The
BLOG

What Everyone Gets Wrong About High-Functioning Anxiety
Do you feel like most people don't understand how hard it is for you to get through a typical day? Do you feel like you're always waiting for something bad to happen? Or that if people knew you better they would be disappointed? Do you get stuck on details and feel you have to be perfect? If you said yes to any of these questions, you might be struggling with "high functioning anxiety."

The Biggest Red Flags When Picking A Therapist
Choosing a therapist is one of the biggest decisions in your mental health journey. Let's explore why a personalized approach is so important, and how the therapist-client relationship is the key to successful therapy.

Do You Really Need a Diagnosis in Therapy?
The question of whether a diagnosis is necessary can spark lively debates. Some argue it's essential for tailored treatment, while others advocate for a more holistic approach. For some it's an important validation of experience, while others feel pathologized. Let's dive into this topic so you can decide for yourself how important a diagnosis is to you.

Don’t Say This: What Trauma Therapists Want You To Stop Saying
As trauma therapists, we have a pretty high capacity for things that are uncomfortable. But there's one particular phrase that we would appreciate never hearing again.

Anxiety in Teenagers: 11 Subtle Signs to Watch For
Getting through adolescence is hard. As teenagers take on the important task of self-discovery, they meet challenges that can trigger lots of anxiety. Identifying anxiety in teenagers can be tricky for parents because it often looks different than anxiety in adults. You also can't always rely on your teen because teens often don't know what they're feeling is anxiety. By paying attention to changes in behavior and mood, parents and caregivers can offer support and intervention. Here are common subtle indicators that may signal anxiety in the teenagers.

How Do I Know If I Have Trauma or PTSD?
When does an upsetting experience become PTSD? Let's explore the differences between acute stress, PTSD, and Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. We'll recommend when to seek therapy and about a few different ways to heal acute stress, PTSD, and C-PTSD.

Why Some People Bounce Back From Trauma Faster Than Others
Have you ever noticed how some people can seem to simply shake off bad experiences, while others take a bit longer? This quick recovery from tough times is called resilience. It's almost like having a hidden superpower that helps us heal from life's challenges. But what really is resilience, and how can you develop more of it?

How To Support A Partner Who Has Sexual Trauma
What do you do when your partner has been the victim of sexual trauma and you want to support them? What if you still want to have a great sex life together? We'll walk you through the most common responses to sexual trauma and how to be a supportive, loving partner.

Is It A Toxic Work Environment Or Simply A Bad Fit For You?
Finding the right fit job isn't as simple as matching your skills with a job description. In fact, finding an ideal job with great company culture can be as challenging as finding a great partner. The workplace environment itself can play a huge role in how fulfilled you feel. If you've ever questioned whether your workplace is toxic or simply not the right match for you, you're not alone. This is common among lawyers and other professionals, where the clash between personality and workplace culture can be big. Here are some things to consider.

How To Respond to Your EMDR Therapist Asking "What Do You Notice?"
If you've ever been in an EMDR therapy session, you might be familiar with the moment when your therapist asks, "What do you notice?" It's a simple question, yet it's not always obvious how to answer. It can sometimes leave us feeling uncertain about how to respond. Let's explore why your therapist asks this question and how to approach it.

Transform Your Life Through 6 Essential Boundaries
Our lives require a delicate balance of self-care and commitment to others. Most of us err on the side of overcommitting to things and building resentment when we have little time or energy for ourselves. The results can be disastrous: conflict, exhaustion, burnout, and health problems. Here are six essential boundaries you can set to build better balance.

How To Heal From Sexual Trauma
Sexual trauma can be a particularly violating experience. In the depths of struggle after sexual trauma, it's normal to wonder if recovery is possible. The good news here is that recovery from sexual trauma is definitely possible. Let’s explore the nuances of healing from sexual trauma.

What Should You Do After An EMDR Therapy Session? What Should You Avoid?
After an EMDR therapy session, it's important to engage in activities to support your processing and integration of the work you did. You worked hard during the session and we want you to get the most out of it. Here are things you can do after an EMDR therapy session to enhance the effects, as well as things you should avoid that could interfere with your processing.

Webinar: EMDR 101
Curious about EMDR therapy and how it can help you heal your trauma? Watch our free webinar to learn more and decide if this powerful therapy is right for you.

6 Reasons Teens Seek Support And How Therapy For Teenagers Can Help
Everyone goes through adolescence, but not everyone sails through smoothly. Teenagers often find themselves facing challenges that can be overwhelming. For those of us who have already been through it, it can be difficult to recall how hard it actually was. Here are the six most common reasons teenagers seek therapy and how therapy can change teens’ life for the better.

Why Therapy Apps Fall Short: A Closer Look At Common Problems
You've seen and heard hundreds of ads for app-based therapy on YouTube and your favorite podcasts. These app-based therapy companies promise convenience at the touch of a button. But there are critical issues with these companies that can hinder your healing journey. Let's explore why receiving therapy, and especially processing trauma through these platforms may not be the best path forward.

Podcast: What Straight Couples Can Learn From LGBT Couples
Our clinical director is featured on the Empowered Relationship podcast with Dr. Jessica Higgins. She reviews what LGBT couples can teach straight couples and what to look for in a great LGBT couples therapist.

Can Couples Therapy Make Things Worse?
Couples therapy can be a pivotal intervention for relationships facing challenges. But it's not without its potential pitfalls. One common concern is whether couples therapy can make things worse. And yes, sometimes it can make things worse. Let's explore how and why that might happen and what to do about it.

Dealing With Difficult People: The Gray Rock Technique
Dealing with difficult people is exhausting. You find yourself dreading interactions, uncertain how to avoid the drama. That's where the Gray Rock Technique comes in. It's a powerful tool to maintain your peace of mind when dealing with challenging people.

Mindful Escapes in Santa Cruz: A Practical Guide to Finding Calm
Santa Cruz offers a variety of serene locations perfect for practicing mindfulness. This guide highlights six peaceful spots where you can unwind and reconnect with yourself, presented in a straightforward and informative manner.
Tune in to the latest
Listen to what our therapists are talking about on the latest podcasts, videos, and more!
AS FEATURED IN:
Our Teletherapy Services In California & Florida
We offer individualized teletherapy for a wide range of mental health and relational issues. Our San Francisco & Los Angeles teletherapists can help with anxiety, trauma therapy, EMDR therapy, LGBT issues, holistic therapy, enneagram therapy, therapy for lawyers, couples therapy, and therapy for teenagers. We serve many people in San Francisco, Santa Cruz, and Los Angeles, as well as throughout California and Florida. Our team is anti-racist, body positive, LGBT and trans affirming and sex positive. You deserve to feel good!