Mind Matters

Assertiveness is a learned behavior defined as “clear, honest, authentic communication about oneself, while preserving respect for the other person.” Full story »

A successful marriage is a work in progress, as is any important relationship. If anyone thinks that making those “I do’s” at the wedding will guarantee eternal bliss they have only to check the statistics on divorce to see how it really is. Full story »

What happens in therapy? What should you expect? Why do we believe therapy helps? Individuals usually seek help from a therapist when overwhelmed by life’s problems. Life tends to be very difficult; sometimes we are stressed beyond our capacity to easily cope. Full story »

When Sigmund Freud developed psychoanalysis in the nineteenth century he opened the door to the mysteries of man’s mind and launched us on an endless journey of discovery. Full story »

Stress haunts us. Its ugly presence makes us fret, doubt ourselves, overwork to earn enough money and make sure our loved ones are happy and pleased with us. Stress begets stress. The harder we strive the more we see what needs to be accomplished. Time is not on our side. We always feel behind schedule. Full story »

Everyone needs someone. It’s a fact of life. Only from a safe, loving connection with another can we find the emotional fulfillment we desire and need. Full story »

Addictions to various substances and behaviors have plagued world societies for thousands of years. Only in the past few decades has a clearer understanding emerged on causes and effective treatments. Full story »

Identification of core beliefs can be challenging because the unconscious parts of our ego and psyche go to great lengths to protect us, with amazing success, from a negative self-image. Full story »

Most of us walk through life influenced by certain core beliefs. Although we are only minimally aware of these beliefs and how they affect us, they impact us daily. A primarily goal in psychotherapy is to uncover negative core beliefs, confront them so as to introduce and reinforce positive belief systems. Full story »

On Valentine’s Day what topic could be better than romance? One definition for romance in Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary is: “A romantic affair or experience; a love affair.” Not one of Webster’s many definitions alludes to lasting love. How interesting. Full story »

To maintain a vital, thriving marriage, partners need to be nurtured physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Mutual nurturing enriches and enhances relationships but too often couples become complacent and take each other for granted. Full story »

The inspiration for this week’s topic comes from a casual conversation about one of the difficulties of being a man; and for the women who live with them. A rather common male affliction shows up when the refrigerator door is opened. Lest I offend and alienate all masculine readers, I apologize in advance, as my observations are offered in good humor. Full story »

Among a very large segment of the population that is required or advised to take medications, very few are aware of basic rules that should be imparted when prescriptions are written and filled. Full story »

Trouble and relationships go hand in hand. Not only are romantic relationships prone to conflict; any and all are susceptible. Can anyone say they’ve never had a disagreement with a friend, relative, supervisor, coworker or employee? Full story »

One week into the New Year and we’re all ready stressed out, or perhaps still stressed out is more accurate. Why not begin a de-stressing program? The following exercise can help to reduce the stress in your life. Full story »