Discussion Forum (20)

The ABC’s of Psychotherapy

Deciding to pursue therapy, finding a therapist, making that first call and keeping that appointment are, from my perspective, huge and courageous steps. Moreover, these initial steps are usually taken partially in the dark, so to speak. You do not know this person, you have no clue as to whether they can help you, and [...]

Home for the Holidays

Thousands of people travel to see their families during the holidays. These family gatherings often include meeting new arrivals to the family and spending time with people we only see rarely. However, interactions between family members can range from affectionate to strained. How is that, when we go home for the holidays, [...]

Understanding Female Sexuality

Our sexuality is something that we, as women, have a right to enjoy! Our sexuality is an important part of who we are. Sexual feelings and responses are a central expression of our emotional, physical and spiritual selves. To quote Our Bodies, Ourselves, “Sexuality is so much more than intercourse. Our sexuality belongs first and foremost [...]

Depression Doesn’t Lie

One of the things I continue to be impressed with despite my 30 years of practice is how harsh we are toward ourselves when we are struggling in some way emotionally. It is really striking when you stop to think about it. Our response to our struggles is much kinder and wiser when we encounter [...]

Women’s Issues

Some struggles that women experience are common to many women, and can therefore be attributed or understood in this larger context of what it means, biologically and socially to be female. A psychologist informed about these issues is in a better position to understand women’s experiences and know how to help them. Psychotherapy can help [...]

Growing Through Divorce

Divorce ranks just above death in severity of stress and is often combined with other stressors, such as marital discord, serious financial problems, a move, single parenting, multiple losses and litigation, all at once.  It’s a life cycle crisis that presents a crucial period of increased vulnerability and heightened potential. With consciousness, the process can [...]

Relationships as a Spiritual Path

The concept of spirituality is derived from “spiritus,” meaning vitality or the breath of life. That force awakens us like an electric charge. Staying connected to that energy strengthens and enlivens our soul. Our relationships present a constant opportunity to tap into this power. We can practice spiritual ideals, such as faith, truth, surrender, patience and [...]

Contrary to Widely Held Beliefs, Romance Can Last in Long-term Relationships, Say Researchers

WASHINGTON – Romance does not have to fizzle out in long-term relationships and progress into a companionship/friendship-type love, a new study has found. Romantic love can last a lifetime and lead to happier, healthier relationships. “Many believe that romantic love is the same as passionate love,” said lead researcher Bianca P. Acevedo, PhD, then at Stony [...]

The Connections between Emotional Stress, Trauma and Physical Pain

Studies have shown that chronic pain might not only be caused by physical injury but also by stress and emotional issues. In particular, people who have experienced trauma and suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) are often at a higher risk to develop chronic pain. Chronic pain is defined as prolonged [...]

Rage, Shame and the Death of Love

Concealed deep within the human psyche lies an enduring world, a kingdom which exists and yet is separate from our awareness.  Within this shrouded domain reside the remnants of intensely painful experiences that were propelled out of sight for safe keeping.  These imprints that were thrown into the unconscious eventually form into a structure that [...]