counselor Archives - Jessica Conaway

Navigating the Journey of Grief: Understanding and Coping with Loss

By Jessica Conaway

grief Mental Health Conditions Mental Health Services and Resources

acceptance coping counselor Emotions family friends grief healing hobby loss nature pain process religious sadness self-care spiritual support support group. therapist therapy

Posted: January 23, 2023

Grief is a natural response to loss. It is the emotional suffering one feels when something or someone they love is taken away. Grief can be caused by the loss of a loved one through death, the end of a relationship, the loss of a…

Understanding Defense Mechanisms: The Different Types and Their Impact on Mental Health

By Jessica Conaway

Mental Health Conditions mental health conditions in kids Therapy and treatment options

coping strategies counselor Defense mechanisms denial displacement identification mental health moderation personal relationships projection rationalization regression repression sublimation therapy thoughts unconscious psychological strategies unpleasant emotions Well-being

Posted: January 20, 2023

Defense mechanisms are unconscious psychological strategies that protect individuals from unpleasant emotions and thoughts. They are a normal part of the human experience and can be healthy when used in moderation. However, excessive use of defense mechanisms can lead to problems in personal relationships and…

Recognizing the Signs of a Toxic Relationship: A Guide to Identifying and Escaping Abuse

By Jessica Conaway

Mental Health Services and Resources Trauma and abuse

building resilience communication community resources controlling behavior coping mechanisms counselor creating a support system criticism domestic violence emotional abuse emotional manipulation empowerment gaslighting Guilt-tripping healing healing journey healthy boundaries healthy dynamic healthy relationship healthy relationships help identification lack of trust mental abuse mental health mutual respect physical abuse power and control power dynamics rebuilding self-esteem red flags safety safety plan seeking help self-care self-care practices self-care tips self-compassion self-discovery self-empowerment self-esteem self-love self-worth setting boundaries social support support support groups therapist toxic dynamic Toxic relationships trauma-informed care trauma-informed support trust trust after abuse validation verbal abuse victim

Posted: January 13, 2023

Identifying a toxic relationship can be difficult, as the signs may not always be obvious. However, there are certain red flags that can indicate a toxic dynamic. Constant criticism: A partner who is constantly critical of you, whether it be about your appearance, your personality,…