Working with human nature, not against it.
If you’re human, you use defense mechanisms even though you might not consciously know it; and so does everyone you know. And when you can actually see them, your communication, problem solving skills, emotional health and relationships improve. Let’s break this down – what they are and how they work – so you can...
Do you ever try to take a relaxing moment to yourself, and then notice your brain is escaping to the never ending to do list, upcoming events, or a past mistake? Our brain tends to focus on the past or future, which can lead to triggering emotional moments throughout our day. Mindfulness is a...
When clients are going through a difficult time, they often want to work through the stressors. Of course. However, I often redirect them to really focusing on the basics to create a stable platform from which to address what is happening. Creating that stability makes approaching any stressor much more effective. You might feel...
Our very own Anna Pirkl, MFT, ATR, LADAAC partnered with South Bay Families Connected and created this wonderful series of short videos to support you in staying motivated during distance learning. I know everyone can use some support in this area. I love how the videos are only a couple minutes (if that!) each....
It’s one of those things, like exercising and eating healthy that you know is good for you but can be hard to do consistently, right? You know meditation and mindfulness practice has a physiological impact on your body. It supports your mental health and relationships with others and yourself. And, it’s an amazing support...
This short technique is scientifically tested and proven to create well being physically and emotionally that we thought might be helpful to share in this moment. It’s a great thing to practice when you are going to transition activities, like from work to engage with you partner or child. It works well to start...
We all use our phones for so many areas of our life, why not use it to support your emotional health and resilience? Here are our therapist’s current top recommendations: Mindfulness Everyone knows building mindfulness skills is essential to your emotional and mental health, just like you know exercising and good nutrition is essential...
Buying something nice for yourself, planning a vacation, or getting organized can feel good. And you know there are times when those things barely scratch the surface of what you actually need. These are times where all you want to do is avoid, fix or stop what you are feeling. You want relief. These...
**Written by staff therapist Anna Pirkl, M. A., MFT, ATR, LAADAC I have experienced significant trauma recovery as a direct result of my training at Gracie University in Torrance, California. My Goal… To start a discussion on the psychological benefits I’ve experienced and how it might benefit other trauma survivors as well. I am...
Everyone is talking about Mindfulness. To the point where you might not want to care about it. You probably see annoying memes about the present moment. I get it. Sometimes I scroll by and just want to hate it. But, the reason mindfulness is huge is because it actually is a huge deal. Literally,...