<![CDATA[the Feeling Space - Blog]]>Fri, 14 Aug 2026 20:13:12 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[Sibling Therapy in Los Angeles: Helping Siblings Heal, Communicate, and Reconnect]]>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 01:18:21 GMThttps://www.thefeelingspace.me/the-feeling-space-california-clinican-articles-and-blogs/sibling-therapy-in-los-angeles-helping-siblings-heal-communicate-and-reconnectSibling relationships are often the longest relationships we have in our lives—and they can also be some of the most complicated. In Los Angeles, where families are often navigating high stress, busy schedules, blended family dynamics, and major life transitions, sibling conflict can become overwhelming for both children and parents.
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At The Feeling Space, we offer compassionate, evidence and somatically based Family and Sibling Therapy in Los Angeles for children and adults to help siblings improve communication, reduce conflict, and build healthier relationships. Our approach is trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate, and supportive of the entire family system.

What Is Sibling Therapy?

Adult sibling therapy is a form of family therapy focused specifically on the relationship between siblings. Sessions may include siblings together, individually, or in combination with parents, depending on the family’s needs and the ages of the children.
Sibling therapy can help siblings:
  • Express emotions safely and constructively
  • Reduce jealousy, rivalry, and resentment
  • Improve communication and problem-solving skills
  • Heal from past conflicts or ruptures
  • Build empathy, cooperation, and emotional connection

Common Reasons Families Seek Sibling Therapy in Los Angeles

Families seek sibling therapy for many reasons, especially during periods of transition or heightened stress. Common concerns include:
  • Previous Unprocessed Trauma between siblings
  • Frequent fighting or aggression between siblings
  • Sibling rivalry or jealousy, particularly after the birth of a new child
  • One child needing more attention due to medical, developmental, or emotional needs
  • Blended family or step-sibling challenges
  • Grief or loss affecting siblings differently
  • Divorce or separation impacting family dynamics
  • Aging Parents
  • Differences in temperament, neurodiversity, or emotional regulation
When left unaddressed, ongoing sibling conflict can impact self-esteem, family harmony, and long-term relationships.

How Sibling Therapy Helps

Sibling therapy focuses on understanding the underlying emotional needs driving conflict—not just stopping the behavior. Our therapists help siblings learn how to:
  • Identify and name emotion
  • Create space to listen
  • Understand each other’s perspectives
  • Listen and validate each other's perspectives
  • Develop healthy boundaries
  • Repair after conflict
  • Feel seen and valued within the family system
This process often leads to reduced tension at home and improved emotional regulation for everyone involved.

Our Approach to Sibling Therapy at The Feeling Space in Los Angeles

At The Feeling Space, our Los Angeles sibling therapists use a relational, trauma-informed approach tailored to each family’s unique needs. Depending on age and presentation, therapy may incorporate:
  • Play therapy techniques for younger children
  • Emotion-focused and attachment-based interventions
  • Somatic and nervous-system-informed strategies
  • Family systems and communication skills work
  • ​Parent coaching and support
Our clinicians are trained in modalities such as EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Brainspotting, DBT-informed skills, and Gottman informed therapy, allowing us to adapt treatment as siblings grow and change.

Sibling Therapy for Different Ages

Young Children and Teens
For younger siblings, therapy often includes play, art, and movement to help children express feelings that may be difficult to put into words.

Young Adults and Adults
Older siblings may benefit from structured conversations, boundary work, and support around identity development, autonomy, and long-standing patterns of conflict.

Supporting Parents Through the Process

Sibling therapy isn’t just for siblings - it can also be a space for parents to receive guidance and support. If parents are involved in the process, parents often learn:
  • How to respond to conflict without escalating it
  • Ways to avoid unintentional comparison or favoritism
  • Tools to support emotional regulation at home
  • ​How to create a more balanced and connected family environment

Telehealth and In-Person Sibling Therapy in Los Angeles

We offer telehealth sibling therapy across California and may offer in-person sessions in Echo Park, Pasadena, Santa Monica, and Encino. Telehealth can be especially helpful for busy Los Angeles families balancing school, work, and extracurricular activities. We have evening and weekend availability to accommodate siblings and families. 

