Author: IH Psychotherapy Team
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Why Being “Too Nice” Might Be a Trauma Response
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Have you ever been told you’re too nice? Maybe you say yes when you want to say no, apologize even when you haven’t done anything wrong, or feel responsible for other people’s feelings. On the outside, this can look like kindness or generosity. On the inside, it can feel exhausting,…
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What to Do When Your Brain Won’t Shut Off Before Bed
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Have you ever climbed into bed, ready to sleep, only to have your mind suddenly shift into overdrive? Thoughts about tomorrow, replayed conversations, or “what if” worries can start racing the moment the lights go out. The more you try to force sleep, the more awake you feel. If this…
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How to Build Confidence Through Small Wins
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Have you ever noticed how easy it is to focus on what you haven’t accomplished yet — instead of what you’ve already done? Many people think confidence comes from big achievements or life-changing milestones, but in reality, it often grows quietly, one small win at a time. Confidence isn’t something…
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How the body holds stress – and what helps
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Have you ever felt your shoulders tighten after a tough conversation or your stomach churn before a big presentation? Stress manifests not just in our minds but also in our bodies, leading to tension, fatigue, and discomfort. Understanding how our bodies store stress is the first step toward releasing it…
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A balanced approach to holiday giving
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The holiday season is often synonymous with generosity and kindness. From lavish gifts to charitable donations, the spirit of generosity seems to permeate the air. We’re encouraged to give back, share our blessings, and spread joy. However, what starts as a well-intentioned act of kindness can sometimes spiral into a…
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Understanding the science of mindfulness
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I remember when my partner introduced me to mindfulness, I’d roll my eyes and think, “How could sitting still and focusing on my breath affect my health.” “I have so many more important things to do with my time.” Focusing on my breath sounded too simple and too new age-y.…
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Sleep: The silent guardian of mental health
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We often overlook the profound impact that sleep has on our mental well-being. While we may associate it with rest and recovery, sleep is a dynamic process that plays a critical role in our emotional, cognitive, and psychological health. As Dr. Matthew Walker, a leading sleep scientist and author of…
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Breaking the cycle: The importance of addressing childhood trauma
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Although childhood trauma is a difficult topic, I think it’s important to talk about it so that we can learn how to address it. Childhood trauma is a complex issue with far-reaching consequences. It often leads to a vicious cycle of pain and dysfunction that can be passed down through…
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Journaling without stress
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Journaling, a practice cherished for centuries, has garnered significant attention from researchers and authors alike. They have explored its various benefits, from improving mental health to fostering creativity. Yet, for many, journaling can be daunting, let alone writing daily. The blank page can feel like an anxiety-provoking void, and the…
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Self-care: A therapist’s perspective
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As a psychotherapist, I often encourage my clients to prioritize self-care. This concept is often misunderstood, with many people associating it with laziness or selfishness. But the truth is, self-care is essential for our well-being. What is self-care? Kristen Neff, renowned self-compassion researcher states “self-care is any activity that helps…