depression Archives - Hope Heal Change

The Do’s and Don’t’s of Supporting Your Child Through Their Therapeutic Process

Posted on March 7, 2024July 9, 2024 by hopehealchange

Providing therapy for kids and adolescents is something I look forward to everyday that I come into the office. Sadly, many therapists miss out on that opportunity. If many therapists are being open and honest, a part of the reason they turn away minors is because they don't want to have to manage the parent(s) on the side. However, I find that just about every parent is great at letting me do my job as long as we establish the boundaries and expectations of their child being in therapy with me. They are more concerned with supporting their child during therapy. Many parents ask me, "What should I ask after session?" or "Should I say anything at all about the therapy?" It can be a helpless position--Investing money into the process and then having to be a bit in the dark for a stretch of time. The good news--you'll eventually get feedback in regards to the case and we always begin the process with a parent meeting. But waiting for the feedback requires patience and trust. A parent needs Read more [...]

When It Might Be Time to Seek Counseling

Posted on February 22, 2020July 8, 2024 by hopehealchange

There is nothing wrong with seeking counseling. When we go the gym, we are praised for taking the initiative to work on our fitness. When we are physically injured, we are advised to take the necessary steps to heal-- rest, ice, heat, stretch, etc. Yet, when we are struggling with an emotional or mental health issue, we feel funny about telling people. Ironically, a battle with a mental health concern can cause some serious physical manifestations. It's almost inexplicable how little we have valued our mental health as a society throughout...well...ever! It's not until recently that people in the community, including celebrities and athletes, are having serious discussions about mental health. But how do I know if I should seek counseling? One of the first questions I ask a new client is: "Have you ever been in counseling before?" Regardless of a "yes" or "no" response, I follow it up with my next question. "How long have you been thinking about getting in to talk to somebody?"To Read more [...]