LGBTQIA+ Affirming and Inclusive Care

​The Feeling Space is proud to be an LGBTQIA+ affirming practice. We support families of all structures, identities, and backgrounds, and we approach sibling therapy with cultural humility and inclusivity.

When to Seek Sibling Therapy

You don’t need to wait until conflict feels unmanageable to seek support. Sibling therapy can be helpful when:
  • Conflicts feel repetitive or escalating
  • One or more sibling seem emotionally withdrawn or distressed
  • Family stress is affecting sibling relationships
  • You want to proactively support healthier family dynamics

​Early support can prevent patterns from becoming entrenched and help siblings build stronger relationships over time.

Start Sibling Therapy in Los Angeles

If you’re looking for sibling therapy in Los Angeles, The Feeling Space offers thoughtful, compassionate care for families navigating sibling conflict and connection.

We invite you to reach out to schedule a consultation and learn more about how sibling therapy can support your family. Feel free to email us at intake@thefeelingspace.me or call us at (424) 274-0518
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Sibling therapy in Los Angeles | Family therapy for children and teens | Telehealth available across California | In person in Echo Park, Santa Monica, Encino and Pasadena. 
CONTACT US NOW
]]><![CDATA[The Hidden Pressure on Teens & Young Adults in Los Angeles: How Therapy Helps You Thrive — Not Just Survive]]>Tue, 02 Dec 2025 06:05:28 GMThttps://www.thefeelingspace.me/the-feeling-space-california-clinican-articles-and-blogs/the-hidden-pressure-on-teens-young-adults-in-los-angeles-how-therapy-helps-you-thrive-not-just-surviveTeens and young adults in Los Angeles face unique challenges — from academic pressure and identity development to the intense demands of creative careers and the entertainment industry. In a city that values achievement, image, and constant productivity, many young people quietly struggle with anxiety, depression, burnout, or feeling like they’re “not enough.”
At The Feeling Space, we specialize in supporting teens, college students, young adults, LGBTQIA+ youth, and creatives navigating the pressures of film, TV, digital media, and performing arts. Whether you’re dealing with stress from auditions, academic overload, identity questions, or simply feeling lost, therapy can help you find clarity, confidence, and emotional steadiness.

The Emotional Weight Teens & Young Adults Carry Today

Young people in California — especially in LA — often describe feeling:
  • ​Constant pressure to perform (in school, work, or the arts)
  • ​Overstimulation and burnout from packed schedules
  • Identity exploration around gender, sexuality, or career path
  • Loneliness, even while surrounded by people
  • Anxiety and perfectionism fueled by social media
  • Fear of falling behind peers who seem more successful
  • Creative block or career stress in competitive industries
These stressors can build quietly until they feel unmanageable. Therapy offers support, structure, and a space to breathe.

For Creatives & Film Industry Professionals: You Don’t Need to “Push Through” Alone

Being in the entertainment industry comes with its own emotional landscape:
  • Unpredictable schedules
  • Rejection and comparison
  • Financial uncertainty
  • Long hours on set
  • Pressure to perform or maintain an image
  • Creative burnout
  • ​Navigating representation, contracts, and unstable job cycles
Young actors, filmmakers, writers, dancers, models, and digital creators often tell us they feel like they can’t talk about these struggles because it feels “dramatic” or “weak.”
But struggling doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re human.
​In therapy, we help creatives reconnect with passion, set healthy boundaries, manage rejection, and develop resilience in an industry that rarely slows down.

LGBTQIA+ Teens & Young Adults Need Safety — Not Judgment

We are an LGBTQIA+ affirming practice that provides trauma-informed, gender-affirming, and culturally sensitive support.
Many queer youth and young adults seek therapy for:
  • Gender identity exploration
  • Coming out
  • Family or cultural stress
  • Dating and relationship challenges
  • Anxiety or depression
  • Internalized shame
  • Minority stress
  • Finding community
You deserve a space where your identity is honored and fully understood. We’re here to walk with you through every stage of your journey.

