Tips & Tools for Mental Health Professionals

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Technique: The Observing Self

Original article on pro.psychcentral.com. Do you ever focus on looking AT your thoughts rather than FROM your thoughts? If so, you are practicing one of the cornerstones of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy developed by Dr. Stephen Hayes. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, known as ACT, combines CBT principles with mindfulness techniques. In a process called Cognitive… Read More »

Using a Calming Box for Self-Soothing and Emotional Regulation

Original article on pro.psychcentral.com. As a therapist, I have always been a big fan of offering my clients “hands on” practical strategies that can help them self-soothe immediately in times of anger and emotional distress. I refer to these self-soothing boxes by names such as a Calming Box or Coping Skills Toolbox. Self-soothing boxes are… Read More »

CBT Technique: Using the Triple Column Technique to Change Your Thoughts To Change Your Life!

Original article on pro.psychcentral.com. One of the cornerstones of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) is to help individuals identify their negative and irrational ways of thinking. Cognitive Errors, also known as Cognitive Distortions, are unhealthy thinking habits that lead to most common mental health problems, including anxiety, depression and other mood disorders. The concept of Cognitive… Read More »

Three Self-Esteem Boosting Tips and Activities

Original article on pro.psychcentral.com It has never failed to amaze me in my many years as a therapist that no matter what type of problem a client presents – whether it be depression, anxiety, relationship problems, or stress management issues, the crux of the problems almost invariably lies in the shadow of low self-esteem. Self-esteem… Read More »

Learn to Forgive: 10 Tips and Quick Quiz

One of the most difficult burdens that weigh heavily on many of us is being weighed down by bitterness and grudges. Sometimes we see the tormenter as no one other than ourselves, and we get emotionally paralyzed by self-blame and guilt, crippling self-esteem and limiting optimism about the future. Lacking forgiveness  for the wrongs committed… Read More »