Life Transitions Blog
The Loneliness Epidemic - Strategies for Fighting Isolation
Loneliness is a growing problem among young adults and career professionals, and as a therapist and life coach here in New Orleans, I see it every day in my practice. The COVID-19 pandemic has only made things worse, leaving many people feeling isolated and disconnected from others.
Therapy & Emotional Intelligence – How Your Mental Health Plays Into Your EQ
As a therapist working with young professionals and college students in New Orleans, I've seen firsthand the immense pressure many of my clients face to excel in their personal and professional lives. And if there’s one concept I’m finding popping up more and more, it’s emotional intelligence (EQ) – especially within self-improvement and professional development.
Building Healthy Relationships through Self-Care and Boundaries
Do you find yourself constantly saying "yes" to requests from others, even when you genuinely want to say "no"?
Do you go out of your way to accommodate people, forgetting your own needs and desires in the process?
If this sounds familiar, you may exhibit people-pleasing behaviors.
Can Daily Affirmations Truly Change Your Life? The Power Behind Positive Thinking
You may not realize it, but you do talk to yourself. All the time, actually. And those words you say to yourself profoundly affect your mindset, self-belief, and ability to achieve your goals. The stream of self-talk running through your mind impacts your emotions, your outlook, and even your abilities.
That's why, as a licensed psychotherapist with my Ph.D. who has counseled countless young adults and professionals over my 25+ year career, I'm an enthusiastic proponent of positive daily affirmations.
Exploring the Patterns and Meanings of Your Dreams
In my work with clients, dreams often come up as a window into their inner worlds. My clients share dreams that seem bizarre or intense and wonder what meaning they could possibly have.
I believe everyone has the right to understand their personal dreams and use them as a positive force in their lives. Let’s look at dreams – why they happen, what they mean, and how best to use them – so that everyone can benefit from this underestimated human experience.
What Is Social Anxiety Disorder?
Every week, I meet with individuals in my New Orleans therapy practice who mention their struggles with social anxiety disorder. Although people often use the term “social anxiety” interchangeably with shyness, there is a world of difference between these two states.
Unlike shyness, which may be temporary, mild, and easily managed, social anxiety disorder (SAD) is an intense fear of being judged negatively or embarrassed in front of others. Sometimes, it can become a phobia, preventing you from engaging with others publicly or privately.
Harnessing the Power of Positive Psychology for Young Adults & College Students
An interesting movement in therapy has arisen in the past few decades, driven by Dr. Martin Seligman. Known as “positive psychology,” Seligman’s philosophy resonated deeply with me. Instead of lingering on flaws and failings, this approach celebrates our strengths, potential, and the many facets contributing to a fulfilling life.
Mastering Self-Awareness: Unleashing the Power Within to Achieve Your Goals
Self-awareness serves as a guiding light in our pursuit of personal growth and achievement. Yet, we often struggle to remain mindful, clear and focused when our goals seem far away. This is where mastering self-awareness comes in.
As a therapist and counselor in New Orleans, I work with individuals who desire to unlock their inner potential and achieve their goals daily. Through my practice, I have found that self-awareness is the foundation for building meaningful, successful lives.
How to Recognize Manipulative Behavior in a Narcissistic Relationship
If you are in a relationship - be it dating, marriage, family, or platonic - with a narcissist, you may find yourself in a manipulative situation that is difficult to escape.
A narcissist - someone who exhibits a grandiose sense of self-importance, needs excessive admiration, and has an exaggerated sense of entitlement - often uses various techniques to manipulate the people around them.
Combating Low Self-Esteem Among Young Professionals and Adults
Low self-esteem can be incredibly damaging to our mental and physical health, as it can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, low motivation, insecurity in relationships and work settings, as well as a lack of resilience in the face of life’s challenges.
Confronting Post-Graduate Depression: What You Need to Know
For many college graduates, the future is bright with hopes of a successful career, financial security, and a jumpstart on life. But for some, post-graduate depression can be an unwelcome surprise.
Protecting Your Heart & Mind During Your Twenties: Tips from a Licensed Therapist & Life Coach
Navigating life during your twenties can be both exciting and overwhelming. From graduating college to entering the workforce, starting new relationships to managing finances – this decade is full of potential and potential pitfalls. When faced with these new experiences, it’s essential to protect your heart and mind.
Cultivating Lasting Relationships: The Impact of Long-Term Friendships
Today’s culture is suffering from an epidemic that many feel, yet few recognize - loneliness and a lack of connection. Research continues to show that the majority of American adults identify as “isolated” or “lonely” in their daily lives, with few friends or close connections to call on when things are tough.
Are Dating Apps Helping or Hurting Your Mental Health?
The explosion of dating apps and online dating platforms has completely changed the way people meet and connect. Rather than venturing out to public spaces and striking up a conversation with a stranger, people can now connect with others from the comfort of their homes - and in some cases, without even leaving their beds.
How Burned-Out Millennials Are Overcoming Challenges with Therapy
We’ve all seen the headlines about burnout among millennials – whether due to a demanding work culture, high expectations set by society, or both.
Young professionals, in particular, feel pressure to reach their goals while dealing with everyday anxieties and stress. Many are turning to therapy as a way to cope and improve their mental health.
What Is Preoccupied Attachment
Attachment and companionship are two crucial human needs. It shapes our interactions with others and how we see ourselves. As we age, companionship becomes an integral part of our lives.
Yet, for many, their personal and intimate relationships are marred by anxious preoccupied - a form of anxious attachment characterized by insecurity, clinginess, and constant worrying about being abandoned or rejected.
The Surprising Benefits of Hobbies for Young Professionals
Who said your career has to be all about climbing the corporate ladder? In fact, your hobbies can play a big role in helping you rise to the top - in work and in life.
In today's hyper-competitive workforce, young professionals are finding that their first career moves are resulting in high levels of burnout.
Tips to Help College Students Protect Their Mental Health This School Year
For many college students, this school year will be unlike any other.
Many students have to adjust to a new reality with the ongoing pandemic - from attending online classes to living away from home for the first time. All of these changes can be tough to manage and can take a toll on your mental health.
College Roommate Relationships 101: 6 Rules to Rock Your Freshman Year Together!
Congratulations. You’re arriving at college in just a few days, and your world is about to explode with new experiences, ideas, friends and a few challenges as you settle into your new environment. Your freshman year is sure to be full of surprises and adjustments especially if you are sharing living space on or off-campus with others.
How Will College Be Different After COVID-19?
As colleges and universities design and implement new safety procedures, COVID-19 may escalate one of the most frequent challenges college students face—isolation. Many college students struggle with figuring out where they “fit in” under normal circumstances. With social distancing and a limit on social gatherings, there is the potential for students to feel even more isolated during this time.