Signs It Might Be Time to Start Therapy

You don’t need a crisis to seek support. It might be time for therapy if you’re experiencing:
  • Feeling overwhelmed or “stuck”
  • Trouble sleeping or overthinking
  • Anxiety that’s affecting school, work, or creativity
  • Loss of motivation
  • Difficulty managing relationships
  • Feeling disconnected from yourself
  • Creative block or burnout
  • Identity confusion or self-doubt
  • ​Struggling to keep up with school or on-set expectations
Therapy offers tools to regulate emotions, build confidence, and navigate the messy parts of growing up in a high-pressure city.

How Therapy Helps Teens & Young Adults Thrive

Our clinicians specialize in modalities that help young people grow:
  • EMDR for trauma, overwhelm, and stuck patterns
  • Brainspotting for creative block, performance anxiety, and emotional regulation
  • IFS (Internal Family Systems) for identity work and self-understanding
  • DBT skills for emotional regulation and impulse control
Whether sessions are online or in-person at our Los Angeles offices (Santa Monica, Pasadena, Echo Park or Encino), we make therapy accessible and supportive.

You Don’t Have To Navigate This Alone

If you’re a teen, young adult, LGBTQIA+ youth, or creative professional looking for support, we’re here to help. Our team at The Feeling Space understands the complex emotional world you’re navigating — and we’re committed to helping you grow, heal, and reconnect with yourself.
We currently have openings for new clients across California.Telehealth and in-person options are available.
📍 Serving Los Angeles (Santa Monica, West LA, Pasadena, Echo Park, Silver Lake, Encino, and all of California online.
Click here to schedule a consultation or reach out to be matched with a therapist who fits your needs.

Contact us today for a free 15 minute consultation. intake@thefeelingspace.me / (424) 274-0518
Contact Us
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]]><![CDATA[Supporting Teen Mental Health: What Parents Need to Know]]>Wed, 28 May 2025 17:21:18 GMThttps://www.thefeelingspace.me/the-feeling-space-california-clinican-articles-and-blogs/supporting-teen-mental-health-what-parents-need-to-knowAdolescence is a time of massive growth, self-discovery, and emotional change. But for many teens, it's also a time of heightened anxiety, identity exploration, and social pressure. At The Feeling Space, we provide compassionate, neurodivergent-affirming, and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy for teens across California—offering both telehealth and in-person support in Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, West LA, and Pasadena.

Why Teen Mental Health Matters

Mental health challenges in teens are more common than many parents realize. According to the CDC, one in five teens struggles with a mental health disorder such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD. Left unaddressed, these issues can impact academic performance, self-esteem, relationships, and long-term emotional well-being.
Teens today are navigating a complex world—balancing academic demands, social media pressures, identity development, and sometimes trauma or family stress. It’s no surprise that so many teens feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of where to turn.

Signs Your Teen May Be Struggling

It’s not always easy to tell the difference between typical teenage behavior and a mental health concern. Here are a few signs that your teen might benefit from therapy:
  • Withdrawing from friends or family
  • ​Persistent irritability, sadness, or mood swings
  • Changes in sleep or eating habits
  • Drop in academic performance
  • Difficulty concentrating or feeling overwhelmed
  • Expressions of hopelessness or low self-worth
  • Risky behaviors or substance use
Early support can help your teen build resilience, process their emotions, and develop healthy coping tools.

What Is Teen Therapy Like?

At The Feeling Space, we provide a warm, affirming environment where teens feel safe to show up as themselves—without judgment or pressure. Our therapists are trained in a range of trauma-informed and evidence-based approaches, including:
  • EMDR and Brainspotting for trauma and anxiety
  • ​DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) for emotion regulation
  • Internal Family Systems (IFS) to explore inner conflict
  • ​Mindfulness and somatic therapy to strengthen mind-body awareness
  • Creative and expressive arts for teens who connect better nonverbally
We also work closely with parents and caregivers (with your teen’s consent) to create supportive strategies at home.

