This page is dedicated to discussing current events and topics of interest relating to psychotherapy, counseling, and other advice and help for issues relating to anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationships, and sexual issues. Please feel free to contact me with questions or comments. This page will be updated often, so please check back frequently. Click on the title to be directed to the article you are interested in reading about below.
Introverts have the same probability of living content lives as do their extroverted peers. For some, introversion is a strength that can lead to great success. However, if you are an introvert that tries to cram yourself into an extroverted place, the incongruence can lead to negative feelings such as
After a relationship ends, the world can get quite hazy. Remnants of the relationship continue to last in your mind and heart. The primary focus of this phase after a relationship needs to be regaining your focus. Re-establishing your personal goals and giving yourself time for your mind to clear
Overcoming an addiction is largely learning how to control the behavior itself. However further recovery consists of changing ineffective interpersonal patterns. This list addresses these commonly overlooked, yet important skills. 1. Listen to others. When dealing with an addictive behavior, it can be difficult to keep yourself from getting defensive
With the latest version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manuel of Mental Disorders (DSM) about to be released, there is criticism and discussion about the changes that have been made. In the latest version, one of the most discussed changes is that the language for the diagnosis of Gender Dysphoria
In my Dallas therapy practice, I have had the opportunity of working with many gay men who are dealing with a diagnosis of HIV. Some have had this diagnosis for many years, while others are dealing with newly being diagnosed. The initial shock from hearing this news can lead to
This is Autism Awareness month, which is about raising awareness about Autistic Spectrum Disorders, and clearing up common misconceptions. One of the most common misconceptions about those who are living with Autistic Spectrum Disorders is that they are unempathetic and incapable of caring about others, yet this could not be
When we feel anxious or depressed, we quickly lose attract of where we are. Mentally, we can end up trapped in either the past or the future. Learning from the past and setting goals for the future can be extremely beneficial. However, if someone gets stuck in lessons and planning,
Running from shame is understandable. This avoidance can initially help you cope with the discomfort of the pain that underlies it. Facing it head-on is uncomfortable and intimidating. Thus, it seems like a “no-brainer” to choose the path that is initially less painful. However, with continued avoidance, the pain can
I finally watched the documentary Bully, which had received a fair amount of attention documenting a serious issue. This documentary follows several children and their families, as well as school officials, to see how they are dealing with bullying in their communities. Bully brings attention to a serious topic, and
Update: This was initially a written response to Dr. Ley and a specific Huffington Post video that he had taken part of. When I initially wrote this article, I was exposed to David Ley’s perspective on sex addiction, and felt it was important to share my perspective on what I