New Life Counseling
8 Books about Emotions for Children
The earlier we connect and understand our emotions, the better we will be able to respond to all kinds of situations. Emotions are valid. Mental health is important. Mental health matters. Let’s teach it to our children. Let’s help our teens understand mental health. When our children know how to express their emotions and speak…
How to Manage Change in a Healthy Way
Have you ever heard the saying, “The only constant in life is change?” That quote is by a Greek philosopher named Heraclitus. Heraclitus also has another famous quote, “No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it’s not the same river and he’s not the same man.” My mentor once told me, “Change…
Codependency – Narcissist Trap
It’s a Trap! Understand the connection between a codependent and a narcissist. Learn the trap codependents walk into over and over again. It’s a difficult trap but it’s possible to break free.
Shame, Guilt, & Your Mental Health
Do you know the difference between embarrassment, humiliation, guilt, and shame and the lasting damage they could create? Learn how to shift your attitude and actions toward combating shame and guilt.
How Do Boundaries Work In A Toxic Marriage?
Have you ever been told you needed better boundaries? Just what does that mean? And how do boundaries work especially in a marriage with toxic and destructive communication or behaviors? What Is A Relational Boundary? A boundary, much like a fence, separates your physical yard from your neighbors. A relational boundary differentiates one individual from…
Your Diagnosis: A Letter From A Counselor
As a counselor, I get a wide variety of people that need to talk through situational stress, relationship problems, grief and loss, patterns of behavior, trauma and all that comes with it. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, I wanted to take the opportunity to share three things to keep in mind if you…
Setting Healthy Boundaries: YES & NO
Healthy boundaries are essential for successful relationships, romantic and otherwise, and a balanced, joyful life. Without boundaries, it gets hard to determine our limits and often we find ourselves overwhelmed and stressed out—not to mention feeling guilty about our choices. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. With a few tools in your toolbox…
Goal setting strategies by Enneagram Type: Goals part 4
In part 4 of our goal setting series we are talking about how your personality type (specifically enneagram) influences your goal setting process. We are giving tips for setting healthy goals based on your type. Also links to Dr. Don Gilberts Personal Strength Survey.
Coping with Stress: Self-Care part 2
How is stress management vital to your self-care? Your body was created to respond to stressful input- most understand this as the fight or flight response. But your body is not equipped to handle long-term, chronic stress without ill consequences. Yes, that’s right, chronic stress can make you physically sick. We will talk more in…
6 Myths About Addiction
Many people don’t understand addiction and substance abuse or dependency. They think those who struggle with addiction must lack moral substance or willpower. In reality, breaking the cycle of addiction takes far more than an iron will or even a desire to quit. Addictive substances and behaviors quite literally alter the chemistry of the brain…