Supporting Neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ Teens

We’re proud to offer neurodivergent-affirming care—meaning we don’t pathologize difference. Instead, we honor each teen’s unique brain, learning style, and sensory experience. Whether your teen has ADHD, is on the autism spectrum, or is exploring their identity, we create a space of validation and understanding.
Many of our clients also identify as LGBTQIA+, and we know how important it is for queer and questioning teens to work with therapists who affirm their identity and experience.

Therapy Can Help Teens:

  • Develop emotional regulation and coping tools
  • ​Build self-esteem and confidence
  • Heal from trauma or bullying
  • ​Navigate social and academic stress
  • Explore identity in a safe, affirming environment
  • ​Improve communication and relationships

We’re Here to Help

If your teen is struggling, they don’t have to go through it alone—and neither do you. At The Feeling Space, we’re here to support you both. We offer therapy for teens online across California and in-person in Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, West LA, and Pasadena.
Whether your teen is facing anxiety, trauma, school stress, or just needs a space to process, we’d be honored to help.

​Interested in teen therapy in California?

Reach out to us at www.thefeelingspace.me or call 424-274-0518 to learn more or schedule a free consultation.
BOOK A FREE 15 Minute consultation
]]><![CDATA[How Family Therapy Helps California Families Heal and Thrive]]>Tue, 29 Apr 2025 20:38:02 GMThttps://www.thefeelingspace.me/the-feeling-space-california-clinican-articles-and-blogs/how-family-therapy-helps-california-families-heal-and-thriveFamily Therapy in California: Support for Stronger, Healthier Relationships
Families are the foundation of our emotional well-being, but even the most loving families face challenges. Whether you're navigating parenting conflicts, sibling rivalry, or healing from trauma, family therapy can provide the guidance and support needed to restore balance and connection.
At The Feeling Space, a California-based group psychotherapy practice, we offer compassionate, evidence-based family therapy to help families communicate more effectively, resolve conflict, and foster healthy relationships.
Contact us now for a free 15 minute consultation

What Is Family Therapy?

Family therapy is a form of psychotherapy that supports families in improving their communication and resolving relational challenges. A psychotherapist works with family members to identify patterns, build empathy, and develop healthier ways of relating to one another.

Common Reasons Families Seek Therapy

Families come to therapy for a variety of reasons, including:
  • Parent-child conflict
  • ​Blended family dynamics
  • Divorce or separation
  • ​Sibling rivalry or jealousy
  • Grief and loss
  • Adolescent behavioral concerns
  • Mental health support for a family member
  • Life transitions (moves, illness, coming out, etc.)
At The Feeling Space, our diverse team of clinicians are trained in approaches such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Gottman Method and trauma-informed care to support a wide range of family needs.

Benefits of Family Therapy

  • Improved Communication: Learn to express emotions in healthy, productive ways.
  • Stronger Emotional Bonds: Foster deeper connections and mutual understanding.
  • Better Conflict Resolution: Identify triggers and develop new ways to manage disagreements.
  • ​Support During Transitions: Navigate life changes with greater resilience and clarity.

​Why Choose Family Therapy in California?

California families are diverse and complex. Whether you're raising children in a bilingual household, co-parenting after divorce, or supporting a child exploring gender identity, having a culturally responsive and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist matters.
At The Feeling Space, our therapists honor the unique identities, cultures, and stories of each family. We offer online therapy for families across California and in person sessions in Los Angeles (Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, Beverly Hills and Pasadena) providing accessible support from the comfort of your home.

What to Expect in Family Therapy Sessions

Your therapist will begin by understanding each family member’s concerns and goals. Sessions may include the whole family or subgroups, depending on the therapeutic needs. We focus on creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where everyone has a voice.
Therapy is collaborative, strengths-based, and customized for your family's values and challenges.

Ready to Start Family Therapy in California?

