Is Seasonal Affective Disorder a Real Diagnosis?
Wondering if you have Seasonal Affective Disorder as the days get shorter? Here's what most people don't know: SAD is no longer an official diagnosis that therapists use. But that doesn't mean your symptoms aren't real. In this post, I break down what's really happening when you feel low every fall and winter, how to tell if it's true seasonal depression or something else entirely, and the exact strategies I use in therapy to help people stop "just getting through winter" and actually thrive.
Tips for staying sane this season
Don't let the season & holiday stress derail your progress. Discover practical strategies to stay healthy, set boundaries, and maintain your momentum through the season. Make sure you can start January energized, not exhausted and starting from scratch.
Is AI Replacing Therapists?
AI is changing everything… even the world of mental health. But can artificial intelligence really replace a therapist? In this post, I share how AI is impacting the therapy field, the ethical questions it raises, and why I believe human connection will always matter most. You’ll also learn how I built my own “digital twin,” LORAI, to show how AI can support mental health… not replace it.
EMDR Therapy in Florida: Everything You Want to Know About Healing Trauma
Could EMDR be the therapy that helps you move past traumatic memories or the thoughts that are holding you back? Discover how this powerful treatment works, who it helps, and how to find the right EMDR therapist in Florida. You’ll also get ways to tailor your search to your area if you live outside of Florida.
6 Common Struggles Today's Teens Face (and how therapy can help)
Teens today face unique mental health challenges like bullying, social pressure, and anxiety. Learn about six common struggles and how therapy can provide the support teens need to thrive.
How to stop overeating: when willpower isn't "enough"
Overeating isn’t just about lack of willpower - it’s influenced by emotions, habits, and nutrition. Discover effective strategies to understand triggers, build daily structure, and regain control over your eating behaviors.
5 Strategies to Cope with Grief & Loss This Holiday Season
The holidays can intensify feelings of grief and loss. Learn 5 compassionate strategies to navigate this season, including setting realistic expectations, creating new traditions, leaning on your support system, practicing self-compassion, and supporting others.
a more comprehensive guide to goal setting
Achieve your best self by setting meaningful goals that consider your values, past experiences, confidence, and daily habits. This comprehensive guide goes beyond SMART goals to help you create a personalized roadmap for lasting growth and success.
Impact of Chronic Illness on Mental Health: a personal journey
Leaya here.
Living with chronic illness deeply impacts mental health - from grief and anger to anxiety and overwhelm. In this personal journey, Leaya shares how chronic illness affects emotional well-being and offers hope for managing the mental health challenges that come with it.
Understanding Emotional Eating
Emotional eating is a common struggle that impacts mental health, self-esteem, and weight goals. Discover how therapy and mindfulness can help you regain control.
Items for your home to support mental health
Your home can be a sanctuary for mental health. Learn about easy-to-find items and habits. Things like plants, aromatherapy, lighting, and hobbies all have a place in supporting emotional wellness.
What do Values & Goals have to do with mental health?
Understanding the connection between your values and goals is key to improving mental health. Aligning these supports self-esteem, clarity, resilience, and well-being.
What is Bariatric Counseling?
Bariatric counseling supports clients, both pre and post weight loss surgery, or for weight management by addressing emotional, behavioral, and lifestyle changes.
2023 Summer Reading - mental health books for your list
These 10 therapist-recommended summer reads cover mental health, trauma, anxiety, personal growth, and healing…with a few light fiction picks for balance.
Figuring out your feelings
Your thoughts and feelings are more connected than you think. This blog walks you through simple steps to understand your emotions, track your patterns, and take back control of your mindset.
How to set resolutions… and follow through!
Studies show that most "resolutioners" begin to struggle with New Year Resolutions around January 12th.
If you're having a difficult time with resolutions or goals or accomplishing tasks, it can be a sign of many things. Buuuut, and stay with me here, let's focus on the action-taking!
What is Self Esteem?
Confidence is what you do — self-esteem is how you see yourself. This post explores the difference and gives 3 simple ways to build your self-esteem starting now.
How to make decisions and stop second-guessing yourself
Anxiety can make even simple decisions feel overwhelming. If you find yourself stuck in a cycle of second-guessing, this post offers strategies to help you trust your gut and move forward with confidence.
When is the best time to see a therapist?
You’re not alone… we have A LOT going on in our lives. You don't have to be experiencing a catastrophic event or in crisis. People see therapists for a variety of reasons!