Coping with Anxiety | World of Psychology

One of my earlier blog posts was also published on the World of Psychology Blog, see it below:



Coping with Anxiety | World of Psychology



Brought to you by www.thrivecounselingcenterllc.com.  Thrive Counseling Center LLC provides therapy and counseling to individuals, families, couples, and groups in Metairie, LA.

8 Lessons From Pets: Attention for Your Partner AND Yourself | World of Psychology

8 Lessons From Pets: Attention for Your Partner AND Yourself | World of Psychology



Fun article, thanks www.psychcentral.com!



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New Beginnings & Transitional Times

“When one door closes another door opens; but we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us.” – Alexander Graham Bell

New beginnings are often exciting, yet terrifying in people's lives because no one knows what the future holds. Behind the door to your new beginning is unlimited possibilities: successes and failures, ups and downs, and even some smiles and frowns.  The past is sometimes easier to reflect upon because it is finite, it is done and it cannot offer new surprises in your lives.  The past in a sense is easier to control; whereas, the present and future seems mystical and uncontrollable.  Since you do not know what's behind the next door or written in the next chapter of your life, it is important to utilize transitional life tools at these pinnacle times in your life.  These tools give us the strength and courage to aid us in adjusting to a new chapter in our lives.

Just remember the 4Be'S as your Transitions Tool Kit:

• Be Positive: Sometimes you may have to "fake it till you make it" with a positive attitude in a transitional time.  A new chapter can be terrifying which brings in negative self-talk.  It is common to have doubts and hesitation; however you cannot let these thoughts win the battle and defeat you.  You may want to think of a positive slogan to get you through the tough transition.  For instance, "I've got this!" may provide you with an additional boost of confidence and encouragement.
  
• Be Open:  In a transitional time, it is important to be open to new people and new experiences.  To adjust to a new job, new partner, etc. it takes an open-mind.  You cannot compare your past to your future.  For instance, if you are in a new relationship, you cannot compare your new partner to your past idealized partner because if you do this you are setting yourself up for failure!  Your present and future offers you the opportunity to see things in a new light or try things out in a different way.  The hard part about this task is that it takes a certain level of vulnerability.  If you allow yourself to be vulnerable and open, you will learn more about yourself and grow in new ways that will strengthen your character.
  
• Be Realistic: You may have lofty goals  for what your future may hold, which is great as long as they are also realistic.When you enter a new chapter, it is important to have measurable and realistic stepping stones to get you to your future goals.  For instance, if you are starting a new job, you may have the goal of getting an "outstanding" self-evaluation at your 3-month performance evaluation.  Now that you have established that goal, it is important to break down how you are going to achieve this through your everyday activities.  For example, you will be on time everyday this week and you will finish the project a day ahead of the original deadline.  By setting realistic and measurable goals, you are more likely to achieve them.
  
• Be Persistent:  Sometimes it just takes time (which can be tough if you're impatient!)  New beginnings are a test of will-power, patience and character.  A new chapter may have 4 or 5 bad openings that you as the author rip out, crumble up, and toss out; only to start again from the beginning.  You need to give yourself the freedom to fall, stand up, brush off, and try again.  It is only through these mistakes that you can learn how to do things differently and more effectively.  Persistence pays off because it creates dedication and sweat equity.  At transitional times, think about the Pareto Principle, or the 80-20 rule, where 80% of the results comes from 20% of the effort.  Where is your effort?  Are you utilizing your effort effectively? How can you streamline your efforts to maximize results? Through awareness and persistence, you can tackle the challenges of a new beginning.
  
• Seek Support:  Whether you just graduated from college, you are a new divorcee, or you made a career change later in life, everyone needs support from loved ones when transitioning into a new chapter.  Sometimes you may shy away from support because you feel like a failure; however this is often the time you need support the most.  Seek support from your family, friends, and colleagues.  These people are important in your life and want to help!  Through talking to others you can gain companionship and it helps at times when you feel like "you're the only one going through this" (whatever the "this" maybe).  If you feel like you need additional support because your support system "just doesn't understand" then seek out counseling as a resource to add to your support system.

Brought to you by www.thrivecounselingcenterllc.com. 

Fruit Group Therapy & Group Therapy at Thrive Counseling Center LLC

We can all use a little humor sometimes! Enjoy this cartoon from www.psychotherapy.net by Victor Yalom.

Group Counseling

Group Counseling is a wonderful opportunity to be a part of a unique counseling experience. Group Counseling is usually compromised of 6-8 clients who meet face to face with a counselor to talk about their concerns. Group members can share their own experiences and learn from peers at the same time. The content of group counseling is confidential and members must agree to not discuss the group outside the counseling office. Group therapy works because it gives us a safe environment to discuss our struggles and try out new experiences.

