When we hear the word "hypnosis," most of us first think of a gold watch swaying back and forth. An intense hypnotherapist stares into the eyes of the subject, slowly and steadily willing his patient into a trance. The patient surrenders control, eyes closed, oblivious of the surroundings or her behavior. The experience and the control remain in the hands of the hypnotherapist. Such a … [Read more...]
Taking the panic out of pandemic
The word pandemic conjures up a host of overwhelming thoughts and feelings. The idea that a virus could be so enormous, so powerful, that it would pose a global threat is something only imagined in movies and sci-fi novels ... until now. While history shows us that numerous parts of the world previously suffered life-threatening and life-taking viruses, this is the first time in this … [Read more...]
When suicide comes ‘out of the blue’
One of the most treacherous terrains mental health clinicians navigate comes when a client struggles with severe depression, yet disavows any suggestions of suicide ideation. "Depression, yes. Would I take my life … never!" the client protests. And then one day, "out of the blue," the client completes the ultimate act of self harm. Everyone, including the therapist, is flabbergasted. … [Read more...]
For the love of pets
Bringing home a new puppy just makes our hearts melt. We break into laughter, sometimes with tears of joy, as this new little family member wiggles and wags everywhere, licking everyone with sheer happiness, eager to be hugged, petted and most of all to play. Puppies, kittens, rabbits, reptiles, pot belly pigs, horses, guinea pigs ... whatever your choice, these animals can play a profound role … [Read more...]
The Legacy: Time to deal with it.
How many times have you heard someone say, "I'll never be like my father" (or mother). Maybe someone said to you, "You know, your grandfather had a temper just like yours." How shocked you were to hear such a false accusation. You protest, "Not me," or, "I’m never going to raise my children the way I was raised. ... "I will never be impatient like my father, or say those mean things to … [Read more...]