The Connection Between Perimenopause and Mental Health

As women transition into midlife, they undergo hormonal shifts that can have a profound impact on their mental and emotional well-being. During perimenopause, the phase leading up to menopause, levels of estrogen and progesterone fluctuate, which may affect not just physical health, but mental health as well. Let’s explore ways to navigate this challenging but natural transition.

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Self Space
What to Say When Someone Loses a Parent

Losing a parent is a profound and heart-wrenching experience. Whether you're a close friend, family member, or acquaintance of someone who is grieving the loss of a parent, finding the right words to offer comfort can feel daunting. The intention is always to support, but sometimes, the fear of saying the wrong thing can leave us paralyzed.

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Self Space
How to Evaluate your Progress in Therapy

Therapy can be a transformative journey, but it’s not always easy to measure progress. We aren’t closed, linear systems and our progress is rarely a clear upwards path. Instead, it often looks more like rolling hills that trend upwards overtime, but can be marked by both progress and regressions as we work through both the dynamics that have shaped our past, along with the stuff of daily life in the present. Here are some practical ways to try to get a clearer view of your progress in therapy:

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Self Space
The Healing Power of Art Therapy

Art can serve as a bridge to our inner world, bypassing words and unlocking a sense of playfulness, curiosity, and spontaneity often buried beneath adult responsibilities and the relentless pursuit of perfection. Through the creative process, we can tap into our emotions, using imagery and metaphor to solve problems and gain fresh perspectives. Here’s a glimpse into how a typical art therapy session might unfold.

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Becca Trayner
EMDR vs Traditional Talk Therapy: What's the Difference?

Finding the right therapy can be transformative. Among the myriad options, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and traditional talk therapy are two widely recognized approaches. While both aim to improve mental well-being, they differ significantly in methods and applications. Let's explore the key differences to help you determine which might be the best fit for you.

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Self Space
How Parental Anxiety Impacts a Child's Emotional Well-Being

Parenting comes with countless joys, responsibilities, and stresses. Among these stresses, anxiety stands out as a significant concern that can have a profound impact not only on the parents themselves but also on their children. Understanding how parental anxiety affects a child's emotional well-being is crucial for fostering a healthy and nurturing environment.

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Self Space
How Does Therapy Help in the Treatment of Depression

Depression is a complex mental health condition that can be debilitating, but various therapeutic approaches have been shown to help. Understanding these methods can empower individuals to seek the right kind of support. Here, we explore some of the most effective therapeutic approaches for treating depression.

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Self Space
7 Tips for Finding a Therapist in Kirkland, WA

Finding the right therapist can be a crucial step towards improving your mental health and well-being. In Kirkland, there are numerous resources and strategies to help you connect with a therapist who meets your needs. Whether you’re seeking help for anxiety, depression, or any other mental health concern, these 7 tips will guide you through the process of finding a qualified and compatible therapist nearby.

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Self Space
5 Ways to Handle Lying in a Relationship

Lying can erode trust and create emotional distance in any relationship. Whether it's a small white lie or a more significant deception, handling it thoughtfully and effectively is crucial for maintaining a healthy relationship. Here are five ways to address and manage lying in a relationship.

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Self Space
The Factors Contributing to Waking with Stress and Anxiety

Waking up in the middle of the night with a racing heart and a mind full of worries can be incredibly distressing. This kind of nighttime anxiety can disrupt your sleep cycle, leaving you exhausted and overwhelmed the next day. Understanding the factors contributing to these nighttime awakenings can help you address them and improve your overall sleep quality and mental well-being.

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Self Space
5 Indicators Therapy Might be Useful for Your Child

As parents, we all want the best for our children, ensuring they grow up healthy in every way - physically, emotionally and relationally. However, it can sometimes be challenging to distinguish between typical childhood behavior and signs that your child may need professional help. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your child's well-being. 

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Rachel Lund
What to Expect When Your Child Starts Therapy

While it can feel nerve-racking for parents to reach out to a therapist, helping your child participate in therapy is ultimately an act of love and respect. By creating this space for them early in their lives, you are providing them the opportunity to be more successful later on. Knowing what to expect can help you and your child feel more prepared and confident to begin this therapy journey.

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How to Support Your Child When They are Experiencing Anxiety

As a parent, seeing your child struggle with anxiety can be heart-wrenching.  Especially for those of us parents who also experience high anxiety, it can be hard to know who to soothe first!   Anxiety in children can manifest in various ways, such as excessive worry, fear, restlessness, or physical symptoms like headaches and stomachaches.

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Rachel LundKids
How to Recognize the Signs of Depression in Yourself or a Loved One

Depression is a common yet serious condition that affects millions of people. It can be incredibly debilitating, impacting every facet of life, from relationships to professional performance. This guide aims to help you identify symptoms of depression in yourself or someone close to you, so that you can find timely and effective support and care.

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Self Space