Category: Intimate Partner Violence

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

by zenergycounselingblog, posted in Abuse, Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Domestic Violence, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Grief and Loss, Incest and Childhood Abuse, Intimate Partner Violence, Mental Health, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Stress Management, Therapy, Triggers

Initially, I was a skeptic. I am not really about joining something unless I actually see some value in it. So when my supervisor came to me and “suggested” Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) training, her push for it really made me uncomfortable. I went in and needless to say, questioned everything- and truth … Continue reading Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Recognizing Emotional Abuse

by zenergycounselingblog, posted in Anxiety, Boundaries, Depression, Domestic Violence, Intimate Partner Violence, Mental Health, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Relationships, Self-Esteem, Triggers

During my years working with ‘victims’ of domestic violence, I noticed a common theme- most did not recognize that emotional abuse was a form of abuse. The best way I could describe emotional abuse was by comparing it to an accident. It’s easy to treat the physical cuts or bruises because you can see it … Continue reading Recognizing Emotional Abuse

When decisions conflict

by zenergycounselingblog, posted in Anxiety, Boundaries, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Communication, Coping Skills, Divorce, Domestic Violence, Goal Setting, Intimate Partner Violence, Life Transition, Mental Health, Relationships, Self-Esteem, South Asian Culture, Stress Management, Therapy, Triggers

We all make numerous decisions every single day- from what to wear to what to eat for lunch. Early on, we become experts at decision-making such that, generally, small decisions are no longer mentally taxing. However, making a large life decision can be anxiety-inducing and cause tension in our relationships. Humans are incredibly complicated creatures. … Continue reading When decisions conflict

Generational Trauma

by zenergycounselingblog, posted in Anxiety, Boundaries, Caretaker Burnout, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Communication, Coping Skills, Depression, Divorce, Domestic Violence, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Grief, Incest and Childhood Abuse, Intimate Partner Violence, Mental Health, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Self-Esteem, South Asian Culture, Stress Management, Therapy, Triggers

How do you tie your shoelace? Who taught you? Do you know who taught them? Chances are that it was a parent or a family member who taught you just like they were taught by the generation before them. When we talk about family “inheritance,” we mostly assume money, traditions, or even genes but it … Continue reading Generational Trauma

What is Mental Health?

by zenergycounselingblog, posted in Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety, Boundaries, Caretaker Burnout, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Communication, Coping Skills, Depression, Divorce, Domestic Violence, Emotional Intelligence, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Goal Setting, Grief and Loss, Habits, Incest and Childhood Abuse, Intimate Partner Violence, Life Transition, Mental Health, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Self-Esteem, Sexual Abuse/Assault, Social Work, South Asian Culture, Stress Management, Therapy, Triggers, Women's Issues

Let’s start today with a pop quiz. What is Mental Health? a)    Understanding what mental issues we struggle with. b)    Understanding our overall well-being. c)     A diagnosis so we can get help from insurance. d)    Everyone is just crazy! If you answered B, you are correct! Mental health is so much more than just understanding … Continue reading What is Mental Health?

Boundaries: What are they and how do I set them?

by zenergycounselingblog, posted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Coping Skills, Domestic Violence, Goal Setting, Habits, Intimate Partner Violence, Mental Health, Self-Esteem, Stress Management, Triggers

As I start writing this blog about boundaries, I can’t help but recall my high school geography class. A huge part of the class was actually coloring; I remember trying different coloring methods to figure out what felt natural and comfortable. Initially, I loved outlining with markers but after some time, I became more comfortable … Continue reading Boundaries: What are they and how do I set them?

Improving Self-Esteem

by zenergycounselingblog, posted in Anxiety, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Depression, Domestic Violence, Goal Setting, Intimate Partner Violence, Mental Health, Self-Esteem

I believe that an important part of counseling is discussing goals or what you would like to accomplish in counseling. After all, you are not coming to counseling because life is perfect; you are seeking counseling to overcome whatever it is holding you back. One of the most common goals my clients asked to work … Continue reading Improving Self-Esteem