How we blend emotions
Personal development
Humans are incredibly complex emotional beings. We experience a vast range of emotions beyond the core/basic emotions. These emotions don't exist in isolation—our minds and bodies constantly process and combine them, creating rich internal…
5 Benefits of Insight-Oriented Therapy:
Mindfulness, Personal development
Insight-oriented therapy is a powerful approach that delves deep into understanding the underlying roots of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By exploring past experiences and internal processes, individuals can gain profound self-awareness,…
Understanding and Recognizing Neurodivergence
Personal developmentWhen a family member or friend shares that they are neurodivergent—whether they have ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD, formerly Asperger's Syndrome), or both (or any form of neurodivergence for that matter)—it’s important to take their…
A final goodbye to Buddy, our therapy-dog
Personal developmentBuddy, the Therapy Dog, has crossed the Rainbow Bridge
This is by far the most difficult post I have ever had to write. For 16 years, Buddy has been a regular presence in my practice and in my personal life. He was with me almost 24/7. Buddy…
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Techniques for Stress Management
Personal development
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective approach for managing stress, and improving overall well-being. Because it is an empirically validated approach that relies on applied neuroscience, CBT is a foundation for most other…
Healing Political Division: Rebuilding Hope and Stability
Anxiety, Personal development, Stress Management
Finding Hope Amid Political Division: Moving Beyond Outrage and Fear
This election has left many feeling divided. Harris supporters may be feeling fearful or disappointed, while Trump supporters might feel like they need to keep their celebrations…
Learning Disabilities Across the Lifespan and How to Manage Them
Family and Parenting, Personal development
Learning Disabilities Across the Lifespan: Recognizing, Understanding, and Supporting Individuals at Every Age
Learning disabilities (LDs) can affect people throughout their lives, impacting academic, social, and professional areas at each…
Boundaries
Personal development
Boundaries: Tips For Building Healthy Relationships at School, Work, and Beyond
Boundaries help maintain balance, protect well-being, and ensure respectful interactions with others. Whether in school, at work, or in personal relationships,…
How to Show Kindness Without Appearing Weak
Personal development
Kindness is Not a Weakness
In a world where kindness can sometimes be mistaken for weakness, it’s essential to find a balance that allows you to be compassionate and respectful without compromising your own strength. Many people struggle…
Self-Esteem
Personal developmentSelf-esteem is the foundation of a positive and happy life. When we lack self-confidence, we can feel unworthy, anxious, or even depressed. But with practice, self-esteem can grow, leading to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Self-Love is…
Healthy Political Discussions
Personal developmentAfter a contentious election season, social media threads often engage in political confirmation bias. Tempers flare, insults are hurled, and anticipatory defensiveness likely contributes to people taking things personally.
Can't We All Just…
7 Signs That You’re a People Pleaser
Personal developmentBeing kind and helpful is a great quality, but sometimes it can go too far. If you often find yourself putting others' needs before your own to the point of stress, burnout, or even compassion fatigue, you might be a people pleaser. Here are…
Borrowing Responsibility: When Helping Hurts
Personal development, Stress ManagementTaking on responsibilities can be a great thing. It shows you're dependable, caring, and willing to help others. But what happens when you "borrow" too much responsibility that isn't yours to deal with? This can lead to unhealthy situations…
Autism Spectrum and Making Friends
Personal development
Developing and maintaining friendships can be a rewarding and fulfilling aspect of life for teens and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). While building social connections might present unique challenges, there are effective…
Autism Spectrum and Dating
Couples and Marriage Counseling, Personal development
Going on a date can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience, especially for teens and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The key to a successful date lies in being authentic, respectful, and considerate of your own…
How Successful People Leverage Failure and Rejection
Personal development“I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.”
—…
Finances, Budgeting and Mental Health
Personal developmentFinances are not the number one reason for suffering; it's an attachment to financial or material gain that is the root of suffering. However, money is often cited as the number one reason for relationship stress. Even for single individuals,…
Preparing for College: A 6-Step-Guide
Personal development
The transition from high school to college marks a significant milestone in the lives of young adults. It's a time filled with anticipation, excitement, and even a touch of uncertainty. As high school seniors prepare to embark on this…
A Guide to Developing Strong Social Skills
Personal development
Navigating the complex world of social interactions as a teenager can be both exciting and challenging. Developing strong social skills is crucial for building meaningful relationships, fostering self-confidence, and preparing for success…
Effective Study Strategies for Teen Success
Personal development
Navigating the world of academics as a teenager can be both challenging and rewarding. Developing effective study habits is crucial for achieving academic success while maintaining a healthy balance with other aspects of your life. In…
Dealing with Toxic People
Personal developmentRecently, there has been a lot of attention on how to recognize and minimize contact with toxic people. While it is important to take appropriate steps to protect yourself from such people, it is also helpful to know how to deal with or even…
Understanding Toxic People
Personal developmentDealing with toxic people can be a difficult task, but it's important to remember that with the right knowledge and practice, you can protect yourself and avoid being pulled into their negative vortex. This article will provide you with some…
Creating the Mindful Mind
Mindfulness, Personal developmentThe word "mindfulness" is becoming more familiar to the general public, and that's a good thing. In a world full of violence and heartache, a mindful mind can help relieve suffering. Mindfulness is the practice of noticing what "is" without…
Mindfulness Practice
Mindfulness, Personal developmentWhen you look at the child in this picture, notice the 10,000-mile stare. This gaze is called the "10,000-mile stare," and it happens when someone is totally absorbed in the moment. His eyes are open, but he is completely present with the smell…
2016 - Jonathan F. Anderson, LPC-sMetacognition: Awareness of Awareness
Mindfulness, Personal developmentMetacognition is a valuable outcome of mindfulness practice. Mindfulness is the practice of noticing what is in your awareness without judging it as good or bad. For example, consider the mild pain associated with a splinter in your finger.…