Reflect Feelings Instead of Problem-Solving
As I was driving home from work today, my friend Carolyn called me on the phone and told me about her rough day. Her boss had told her that he wanted her to something, and she felt that it was [...]
Why Sexual Assault Survivors Blame Themselves
It’s not your fault. Before I dive into a blog article about sexual assault, I had to say that. You may feel like it’s your fault. Not only is that extremely common; it's also trying to protect you from your [...]
The Value of Uncomfortable Conversations
I never tell people on airplanes that I’m a therapist. Early in my career, a colleague advised that if he wants to have a productive or relaxing flight, he tells his seatmate that he sells life insurance. But on a [...]
Powerlessness, Neo-Nazis, and Musical Theater
“There are Nazis marching everywhere, and I’m kind of panicking.” I’ve heard some variation on this sentiment from a lot of clients over the last several weeks, and it’s been really paralyzing – not just for them, but for me. [...]
Why External Validation is the Wrong Standard
When I was about three years old, my father taught me how to swim. He brought me into the pool, had me hold onto the edge in the shallow end, and then walked about three feet away. "Ok, Jennie!" he [...]
In Defense of Failing
I’m a big fan of trying new things, and if you’ve been reading this blog for a while, you know I’ve written about many of those experiences. I’ve shared about how yoga is connecting, how scuba centers you, and how [...]
Say Yes to the Stress
I spent the better part of 2016 planning my wedding, and in that process, I learned a lot. I learned how to negotiate a vendor contract to make sure my interests were protected. I learned how to delegate and then [...]
6 Ways to Endure the Trump Presidency
Yesterday – I’m certain I don’t have to tell you – was a roller coaster of emotions. Most people I knew woke up in the morning, reveling in the likelihood of the historical day: electing the first woman to be [...]