Anger, that familiar flame within us, often plays a role far more complex than what meets the eye. Picture it as an iceberg—what we see on the surface is just the tip of a much larger emotional structure, hidden beneath the water.

As we approach the holiday season, many of us look forward to cherished traditions, quality time with family, and the warmth of connection. However, for some, the holiday season can illuminate the challenges of family dynamics, particularly when it comes to the intricate web of enmeshment.

Let's talk about the all-too-familiar dance we engage in when the demands of life become overwhelming. Picture this: you find yourself sinking into the digital abyss of mindless activities, be it scrolling through social media, binge-watching TV, or any other distraction that requires minimal cognitive effort. It's a tempting escape, a brief reprieve from the incessant demands of reality. But here's the twist—it's a trap, and anxiety is the web it weaves.

In this week's blog post, I want to tackle a concept that's near and dear to my heart as a psychotherapist who specializes in anxiety and perfectionism: the idea that it's the effort and process, not just the outcomes, that truly matter when it comes to success and our mental well-being.

In the realm of psychology, let's unravel the fascinating concept of self-serving bias and how it intertwines with our anxieties, perfectionistic tendencies, failures, and overall mental health. The self-serving bias, at its core, is the way we attribute positive outcomes to our personal virtues and actions, while conveniently pointing the finger at external factors when things go south. In other words, we like to take credit for the highs and shift the blame for the lows.

What's the Polyvagal Theory, and Why Should You Care? Hey there! Today, I want to dive into the world of the Polyvagal Theory. Now, I know it sounds a bit fancy, but I promise to keep it approachable.

You know, we all have that little voice in our heads, the one that says, "I can't do this" or "I'm not good enough." These are what we call limiting beliefs, and they're like the unwanted guests at the party of our minds. As a Chicago-based psychotherapist, I've seen firsthand how these limiting beliefs can contribute to anxiety and self-sabotaging behavior, and I'd like to share some insights with you.

This week, let's dive into the topic of burnout and its connection to high-functioning anxiety. Burnout is a significant concern, especially in today's fast-paced world, and it's crucial to understand how high-functioning anxiety can play a role in it. So, grab a comfy seat and let's explore this together.

Hey there! Today, we're going to explore the fascinating journey of personal transformation and how it connects to mental health, therapy, anxiety management, and breaking free from unhealthy habits. Buckle up, because understanding the stages of change can be a game-changer in your journey towards a healthier, happier you.

As a psychotherapist specializing in anxiety, I've seen firsthand how perfectionism can be a relentless driver of anxiety. So, let's dive deeper into the world of perfectionism, unpack its root causes, understand who it tends to affect, and explore some practical tips to conquer it.

As a psychotherapist who specializes in anxiety and related mental health concerns, I've witnessed how the intricate dance of comorbid (psychobabble for "occurring together") anxiety and depression can challenge individuals. Today, I'll delve into this intertwined world, deciphering the signs that often accompany it, exploring the reasons behind this duo, and equipping you with practical strategies for managing it or seeking help.

Hey there! Today, I want to dive into a topic that's near and dear to my heart: self-compassion and how it can be a game-changer in managing anxiety. As a psychotherapist who specializes in anxiety, I've seen firsthand the profound impact that self-compassion can have on my clients' lives. But before we get started, take a moment to reflect on your visceral response to the word "self-compassion." What comes to mind? Any judgments?