One of our goals at bareWell is to find language that destigmatizes mental health struggles and honors the identity of our patients and the community. We aim to raise awareness among those who have family members or friends on the spectrum or are part of the neurodivergent community. We believe there is power in names. Through compassion and education, we can contribute to a better tomorrow where no one is forced to fit into a box that has become too small for them.
Read MoreIn our series called ‘Attachment Styles,’ we are now concentrating on the last insecure attachment type: the disorganized or fearful-avoidant attachment. This attachment style can be difficult to talk about and even more challenging to overcome compared to other insecure attachments. Our goal is to clarify these styles to assist those striving for a deeper self-understanding. No attachment style is permanent, and with appropriate therapy and dedication, you can overcome any barriers you face in building relationships with others. With that explanation in mind, let's explore the subject of disorganized attachment.
Read MoreFor many of us, the holiday season is a time to embrace family traditions and create new ones with our loved ones. While this can be an exciting time, it's important to acknowledge that the holidays can also bring challenges. During this time, we often engage in self-reflection and may begin to compare ourselves to our families. Unfortunately, this comparison can lead to uncomfortable realizations. We might notice that our behaviors mirror those of our family members in ways that are unhelpful, or we may find ourselves repeating the same mistakes that they made in the past. Generational cycles can feel like a trap, preventing you from reaching your full potential, but remember that there is hope. Your past does not define you, and this holiday season, we encourage you to embrace both old and new traditions that will enhance the lives of you and your family.
Read MoreIn our latest blog, we’re continuing our ‘Exploring Attachment’ series, focusing on how attachment theory influences our relationships. Previously, we discussed ambivalent, or anxious attachment, but in this blog, we delve into the second most prevalent form of insecure attachment: avoidant attachment. It's important to note that this article aims to describe the theory in detail and should not be considered a substitute for accurate diagnosis, self-reflection, or professional psychological treatment.This blog can serve as an additional resource for gaining insight into yourself and those around you, and like many aspects of ourselves that we might not be entirely satisfied with, change is possible if we are prepared to put in the effort.
Read MoreOur practice aims to humanize psych professionals by sharing our thoughts and feelings about caring for clients. We believe the best way to do this is by discussing what therapists want clients to know. This article is a resource to help you focus on self-improvement, feel more at ease in sessions, and understand your therapist's perspective. We gathered insights from our team and network, highlighting seven key themes we believe are crucial for current and future patients.
Read MoreOur desire to connect influences how we relate to others, which is shaped by our attachment style. Attachment theory examines our relationships with caregivers and the impact these relationships have on our social patterns. Approximately 40% of adults identify as having an insecure attachment, and even those with a secure attachment may experience emotional challenges in their relationships. Our "Attachment Styles" series aims to help readers better understand attachment styles and their own behaviors and we will start by going over ambivalent/anxious attachment.
Read MoreMost of us have a basic understanding of empathy, but not everyone may be familiar with how to apply it or grasp its essence. Nevertheless, we recognize that embracing empathy and honing our capacity to relate to others is crucial for establishing meaningful connections. In this blog post, we are delving into the concept of empathy, exploring more about 'the powerful bond' that can unite us all.
Read MoreIn our fourth and final installment of the “Types of Therapy” series, we explore Family Therapy - a type of treatment that addresses issues that specifically affect the mental health and functioning of the entire family. By working with multiple family members, family therapy focuses on improving communication, managing conflicts, understanding unique family issues, and building stronger relationships.
Read MoreIn the wake of the COVID pandemic, many people are spending most of their time indoors due to our screen-dependent lifestyles. However, taking the time to step outside and immerse yourself in nature can have numerous benefits for both your physical and mental well-being. As the weather cools down and fall approaches, now is the perfect time to give it a try. This article explores the science behind the positive impact of being outdoors on our health and mindset, providing tips to help you incorporate more outdoor time into your routine.
Read MoreSome view self-improvement as a linear process, but human nature is more complex. Untangling mental challenges often requires a mix of techniques over time. In moments of overwhelming stress, therapy can be beneficial, especially dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). This therapy, based on the existence of opposites, helps individuals combat intense emotional struggles effectively.
Read MoreUnderstanding our upbringing and experiences shape us, impacting our attachment style. Being mindful of this in relationships is crucial for our health and mentality. To address our attachment style, we must understand the building blocks of connection and the factors that influence it. Whether you're interested in forming healthier connections or learning more about yourself, this article delves deeper into relationship theories. Join us on this journey.
