Assessing our sources and symptoms of stress provides a useful framework for understanding our stressors and our abilities to cope. It may be daunting to try to “unpack” all of the ways in which we feel stressed. However, once we embark upon this task together, my clients often find that this process can provide some relief and improve confidence in their abilities […]
In my practice, I am acutely aware of many different ways, both physically and emotionally, in which my clients experience stress. Understanding the mind-body connection provides a useful framework for understanding our stressors and our abilities to cope. Moreover, I have found that taking the time to explain the science behind often prescribed relaxation strategies […]
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based treatment for a wide variety of mental health challenges and is often considered a “gold standard” treatment for depression and anxiety. As its name suggests, CBT works to systematically evaluate how our thoughts and behaviors work together to influence how we feel. By understanding what we are thinking […]
My interest in the mind-body connection played an important role in pursuit of a career in clinical psychology. My first job after earning my undergraduate degree was at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, where I worked as a research assistant on a study investigating the long-term effects of retinoblastoma (a pediatric cancer of the eye) on […]
What is Cognitive Restructuring? Cognitive Restructuring is a fundamental component of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and refers to our ability to assess and challenge automatic negative thoughts that contribute to heightened distress. Not to be mistaken with simply “thinking positively,” when done effectively, this skill allows us to cope with our stressors by balancing our thoughts in […]
What is Cognitive Restructuring? Building Awareness of Automatic Negative Thoughts Cognitive restructuring is another core component of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Cognitive restructuring refers to our ability to assess and challenge automatic negative thoughts that contribute to heightened distress. Not to be mistaken with simply “thinking positively,” when done effectively, cognitive restructuring allows us to cope […]
What is Cognitive Restructuring? Cognitive restructuring is a crucial component of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Cognitive restructuring refers to our ability to assess and challenge automatic negative thoughts that contribute to heightened distress. Not to be mistaken with simply “thinking positively,” when done effectively, cognitive restructuring allows us to cope with our stressors by balancing our thoughts in […]
The costs and benefits of psychotherapy are some of the most important things to consider when thinking about engaging in mental health treatment. In this post, I attempt to briefly summarize the various things to consider before committing to a course of psychotherapy. It is important to understand, however, that ultimately the costs and benefits […]
As a result of COVID-19, there has been a sharp increase in the availability of psychotherapy services through telehealth. Social distancing guidelines and concern regarding the physical safety of psychotherapy clients have brought on a positive and effective evolution in accessibility to mental health services. Although, broadly speaking, this is beneficial, we must also be […]
I never planned on expanding my practice to Coronado during a global pandemic. Just a few months ago, I was busy carefully laying out detailed plans and timelines to grow my practice here. And then, suddenly, all these plans came to a halt. My concerns quickly went from understanding how to construct a soundproof room […]
