5 Tips for Talking to Your Child About Their Mental Health Struggles

Talking to your child about their mental health can feel overwhelming. As parents, we want to protect our kids, but sometimes, shielding them from difficult conversations about their emotional well-being can do more harm than good. Encouraging open dialogue and creating a supportive environment are essential for helping children navigate their mental health struggles.

Read More
Self Space
Dealing with Anxiety During Back-to-School Season

As back-to-school season approaches, many people—students, parents, and even teachers—can experience a surge of anxiety. Whether it’s the pressure of new academic challenges, social transitions, or simply the shift in routine, this time of year can be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help ease the stress of the new school year:

Read More
Self Space
What Is Psychoanalytic Therapy and How Does It Work?

Psychoanalytic therapy has long been one of the most intriguing and complex approaches to understanding the human mind. Rooted in the work of Sigmund Freud, this form of therapy delves deep into the unconscious to uncover the thoughts, feelings, and memories that influence our behaviors and emotions. But what exactly is psychoanalytic therapy, and how does it work in practice?

Read More
Self Space
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.

Read More
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.

Read More
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:

Read More
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.

Read More
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.

Read More
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.

Read More
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.

Read More
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.

Read More
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.

Read More
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.

Read More
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. 

Read More
Rachel Lund