Writings from a Virginia Therapist who loves horses and helping.
Blog
Breaking the Silence: How Men Hide Trauma and the Path to Healing
Trauma is a universal human experience, yet how individuals cope with it can vary widely based on social conditioning, personal beliefs, and cultural expectations. For men, societal norms often discourage emotional vulnerability, leading many to hide their pain rather...
EMDR Therapy vs. EMDR Intensives: What’s the Difference?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has become a primary tool in the treatment of trauma and related mental health conditions. Developed in the late 1980s by Francine Shapiro, EMDR has been extensively researched and endorsed by mental health...
Blue Christmas: Navigating Holiday Sadness with Authenticity and Self-Care
The holiday season is often portrayed as the "most wonderful time of the year"—a time of celebration, togetherness, and joyful gatherings. Yet, for many, the reality of the season feels quite the opposite. Rather than a period of unbridled joy, the holidays can bring...
How Narcissism Can Affect Self-Esteem
Experiencing a relationship with a narcissist can be profoundly traumatic, reshaping the way one views oneself and causing lasting harm to self-esteem and self-image. Narcissistic abuse, especially when it happens in a close relationship, can be insidious and deeply...
Mastering the Mind: How Self-Talk Transforms Equestrian Athletic Performance
In the world of sports, mental strength is often as crucial as physical prowess. Elite athletes aren't just defined by their strength, speed, or skill but also by their ability to maintain focus, stay motivated, and manage pressure. A critical factor influencing an...
How Depression and Anxiety Affect Sports and Work Performance
Mental health has gained much-needed attention in recent years, with particular focus on how conditions like depression and anxiety impact daily life. When we think about mental health challenges, we often associate them with emotional distress, social withdrawal, or...