If your family is struggling with communication, disconnection, or transitions, you don’t have to go through it alone. Our licensed therapists are here to help your family reconnect and move forward with compassion and confidence.
📍 Serving all of California online
In Person Availability in Santa Monica, West LA, Beverly Hills and Pasadena
🌈 LGBTQIA+ affirming | Poly & ENM inclusive | Trauma-informed care
Reach out today:
📞 424-274-0518
🌐 www.thefeelingspace.me
Contact us now for a free 15 minute consultation
]]><![CDATA[Healing Through the Body: How Somatic Therapy Supports Creatives]]>Thu, 24 Apr 2025 01:27:22 GMThttps://www.thefeelingspace.me/the-feeling-space-california-clinican-articles-and-blogs/healing-through-the-body-how-somatic-therapy-supports-creativesCreatives—whether you're an actor, writer, dancer, musician, or visual artist—often feel deeply, think intensely, and express what many struggle to put into words. While this can be a gift, it also means you're more vulnerable to emotional overwhelm, performance anxiety, creative blocks, and burnout. That’s where somatic therapy can help.

At The Feeling Space, a California-based group psychotherapy practice, we support artists and creatives using trauma-informed and body-based modalities like Brainspotting, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and IFS (Internal Family Systems).

Why Creatives Are Drawn to Somatic Therapy

Creative professionals tend to process the world somatically—through sensation, movement, rhythm, and emotion. Traditional talk therapy doesn’t always reach the places where pain or creative blocks live. Somatic therapy helps you access and release stuck emotional energy through the body, not just the mind.

Brainspotting for Performers and Artists

Brainspotting Therapy and Intensives works by identifying eye positions (or “brainspots”) that correlate with stored trauma or emotional charge in the body. It’s especially helpful for:
  • Stage fright and performance anxiety
  • Creative blocks or loss of inspiration
  • Releasing trauma held in the body, especially from early experiences or past performance failures
  • Enhancing flow and focus
For dancers and musicians who are deeply attuned to the body, Brainspotting often feels intuitive and freeing.

EMDR for Creative Professionals

EMDR helps desensitize painful memories or beliefs that may be interfering with your creative process. It can be used to process:
  • Criticism or rejection in competitive industries
  • Fear of failure or imposter syndrome
  • Childhood wounds that affect your voice or confidence
  • Public speaking or audition trauma
With EMDR, many creatives find they regain a sense of clarity, purpose, and inner calm—allowing their true selves to shine through their art.

IFS: Healing the Inner Critic and Embracing Your Creative Parts

IFS (Internal Family Systems) helps you explore the different “parts” of yourself—including the inner critic, the perfectionist, the people-pleaser, and the vulnerable artist. This approach is powerful for creatives who feel emotionally pulled in different directions or overwhelmed by self-doubt.
In IFS, we help you:
  • Build a relationship with your inner critic instead of fighting it
  • Protect your sensitive, creative self without shutting it down
  • Heal past wounds that limit self-expression
  • Cultivate self-compassion and confidence

Why Work with a Therapist Who Gets Creative Brains?

At The Feeling Space, many of our therapists have creative backgrounds themselves. We understand the highs and lows of creative life—from auditions and deadlines to artistic blocks and burnout. Whether you're based in Los Angeles, San Francisco, or anywhere in California, our telehealth therapy services make it easy to connect with someone who speaks your language. We also have in person availability in Santa Monica, West LA, Beverly Hills, Encino, and Pasadena. 

​Ready to Reconnect with Your Creative Self?

You don’t have to navigate the emotional toll of creative life alone. Somatic therapy can help you return to your body, regulate your nervous system, and reclaim your creative voice with greater ease and confidence.
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📅 Schedule a free 15-minute consultation today and let us match you with a therapist who gets it. Feel free to reach out to intake@thefeelingspace.me or (424) 274-0518. 
Book A Consultation now
]]><![CDATA[Supporting Siblings Through Divorce, Grief, or Family Transitions: How Therapy Can Help]]>Tue, 25 Feb 2025 03:51:06 GMThttps://www.thefeelingspace.me/the-feeling-space-california-clinican-articles-and-blogs/supporting-siblings-through-divorce-grief-or-family-transitions-how-therapy-can-helpThe Impact of Family Changes on Sibling Relationships
Sometimes, life takes us by surprise. In an instant, family dynamics can change. After the initial shock subsides, we may be left confused and needing a safe space to process with our loved ones. Life transitions such as divorce, death, or major family changes can significantly impact the sibling dynamic. Siblings often turn to each other for comfort during difficult times, but they can also experience increased tension, confusion, or even resentment. Family therapy and sibling therapy can provide essential support to help families navigate these transitions together in a healthy way.

