Healing Psych

Dr. Katrina Wood's psychotherapy blog

What a person wants

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In the middle of a heated exchange, words of exasperation directed at you come out something like, "Well, what do you want?!" These words can be stunning to hear, even disorienting. Feelings of anger and hurt surface. The concept of "what you want" feels foreign. But think about this for a moment. What you want does matter, and should be considered. What you want in life, in a relationship; … [Read more...]

The leading edge and the trailing edge

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Here are some affirmations to manage the toxicity of shame. And steps toward effective communications in loving enduring relationships. 1. I remind myself I am a precious, lovable, loving human being. My worth is defined by my values and principles. This stands on a foundation of love, kindness, self-acceptance, tolerance and compassion. 2. I'm aware of a negative shaming voice within my … [Read more...]

Nurturing yourself and your inner child

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Here are some ways to stay in touch with your inner child -- from supportive self-talk to simple behaviors that help in small ways every day. Take a day trip to the beach, lake or river with someone you care for and who cares for you. Take time to watch the water; dream and breathe in the fresh air. Go fishing if you like. Swim in the lake. Feel the elements all around you -- lap them up, take … [Read more...]

Children at risk: signs, signals, support

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None of us wants our child to suffer from depression. No one wants their child to experience suicidal ideation, but unfortunately, some do. Since 2011, the number of children, teens and young adults committing suicide has doubled. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the third leading cause of death in young people between the ages of 10 and 24, resulting in … [Read more...]

Our special tonight is a cell phone

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You're out for a quiet dinner with a friend, only to find the person at the table next to you having a conversation on her cell phone. Is this disruptive? Probably. Annoying? Absolutely. There is something hard to take about sitting next to someone who's chatting away on a phone while you were hoping for a quiet intimate dinner with friends or family. You might say, well, the caller is … [Read more...]