Initial Consultation with a Counselor – What to expect ?>

Initial Consultation with a Counselor – What to expect

If you find yourself searching for a counselor it can be worthwhile to find one that offers initial consultations.  The therapeutic relationship is a very important part of the healing process, so it is essential that you feel comfortable in the space and with the person you are going to share your story with. My consultations typically last about 30-45 minutes, however I’ve seen other clinicians offering consultations anywhere from 20 – 50 minutes.  Some counselors will charge for their consultations and…

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Neuroplasticity – The old dog CAN learn new tricks afterall… ?>

Neuroplasticity – The old dog CAN learn new tricks afterall…

In recent findings, researchers have identified that our brains have what is called neuroplasticity.  This is a significant finding for the reason that neuroplasticity means that our brains actually have the ability to change. Neuroplasticity suggests that the brain continually adjusts and reorganizes, by developing new neural connections.  Scientists used to believe that if a particular area of the brain was damaged, the nerve cells could not regenerate or form new connections, and they believed the functions controlled by that…

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Is My Child Depressed? ?>

Is My Child Depressed?

Depression in adults presents itself differently from children and adolescents. A study was conducted in 2007 found that depression in children is typically more serious than in adults.  While both reported and showed that the depression was caused primarily by stress which causes chemical imbalances; children acted out more violently towards others and themselves.  Most adults spoke to family members or friends about their depression while most children spoke to no one. (Perry, 2007) Below are some symptoms to look…

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Am I Depressed? ?>

Am I Depressed?

Ever wonder if you or a loved one is depressed?  Major depressive disorder is a debilitating and serious mental illness that many individuals have endured.  The world health organization has projected that by the year 2020, depression will be second only to heart disease as the leading cause of disability worldwide.   Below are some signs and symptoms of major depressive disorder and the various ways it can be treated. One must experience 5 or more of the following symptoms and…

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5 signs that it’s time to seek help from a professional ?>

5 signs that it’s time to seek help from a professional

Have you found yourself wondering if it’s time to seek professional help for yourself or a loved one?  Here are 5 things to look out for to help you decide if it’s time to find a therapist. 1: Your daily functioning has been impacted Are you having a hard time concentrating at school or at work, and your performance is suffering?  Sometimes we are just having an off day, but if this is happening more frequent than usual and you…

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