We all have urges, and we are able to control them for the most part. However, impulsive behavior becomes problematic when it is harmful to us or others. They can range from lack of patience, procrastination, ADHD, substance abuse, overeating, to over spending. Learning how to be aware of and managing these urges are important ...
I’m guessing most of you have heard the term codependency. You might wonder if you are codependent in your relationship. One of the signs is that you put your partner's needs above your own. You rely on this other person to the extent that you sacrifice your own boundaries and identity. People who are codependent ...
If you have not been personally impacted by substance abuse or alcoholism, then my guess is you know someone who has. It becomes even more challenging if a dual diagnosis (substance abuse and mental illness) is involved. You want to help the person yet may be more likely to enable their behavior because their mental ...
Substance abuse is something that cuts across all races and classes in society. It takes the lives of over 11 million people each year. I’m guessing you, someone in your family or a close friend have struggled. You can see the destruction it does to families and relationships. We can’t predict ahead of time that ...
What is self-sabotage? Do you self-sabotage? You are most likely your own worst enemy. Do you say things to yourself that you would never say to others? Many people are much harder on themselves. Perhaps you are someone who self-sabotages. This can get in the way of accomplishing your goals and impact your job and ...
I just watched an amazing TED talk on the Power of Addiction. Dr. Gabor Mates does an excellent job of explaining what many people have wondered, and that is, why addiction occurs. Many clients struggle with this. It’s so interesting and sad to see the addict’s brain at work. The person knows cognitively that the ...
Are you an enabler? Are you wondering why there are people in your life who are substance abusers (drugs or alcohol)? Do you find yourself rescuing people who are using? Of course you do these things in the beginning because it’s natural to want to help the people you love. Perhaps they just keep getting ...
Whenever a therapist treats a client, the least restrictive environment is always what is desired. However, there are times when client’s struggles are so great, or the client is in crisis, that a higher level of care is needed. These are in the form of intensive outpatient treatment programs or residential programs. I had the ...
Substance abuse is rampant. It seems like it affects every family. If yours has escaped the ravaging effects it can have, then you are one of the lucky few. Even though many don’t present with substance abuse as their primary issue in therapy, its effects often times become apparent. Therapy is a great place to ...