Read MoreArt has always been a fundamental part of human existence, serving as a means of communication long before the written word. Today, it continues to be a powerful medium for expressing emotions and thoughts. Regardless of skill level, anyone can engage in art, using it to relax, learn about themselves, connect with others, and improve their mental health. Art has numerous benefits and can be used therapeutically to help patients connect with their emotions.
Read MoreIn our recent blog posts, we have discussed the process of selecting a therapist and starting therapy. While the onset of therapy marks a crucial point in one's mental health journey, it is equally important to recognize when therapy should end. People often enter therapy with specific objectives in mind, and understanding the indicators that suggest readiness to conclude therapy is essential. Moreover, the decision to terminate therapy is not always straightforward, as therapy journeys do not always have a definitive endpoint. Recognizing these signs and understanding the nuances of when to end therapy is what this blog aims to highlight as they can be pivotal in ensuring that you get the maximum benefit from your therapeutic experience.
Read MoreMental wellness is a lifelong journey that extends beyond therapy, with therapists continuously learning and evolving alongside their patients. Through education, field experience, and specializing in different types of therapy, therapists improve their ability to provide quality care. Whether an associate or licensed clinician, all therapists contribute to better patient care. When choosing a therapist, consider specialization, demographic alignment, and most importantly, a comfortable rapport for effective therapy and achieving personal goals.
Read MoreHave you ever found yourself in a romantic relationship where you felt like you were putting in more effort than your partner? Did you experience a sense of not having your needs fulfilled? Despite clear signs that things were not improving, did you hold onto hope for change? If so, you may have been caught in a toxic relationship. Toxic love can manifest in various ways, such as emotional manipulation, lack of respect, or imbalance of power dynamics. It can leave one feeling drained, unappreciated, and constantly striving for validation. Breaking free from the cycle of toxic love requires a conscious effort to prioritize self-care and set boundaries. Core mindfulness skills play a crucial role in this process by helping individuals recognize and address unhealthy patterns in their relationships.
Read MoreIn this installment of our “Types of Therapy” series, we will go over Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). At its core, CBT seeks to address cognitive distortions and asserts by addressing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors and replacing them with more regulated and realistic ones. Much like what we described in our blog about narrative therapy, our perceptions, expectations, and narratives can shape our day-to-day experiences. When these perceptions take on a negative tinge due to cognitive dissonance, they can often negatively affect us in many ways. Cases like this are where cognitive behavioral therapy may be helpful to you or someone you love.
Read MoreFinding your vision and your identity involves a process of introspection and reflection, where you sift through the layers of external conditioning to uncover the authentic self beneath. It requires a deep dive into your values, passions, and aspirations, allowing you to differentiate between what truly resonates with your inner being and what is merely a product of external influence. By cultivating this self-awareness, you can cultivate a strong foundation upon which to build a life that is aligned with your true essence.
Read MoreIn this new blog series, we aim to shed light on some of the more popular therapeutic approaches utilized by therapists to assist you in navigating your mental health journey. The first approach we will explore in this series is narrative therapy and we will dive into some narrative therapy techniques, as well as some of its benefits and limitations.
Read MoreWhile beginning therapy has the potential to bring about transformative changes and improvements in one's life, it is common to feel a mix of emotions, including apprehension and uncertainty. Some individuals may find it easier to take the first step towards therapy, while others may struggle with doubts and hesitations. It is essential to acknowledge and validate your feelings, whether they are positive or negative, as they play a crucial role in the therapy process. If you find yourself hesitating to begin therapy, know that you are not alone in feeling this way. Many people experience similar concerns and uncertainties when considering therapy. In this article, we tackle the psychology of starting and offer some tips on how to break through the apprehension barrier and begin your therapeutic journey.
Read MoreSelf-acceptance means acknowledging and embracing all facets of our being, both the positive and the negative. It entails introspection and a willingness to expose our vulnerabilities. In honor of Pride Month, this article encourages individuals in the LGBTQIA+ Community to express their authentic selves. In this blog post, we delve into the process of coming out and explore essential strategies for self-exploration during times of uncertainty. Additionally, we delve into constructive approaches to coming out to loved ones and the importance of self-love regardless of one's identity or orientation. Embracing who you are and honoring your truth is a powerful journey that deserves recognition and support.
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