Author: J
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The Therapeutic Art of Sourdough
In my therapy practice, I often explore the concept of “flow state”—those moments when anxiety quiets and the mind finds peace through purposeful activity. Few activities embody this healing potential quite like sourdough baking, which has become both my personal passion and an unexpected therapeutic recommendation. There’s something profoundly grounding about working with a living…
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Fueling the Mind-Body Connection
In my therapy practice, I’ve learned that mental health and nutrition are inseparable partners. When clients struggle with mood swings, brain fog, or energy crashes, we often discover that unstable blood sugar and inadequate protein intake are contributing factors. This professional insight has made me passionate about the role protein powder can play in supporting…
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Why Stress Balls Are My Secret Weapon
I’ve discovered that some of the most profound therapeutic moments happen when clients’ hands are busy. That’s why I keep a basket of stress balls within arm’s reach during every session—they’re far more than simple fidget toys. When an eight-year-old little girl first came to see me, she couldn’t sit still long enough to discuss…
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Why My Therapy Office Looks Like a Toy Store
When new clients notice the fidget toys, art supplies, and stress balls scattered around my office, they often assume I only work with children. Then I watch a 45-year-old executive find their voice while molding Play-Doh, or see a withdrawn teenager open up during a game of Jenga. The therapeutic power of play doesn’t end…
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The Magic of Emotion Puppets
After several years of working with children, I’ve learned that sometimes the most profound therapeutic breakthroughs happen when we speak in whispers and squeaky voices. That’s why office shelves are lined with emotion puppets—each one a gateway to helping young clients explore their inner worlds. Children often struggle to articulate complex feelings, especially when those…
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Scratching Beneath the Surface: A Therapist’s Take on Canine Skin Health
As a therapist, I’ve learned that visible symptoms often point to deeper issues. When clients present with stress-related skin conditions like eczema or hives, we don’t just treat the surface—we address the underlying inflammation and triggers. The same principle applies to our dogs struggling with skin allergies. My lab, Denby, developed large sores and scabs…
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Beyond the Bowl: A Therapist’s Perspective on Canine Multivitamins
In my therapy office, I frequently see how nutritional deficiencies can masquerade as mental health symptoms. Clients often experience dramatic mood improvements once we address underlying vitamin deficiencies. This professional insight has shaped how I approach my own dog’s wellness. When my rescue pup first came home, she displayed anxious behaviors—excessive panting, restlessness, and difficulty…
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The Golden Spice: A Therapist’s Take on Turmeric for Your Canine Companion
In my therapy practice, I often discuss the mind-body connection with clients—how physical wellness directly impacts mental health. This same principle applies to our four-legged family members, which is why I’ve become passionate about incorporating turmeric into my dog’s daily routine. As someone who witnesses daily how inflammation affects human mood and cognitive function, I…
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The Sacred Practice of Writing
After nearly twenty years of walking alongside clients in their healing journeys, I’ve witnessed the profound power of putting pen to paper. The same transformative practice that helps process trauma, anxiety, and depression in my therapy office becomes even more powerful when applied to our spiritual lives. When we journal while reading Scripture, we’re not…
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The Sacred Art of Highlighting: How Quality Tools Can Deepen Your Bible Study
After almost twenty years of walking alongside clients in their healing journeys and even longer walking with Christ, I’ve discovered that some of the most profound spiritual breakthroughs happen not in grand moments, but in the quiet, intentional spaces we create for encountering God’s word. One simple tool that has consistently enhanced both my personal…
Salt + Cedar Collective 