Blog

May is National Mental Health Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental health. Mental health is an essential aspect of our overall well-being, and it’s crucial to prioritize and take care of it. This month provides us with an opportunity to have open conversations about mental health and offer support and resources to those in need. Mental Health Awareness Month was established in 1949 to increase awareness of the importance of mental health and wellness in Americans’ lives, the realities of living with mental health conditions, and strategies for attaining mental health and wellness. It also aims to draw attention to suicide, which can be precipitated by some mental illnesses. Mental Health Awareness Month also strives to reduce the stigma that surrounds mental illnesses. Mental health is essential for a person’s overall health. Prevention works, treatment is effective, and people can recover from mental disorders and live full and productive lives.

The Journey of Healing Our Inner Child

We all have an inner child, a part of us that was shaped by our early experiences and continues to influence our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as adults. Many of us carry wounds from childhood that we may not even be aware of, but that affect our relationships, self-esteem, and overall well-being. Healing the inner child is a powerful process that can help us connect with our authentic selves, rediscover joy and creativity, and live more fulfilling lives. As a therapist who has worked with many clients on this journey, I would like to share some insights and tips that I hope will inspire and support you in your own exploration.

What is wabi sabi? The beauty in imperfection and impermanence

The world often tells us to strive for perfection, but what if we find beauty in the imperfection? This is where the Japanese philosophy of wabi sabi (侘寂) comes in. This way of life teaches us to embrace the beauty of the imperfect, and it can be used in all aspects of life — from decorating our homes to accepting our individual selves and our relationships.

The Importance of Community Spaces: Creating a Sense of Belonging and Wellness

Have you ever felt the longing to be a part of something bigger than yourself? Have you searched for groups that share the same values and visions as you? In your journey to healing and growth, have you ever felt alone? There is so much untapped power in community spaces in promoting mental health and overall wellness. These spaces can take many forms, from parks and public squares to community centers and online forums, but they all share a common purpose: to provide a safe and welcoming environment where people can come together, connect with one another, and feel a sense of belonging. As women of color- we need spaces like these to unapologetically be our authentic selves, receive energy and support from and uplift other community members, and affirm our right to healing and wellness.

We will explore the importance of community spaces for mental health and wellbeing, examples of community spaces, and examine some of the key benefits they offer. We will also discuss some ways in which we can create and maintain these spaces, with the upcoming expansion of WOC Therapy.

A Therapist’s Guide to Navigating Outgrowing Friendships

Friendships are often one of the most significant and consistent relationships people have outside of family- they can span decades and distances. But, just like romantic relationships, friendships are not immune to growing pains. While we may wish for our friendships to last forever, the reality is that we naturally change and outgrow friendships that used to nurture and sustain us.

We treasure our friendships and invest time and energy to maintain them. However, it’s common to outgrow friendships as we evolve and grow as individuals. Although it can be a tough pill to swallow, outgrowing relationships with people is a significant part of growing and finding yourself.

While some relationships may endure and deepen over time, others may fade away or become toxic. It’s important to invest in friendships that uplift and inspire you.

Outgrowing friendships is a process that can cause a range of emotions, from sadness and confusion to even guilt. As a therapist who has witnessed this process first-hand in my clients, I’m here to offer advice on navigating the pain of outgrowing friendships.

Overcoming Perfectionism and the Fear of Failure

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed with the pressure of success, especially if you’re a woman of color in a male-dominated field. Women of color often experience higher levels of perfectionism and fear of failure than other demographics due to systemic racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination. When you’re a woman of color, and your success is predicated on your acceptance from the majority, perfection can feel like the only real option. We have to be more likeable, articulate, logical, and work harder just to enter the spaces that others already exist so comfortably in.

We don’t get taken as seriously. If we fail, we risk jeopardizing the prospects of other WOC who will inevitably be compared to us. We’re forced to compete with our own sisters for limited spots. Our work is valued oftentimes only if we expose our vulnerabilities, trauma, and struggles of being a WOC. Our stories of success are tokenized or used as a comparison for other WOC- “If she could do it, then why can’t you?”

So how can we learn to move past our perfectionist tendencies and fear of failure so that we can each reach success and fulfillment in our own ways?

The Effects of Trauma on our Bodies

As women of color, we are confronted daily with various forms of trauma, whether it be systemic oppression, discrimination, or repeated microaggressions. The impact of these traumas goes beyond the obvious emotional and mental effects, often leading to physical symptoms and health issues. Trauma doesn’t just impact our minds – it can have significant impacts on our bodies. 

A Guide to Self-Care for the Busy Woman on the Move

Do you find yourself striving to have it all, do it all and be everything to everyone? If so, you know that it comes at a cost: It’s easy to lose sight of yourself in the process. And to make it even worse, somewhere along the way, you began to believe that taking care of yourself translated into being selfish.

In today’s fast-paced world, where multitasking and juggling multiple responsibilities have become the norm, self-care can take a backseat. This is especially true for mothers, entrepreneurs, and business women who face unique challenges and stressors. Self-care is essential in maintaining a healthy and balanced life, fostering mental and emotional resilience, and ensuring optimal productivity. If you’re a busy woman on the move, and you’re struggling to prioritize your well-being, this practical guide to self-care will provide you with helpful tips and insights to help you regain balance and thrive in your personal and professional life. Self-care means giving yourself the attention, compassion, time and energy that you need and deserve.

Celebrating the Contributions of Women of Color in the Field of Therapy

As we celebrate International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, it is important to recognize the groundbreaking work of women in the field of therapy, particularly those who have been pioneers for women of color. The field of psychology has long been dominated by white men- but in the wake of the Civil Rights and Women’s movements in the 1960s and 70s, women have been making strides in many professions. From Inez Beverly Prosser, to Martha Bernal and Mamie Phipps Clark, to Reiko True and Jennifer Eberhardt—these women have blazed trails in the world of psychology and continue to inspire generations of therapists.

Ikigai: A Japanese Concept for Finding Your Purpose

Have you ever felt like there was something missing in your life, but you just couldn’t put your finger on it? You may be familiar with the concept of “ikigai” – a Japanese concept which translates to “reason for being” or “the joy of living.” It is a way of looking at life and discovering purpose, meaning, and joy. Let’s explore what ikigai is and how it can help you find your passion.