How Divorce Affects Sibling Dynamics

Divorce is one of the most challenging transitions a family can go through. While some siblings become closer as they rely on each other for support, others may experience more arguments, rivalry, or emotional distance due to stress and uncertainty, no matter the age. Some common challenges include:
  • Feelings of divided loyalty – Children may feel torn between parents, which can create tension between siblings who interpret the situation differently.
  • Changes in family structure – Moving between households, adjusting to step-siblings, or coping with a single-parent home can disrupt sibling bonds.
  • Emotional distress – Anxiety, sadness, or anger about the divorce can lead to increased sibling conflicts.
How Therapy Can Help:
Sibling and family therapy provide a space where children can openly express their emotions, learn effective communication skills, and rebuild a sense of stability within their sibling bond.
Connect With Us For Sibling Therapy

Grieving Together: When Siblings Experience Loss

​The death of a parent, grandparent, or close family member can create overwhelming grief for children. While siblings may provide comfort to one another, they may also grieve differently, leading to misunderstandings or emotional distance.
Common sibling challenges during grief include:
  • Different ways of expressing sadness
  • Feeling isolated in their grief or thinking their sibling doesn’t understand
  • Increased anxiety about further loss or changes within the family
  • Financial tension within the family due to funeral costs, estate matters, or changes in household income, which can add stress to sibling relationships.
How Therapy Can Help:
A trained family therapist can help siblings validate each other’s grief, develop coping strategies, and create meaningful ways to remember their loved one together. Therapy also provides a safe space for processing emotions at each child’s pace.

Adjusting to Major Family Transitions

In addition to divorce and grief, other major life changes—such as a parent aging, moving to a new home, or welcoming a new sibling—can create emotional upheaval for children. These transitions can lead to jealousy, behavioral changes, or struggles with adaptation.
How Therapy Can Help:
  • Building healthy coping mechanisms – Therapy helps siblings manage their emotions and adjust to change in a supportive environment.
  • Encouraging open communication – Sibling therapy teaches children to express their needs and concerns without fear of judgment.
  • Creating a sense of security – Family therapy reinforces the idea that even though things are changing, their relationships remain strong.

The Benefits of Sibling and Family Therapy

Therapy provides a structured space where siblings can:
  • Learn healthy ways to communicate and express emotions
  • Develop problem-solving skills to navigate conflicts
  • Strengthen their emotional connection and support for each other
  • Reduce stress and anxiety about family changes
At The Feeling Space, A Marriage and Family Therapy Corporation, our California-based family therapists specialize in helping siblings navigate difficult transitions. Whether your family is going through a divorce, grieving a loss, or adjusting to a major life change, our compassionate therapists are here to support you.

Get Support for Your Family Today

If your children are struggling with a major transition, sibling therapy or family therapy can help them process their emotions and strengthen their bond. Contact The Feeling Space today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can support your family.

Call us at (424) 274-0518 or Email us at Intake@TheFeelingSpace.me 
Call Us For A Free 15 Minute Consultation
]]><![CDATA[Navigating the Emotional Aftermath of Los Angeles Wildfires: How Therapy Can Help]]>Mon, 27 Jan 2025 22:18:26 GMThttps://www.thefeelingspace.me/the-feeling-space-california-clinican-articles-and-blogs/navigating-the-emotional-aftermath-of-los-angeles-wildfires-how-therapy-can-helpThe recent wildfires in Los Angeles have caused devastation to thousands of families by destroying homes, displacing communities, and leaving many with overwhelming feelings of loss and uncertainty. As communities begin to rebuild, it’s important to acknowledge the profound emotional and psychological impacts these disasters leave behind. At The Feeling Space, we are committed to supporting those affected through specialized therapeutic services.

