Self-care isn’t a one-size-fits-all formula—and it certainly isn’t static. By tuning in to your current season of life and giving yourself permission to adapt, you can create routines that are more realistic, sustainable, and meaningful. Especially for parents, whose routines and responsibilities change so often, this mindset shift can be the key to actually experiencing the benefits of self-care, rather than constantly chasing an ideal.

Over-functioning is a behavioral pattern where a person consistently takes on more responsibility (emotionally, mentally, physically, or even spiritually) than is healthy or sustainable. It often involves stepping in to solve problems for others, anticipating needs before they’re expressed which unfortunately for me never goes very well. Sometimes it can even manifest in the undeniable urge to take charge to prevent things from “falling apart,” even when they might not be.

At Brentwood Counseling Associates, we understand that becoming a parent is not just a life event—it is a profound transformation. It touches every part of your identity: your body, your relationships, your inner world. Whether you are navigating fertility challenges, adjusting to life after birth, or trying to reconnect with yourself amidst the chaos, support is here.

There are countless therapies, skills, and interventions available today. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed — especially when faced with the long list of credentials following a therapist’s name. Maybe you have a specific issue you want to address, but aren’t sure which kind of therapist or method to choose. This article aims to shed light on two well-known therapeutic approaches: Brainspotting (BSP) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

Good mental health allows us to cope with stress, build strong relationships, and navigate life’s challenges with resilience.

The truth is that trauma does not have to be the end of your story. On the other side of trauma is post-traumatic growth. You can grow, heal

An emotional flashback involves a surge of emotions with no apparent cause or a disproportionate response to an event.

We all have a story in our heads. It’s the narrative we tell ourselves about who we are, what we’re capable of, and how we fit into the...

Mindfulness is a great way to improve mental and emotional well-being, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote overall health. However,...

Think about the following folks and what they have in common. Hunter is a 27-year old college graduate who has just quit his third job...

You might be wondering if that’s even possible. 2020 has been a challenge, to say the least. There’s no doubt that it’s left a lot of us...

The new normal. Mental health and COVID-19. If you’re wondering how to optimize wellness during the current pandemic, you’re not alone....

Stressed to find the best gift during the Christmas season? Christmas is a holiday of joy and cheer.  Many of us use it as an opportunity...

They’re baaaaaack! It’s hard to ignore the holidays when we’re constantly reminded of them by the music, ads, and store displays all...

by Jay Tift What is Stress? Simply put, stress is the way that we respond to the stuff that happens in our world. The things that are...