There are still all sorts of myths and misconceptions about EMDR! So, let’s get into the most common ones and see if there is any merit to them. 1. EMDR is like being hypnotized I get asked a lot if EMDR is like hypnotism. There are a few similarities between hypnosis and EMDR, such as both utilize imagery, and both may make you feel relaxed …
EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a revolutionary therapeutic approach that has transformed the lives of many individuals struggling with painful memories, traumatic experiences, and emotional distress. But how exactly does EMDR work in the brain to bring about these transformative changes? Let’s delve into the fascinating world of EMDR therapy and its profound impact on the brain. Breaking Down EMDR: Eye Movements …
What are people talking about when they refer to the eight phases of EMDR? Let’s get into it. Phase 1: History Taking & Treatment Planning We always begin with establishing your goals for therapy and getting a detailed history, including a timeline of your symptoms and the emotions, beliefs, and bodily sensations that go along with them. Then, we use that information to find memories …
Dating again after a divorce can be both exciting and intimidating. It’s a new chapter in your life, and while it might feel daunting, it’s essential to approach it with an open heart and mind. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process of starting over and dating after divorce: Give Yourself Time to Heal Before jumping into the dating pool, take time …
Divorce is a challenging life event that often involves a range of intense emotions and psychological processes. While everyone’s experience is unique, there are typical emotional stages that many individuals go through during and after a divorce. It’s important to note that these stages are not necessarily linear, and people may move back and forth between them. Understanding where you or a loved one fall …
Navigating family life after divorce can present challenges, especially regarding co-parenting. At Firefly Therapy Austin, we empathize with these complexities and have developed a comprehensive guide to assist you in keeping your children’s well-being at the forefront during this transition. Clear Communication Consistent and open dialogue is essential. Aim for clear and respectful exchanges focused on your children’s well-being. Use neutral language, stay calm, and …
Losing someone special turns your world upside down. But even in the darkest times, you can find a new purpose. Let’s talk about how. Let’s Talk About Grief It’s tough, but let’s face it head-on. Feeling the sting of loss? It’s natural. Cry if you need to. Or maybe you find relief in laughter—memories that sparkle. Grief is a journey, and it’s okay to feel …
Grief can appear in many different, strange, and abrupt ways when least expecting it. You could be going through your day feeling fine when suddenly, BAM! Grief has stricken. Depending on where you are within the healing process of your loss, you could be experiencing different stages of grief. The five stages of grief are denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross was a …
Nightmares and sleep issues can be distressing for both children and their parents. Addressing these problems requires a multifaceted approach that involves understanding the underlying causes and implementing strategies to create a more peaceful sleep environment. Here are some tips below to help children overcome nightmares and sleep issues. Create a Calm Bedtime Routine Establish a consistent bedtime routine that promotes relaxation and calmness before …
Positive affirmations can significantly impact a child’s well-being and development. They are simple, positive statements that children can repeat to themselves, reinforcing their self-esteem and promoting a positive mindset. If you are still determining how this can be beneficial for kids, I have outlined below some of the ways (and impressive affirmations) positive affirmations can be powerful for kids. Boosting self-confidence Affirmations help children build …
Forgiveness is a crucial life skill that helps children develop empathy, compassion, and emotional resilience. It’s not about excusing hurtful behavior, but rather letting go of negative emotions and moving forward positively. Here are some strategies to help teach your children about forgiveness: Lead by Example Children learn best by observing adults. Model forgiveness in your actions and words: For instance, if you snap at …
Navigating a divorce can be a challenging and emotional process for everyone involved, especially for children. As a parent or caregiver, supporting your kids during this time of family changes is crucial. It might be difficult to nurture your relationship with your children during this time, so I have outlined some tips to help children cope with divorce below. Open Dialogue: Keep It Age-Appropriate When …
Do you find yourself avoiding certain situations or conversations? Overcoming avoidant behavior can be challenging, but with persistence and effort, progress is possible. In this article, we will explore steps you can take to overcome or ease your avoidant behavior. Recognizing and acknowledging avoidance is the first step to resolving it. Identifying the root causes of your avoidance can help you set realistic goals and …
Overcoming perfectionism can be a beneficial step toward personal growth and reduced stress. Embracing imperfection and letting go of perfectionism can lead to a happier life. Perfectionism is the tendency to have excessively high standards for oneself and to strive for flawlessness in all areas of life. While high standards can benefit certain situations, perfectionism often increases stress, anxiety, and constant dissatisfaction. I have outlined …
Do you feel overwhelmed coming home to a cluttered environment? Maybe you’re finding that your house or apartment is constantly scattered with things everywhere, even though it feels like you keep it clean… most of the time. Have you considered the link between your inner sense of calm and a messy home? Simplifying your life through decluttering and minimalism can lead to greater happiness. By …
Losing a loved one is a difficult experience for anyone, including children. As a parent or caregiver, it’s essential to provide support and help children cope with grief and loss. You may not know how to explain death to your children or even comfort them when grief arises. I have outlined different strategies to help children cope with difficult grief or loss. Create a safe …
Have you ever heard of Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT)? It’s a form of couples therapy commonly used in committed relationships that focuses on helping partners understand and improve their relationships. Imago Therapy was developed by Dr. Harville Hendrix and Dr. Helen LaKelly Hunt in the 1980s. The term “imago” is derived from the Latin word for “image” and reflects that individuals have an unconscious image …
Have you ever wondered about the physical components of trauma and how it affects the body? Underneath the surface, many different things could occur when dealing with trauma. The neurobiology of trauma involves understanding how traumatic experiences can profoundly impact the brain and body. Trauma is a distressing, frightening, or overwhelming situation that can lead to long-lasting emotional and physiological effects. The brain and body’s …
What is Intergenerational Trauma? Intergenerational trauma is the transfer of trauma from one generation to another. It affects individuals, families, and communities. This trauma often stems from historical events like war, displacement, or systemic oppression, or significant personal experiences such as abuse or neglect. Its impacts can be seen in mental health issues, relationship difficulties, and overall well-being challenges that persist across generations. How Trauma …
Updated: May 29, 2024 Dealing with trauma can be challenging and deeply personal. It’s important to find the right kind of support to help you heal. At Firefly Therapy, our team is dedicated to offering a variety of therapeutic techniques tailored to your needs. Each method aims to address the unique aspects of your experiences, guiding you through a compassionate healing journey. Our therapists are …