The Mental Health Impact of Wildfires

Experiencing a natural disaster like a wildfire can trigger a range of emotional responses. Along with physical loss comes significant emotional distress, including:
  • Grief and loss: The destruction of homes and cherished possessions can trigger deep feelings of mourning.    •  
  • Displacement anxiety: For those forced to evacuate, being uprooted from familiar surroundings adds layers of stress.
  • Trauma and PTSD: Experiencing or witnessing the chaos of wildfires can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), characterized by flashbacks, nightmares, or hypervigilance.
  • Financial stress: Rebuilding lives often comes with economic uncertainty, adding to mental strain.

Even as the fires subside, their impact on emotional well-being can linger. Seeking professional support can be a vital step toward recovery during these difficult times.

How Therapy Can Aid in Recovery

  •  Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): An evidence-based approach that helps individuals reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge. EMDR has been shown to be effective for wildfire survivors, facilitating emotional resilience and recovery.
  • Brainspotting Therapy: This technique accesses deep-seated emotional pain related to trauma, promoting healing by identifying and processing specific points in the visual field.
  • Internal Family Systems (IFS): A therapeutic approach that helps individuals understand and harmonize the different “parts” of themselves that may be in conflict due to trauma.
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness strategies to help manage intense emotions and improve relationships.

Our therapists are trained to address trauma-related symptoms, providing personalized care to help you regain a sense of safety, control, and hope.

Supporting Children and Families

Children are particularly vulnerable to the psychological effects of wildfires. They may exhibit signs of distress such as increased clinginess, regression in behavior, or heightened fearfulness. Therapists recommend:

Open communication: Encourage children to express their feelings and validate their emotions.
Routine establishment: Maintaining a regular schedule can provide a sense of normalcy and security.
Professional support: Child-focused therapies can help young ones process their experiences in a developmentally appropriate manner.

At The Feeling Space, we offer specialized child and parenting therapy to support families in navigating these challenges together.

Taking the First Step

Recognizing the need for help is a courageous and vital step toward healing. If you or a loved one is struggling with the aftermath of the wildfires, The Feeling Space is here to support you. We are currently offering a free 6 week pro-bono support session for those who have lost their homes and have been affected by the fires (please see the flyer below). We offer in person sessions in Santa Monica, Sawtelle, Beverly Hills, and Pasadena and online therapy sessions accessible throughout California, including Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco.
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Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. Together, we can navigate the path to recovery, fostering resilience and hope in the face of adversity.

Email: Intake@TheFeelingSpace.me
Phone: (424) 274-0518
Website: www.TheFeelingSpace.me
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]]><![CDATA[What is Sibling Therapy? How Sibling Therapy Can Improve Relationships]]>Fri, 20 Dec 2024 01:22:05 GMThttps://www.thefeelingspace.me/the-feeling-space-california-clinican-articles-and-blogs/how-sibling-therapy-can-improve-relationshipsFamily Dynamics
Sibling relationships can be considered the longest relationships that most people will experience in their lifetimes. As they are often transition from childhood playmates to lifelong companions, siblings share a unique bond. However, sibling relationships can produce conflict, tense misunderstandings, and unresolved emotional heartache. Sibling therapy is a structured and supportive environment that can address these challenges and foster healthier and more fulfilling relationships.

What Is Sibling Therapy?

Sibling therapy is a subcategory of family therapy that focuses on improving communication, resolving conflicts, and strengthening the relationship between siblings. The goal is for siblings to work together to address the root causes of tension and learn tools for better interaction. The following are some family circumstances in which this approach may be helpful:
  • Challenges experienced with blended family dynamics.
  • Consistent sibling rivalry.
  • Lack of or unhealthy communication.
  • Conflict regarding responsibilities and roles for aging parents.
  • Discord due to significant family changes, such as divorce.

