreThis message is for anyone that interacts with little ones, not just parents. Teachers, principals, babysitters, coaches, aunts, uncles, mentors of any kind, I am talking to you. Kids are always watching and judging your behaviors. They look to you for personal acceptance and guidance on how to treat others. They need you to validate their confusing experience and help regulate their scared and anxious emotions. When it comes to race, do not wait for kids to bring it up.
Read MoreDuring this time little ones may be having trouble identifying and expressing feelings. You may notice an increase in tantrums, anxiety and fighting between siblings. It’s always important to remember that all behavior is communication.
Read MoreI want to let every parent know that these times are hard and to be okay if your day doesn’t go smoothly. Kids are bored, parents are overwhelmed, and everyone is stressed. I wanted to create a list of things to do with your children to help ease some of the stress, but please know it’s okay if you just make it through the day with love, screen time, and survival.
Read MoreI’m not here to shout toxic positivity your way. My entire body recognizes the magnitude of the pandemic- from grief of losing loved ones, to loss of life’s milestones, to job insecurity of loss, we are hurting. However, I do want to discuss the importance a few of my favorite things resiliency, gratitude and radical acceptance.
Read MoreWe are collectively living through a once in a 3 or 4 generation phenomenon, a pandemic. It’s overwhelming to consciously know we are living in extraordinary times. The profoundness of this hits me in waves : how this will challenge us as communities and individuals, the social and economic disparities that it will (and has) so painfully revealed.
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