by Alena Gerst, LCSW, RYT Mental health providers are as unique as any human or animal. But one thing most of us can agree on? The importance of de-stigmatizing mental illness so more people can get the support they need. And we have come a LONG way! But there’s a dark downside to this de-stigmatization, […]
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Advice is cheap. Advice puts the onus on the listener and not the speaker. Advice is often a quick fix—a mere Band-Aid on a wound that needs more persistent care. I can usually detect someone’s frustration when, as their therapist, I pointedly do not offer advice. One of the skills therapists learn early in their
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One of the things I most enjoy about my work as a therapist is the diversity of my clients. I learn new things every day from a broad cross-section of people with differing careers; socio-economic backgrounds; medical conditions; racial, ethnic, and religious differences; genders; sexualities; and family histories. But even with a group as diverse
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We all have a victim story. Blame can be laid upon not only strangers, but frequently upon parents, partners, friends, teachers, coworkers, neighbors, and even the government for whatever situation brings discomfort.
As a therapist, many of the people I sit with have a story to tell. Often that story boils down to being victimized in some way.
What Story Are You Telling Yourself? Read More »
Originally published on August 9, 2016 • By Alena Gerst, LCSW, RYT, GoodTherapy.org, Topic Expert Contributor Many of us spend a significant amount of time and effort on how we appear on the outside. We get haircuts; buy clothes, jewelry, and cosmetics; and even opt for expensive and painful medical procedures to maintain an image
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If she were handed more time, like an unrecovered addict with a sudden windfall she would fill up her extra hours as quickly as they were bestowed upon her. What she needs goes beyond more time.
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I had fantasies of her joining us for a late dinner or coffee, and telling me all about her trajectory in the business, offering advice and guidance. But instead she said we could walk her to her car.
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