Upcoming Scheduled Groups at Thrive Counseling Center LLC:
Self-Esteem Group for Adolescent Girls (Click Here for Flyer): This is a 5 week group for adolescent girls between the ages of 13-16. The focus of the group is on defining and building self-esteem through activities and group discussion. Self-awareness, resiliency, stress management, problem-solving, and self-acceptance will be the areas explored. Dates: June 24, July 1, July 8, July 15, and July 22 from 4:00 to 5:20 pm. The cost of the group is $200.00. To register, call Kellie Giorgio Camelford at 504-390-9538 or email her at kcamelford@thrivecounselingcenterllc.com.

Transitions Group (Click Here for Flyer): This is a 6 week group for students entering into either the 8th or 9th grade as a first time high school student. The group will cover academics, study skills, social skills, social skills, resisting peer pressue, and resolving conflict. Dates: July 29, August 5, August 12, August 19, August 26, and September 2 from 4:00 to 5:20 pm. The group cost is $250.00. To register, call Kellie Giorgio Camelford at 504-390-9538 or email her at kcamelford@thrivecounselingcenterllc.com.

Available Groups by Request at Thrive Counseling Center LLC:  Once 3 clients sign-up for a particular group, the group will run on a weekly basis and the schedule will be set to meet the group's needs.  If you have an interest in one of the below groups, please call so that I can put you on a group waiting list or we can discuss individual counseling until a group is available.

Infertility Support Group: This group is associated with infertility and the exploration of infertility treatment. The purpose of the group is to provide a supportive environment where experiences can be shared. Topics may include self-esteem, sexuality, intimacy, and self-identity as related to the impact of infertility. 

Active Parenting: This is a 6 week course based on the Active Parenting Series by Dr. Popkin. The series will cover ways to discipline your child without violence, how to build courage and character, how to deal with problems and risks, and much more. The course is a blend of videos, activities, and discussion. 

 
Weight Loss Group for Adults: This group combines behavioral techniques for weight loss along with support from a caring counselor. Come learn techniques about how your thoughts and behaviors can affect your eating habits and gain support from others with similar challenges and goals.

Overweight Adolescents Support Group: This group is for adolescents struggling with issues related to weight. The group will focus on self-esteem, self-acceptance, connectedness, and overall emotional well-being. The group is not intended for weight loss or management, but to assist in coping strategies.

To learn more about group counseling at Thrive Counseling Center LLC and to check availability for upcoming groups, please call me at 504-390-9538 or email me at kcamelford@thrivecounselingcenterllc.com for more information. 

Brought to you by www.thrivecounselingcenterllc.com.

Upcoming Summer Groups: Self-Esteem for Adolescent Girls & Transitions to High School Group

Upcoming Summer Groups at Thrive Counseling Center LLC:

Self-Esteem Group for Adolescent Girls (Click Here for Flyer): This is a 5 week group for adolescent girls between the ages of 13-16. The focus of the group is on defining and building self-esteem through activities and group discussion. Self-awareness, resiliency, stress management, problem-solving, and self-acceptance will be the areas explored. Dates: June 24, July 1, July 8, July 15, and July 22 from 4:00 to 5:20 pm. The cost of the group is $200.00.  To register, call Kellie Giorgio Camelford at 504-390-9538 or email her at kcamelford@thrivecounselingcenterllc.com.

Transitions Group (Click Here for Flyer): This is a 6 week group for students entering into either the 8th or 9th grade as a first time high school student. The group will cover academics, study skills, social skills, social skills, resisting peer pressue, and resolving conflict. Dates: July 29, August 5, August 12, August 19, August 26, and September 2 from 4:00 to 5:20 pm. The group cost is $250.00. To register, call Kellie Giorgio Camelford at 504-390-9538 or email her at kcamelford@thrivecounselingcenterllc.com.

Brought to you by www.thrivecounselingcenterllc.com 

Boundary Issues in Counseling: Multiple Roles and Responsibilities, 3rd Edition

The book Boundary Issues in Counseling: Multiple Roles and Responsibilities, Third Edition by Barbara Herlihy and Gerald Corey is now available for counselors, counseling interns, and counseling students.  I am happy to have been a contributing author to this book regarding the topic of school counseling and social media.  Click on the link to see information about the book: http://isgweb.counseling.org/ISGweb/Purchase/ProductDetail.aspx?Product_code=78090

This is a great resource for counselors struggling with ethical issues regarding the various roles and responsibilities counselors may or may not have to their clients.

Enjoy!

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7 Things Mindful People Do Differently Every Day and How to Begin Now! | Mindfulness and Psychotherapy

7 Things Mindful People Do Differently Every Day and How to Begin Now! | Mindfulness and Psychotherapy



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Ted Talk by Kelly McGonigal: How to make stress your friend

25 Simple Ways to Improve Your Relationships at Work & Home | The Psychology of Success

Another Sunday night and most of us are dreading the upcoming work week... Read these tips to help you improve work relationships so that you'll enjoy your work environment.



25 Simple Ways to Improve Your Relationships at Work & Home | The Psychology of Success



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