Benefits of Sibling Therapy

Sibling therapy can offer the following benefits to families:
1. Improved Communication Skills
Sibling conflicts can often stem from miscommunication or challenges with emotional expression. Therapy can provide an environment where siblings:
  • Can learn active listening skills.
  • Practice constructively expressing needs and emotions.
  • Improve empathy by viewing each other’s perspectives.
2. Resolution of Long-Standing Conflicts
When unresolved issues develop during childhood, it can often carry into adulthood. Therapy can be a safe space where the following can be addressed:
  • Explore painful pasts and misunderstandings.
  • Discuss feelings of resentment or favoritism.
  • Find closure and move forward.
3. Stronger Emotional Bonds
Therapists can guide siblings to rebuild their trust and develop empathy. During therapy siblings have a unique setting to work on the following:
  • Develop deeper connections with their sibling(s).
  • Provide a space to support one another through any of life’s challenges.
  • Encourage the celebration of each other’s successes.
4. Improved Family Dynamics
​Developing a healthier relationship between siblings can often encourage healing with other family members. Once sibling relationships improve, the following may occur:
  • Stress reduction for parents and other family members.
  • Create a healthier home environment.
  • Set an example of positive conflict resolution.

When to Consider Sibling Therapy

While anyone can benefit from sibling therapy, it may be helpful to seek help in the following situations:
  • Frequent or Intense Conflicts
  • Major Life Transitions
  • Estrangement
  • Challenges with Decision-Making

What to Expect in Sibling Therapy

Sibling therapy sessions are often unique to the needs of the participants. Some things that may occur during therapy sessions are:
  • Guided discussions, where the therapist can facilitate conversations to discuss any underlying issues and explore solutions.
  • Skill-building exercises, where the therapist has participants engage in activities that may improve communication, empathy, and conflict resolution.
  • Homework, where therapists may provide assignments to practice new skills outside of sessions.

Working Together

Therapy sessions are collaborative and encourage siblings to participate and work toward strengthening the relationship. With the guidance of a therapist, siblings can turn conflict into connection, creating a foundation for a lifetime of support, love, and understanding. Whether the problem is constant arguing or navigating new adult responsibilities between siblings, therapy can promote healing and help build a stronger bond.

If you’re ready to strengthen your sibling relationship, consider reaching out to The Feeling Space Team. Our therapists are here to help you take the first steps toward healing and growth.

Email: Intake@TheFeelingSpace.me
Phone: (424) 274-0518
Website: www.TheFeelingSpace.me
]]><![CDATA[Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to Heal from Trauma]]>Mon, 16 Dec 2024 22:24:41 GMThttps://www.thefeelingspace.me/the-feeling-space-california-clinican-articles-and-blogs/using-dialectical-behavior-therapy-dbt-to-heal-from-traumaDBT and Trauma
​Survivors of trauma can experience disruptions in many parts of their lives, whether that is in their personal, work, or social. Symptoms of trauma are often exacerbated by “triggers” or a stimulus that can cause an adverse emotional reaction, which can worsen symptoms of a mental health condition. One way to confront these emotional disruptions is to add tools to your coping toolbox. One powerful approach is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT has evolved into a versatile therapeutic tool that can help individuals cope with trauma, manage overwhelming emotions, and rebuild a sense of safety and stability.

What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?


Psychologist Dr. Marsha Linehan created DBT. She combined elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with principles of mindfulness. The term “dialectical” in DBT refers to balancing two opposing ideas—acceptance and change. In trauma therapy, this means acknowledging the pain caused by trauma while also working to develop skills that foster healing and growth.

The four key elements of DBT are as follows:
  1. Mindfulness – Staying present and aware of your thoughts, emotions, and surroundings without judgment.
  2. Distress Tolerance – Managing intense emotions in moments of crisis.
  3. Emotion Regulation – Understanding and controlling emotional responses to reduce intensity.
  4. Interpersonal Effectiveness – Building healthy relationships and asserting boundaries.

When applied to trauma recovery, these skills can provide concrete tools to help individuals regain control over their lives.

​

Why DBT Works for Trauma Recovery

Symptoms of trauma can overwhelm a person’s ability to process emotions and keep one foot in reality. Flashbacks, hypervigilance, dissociation, and intense emotional swings are common.

DBT teaches tools to work on these symptoms by:
  • Teaching grounding techniques to remain connected to the present moment.
  • Implementing distress tolerance skills to navigate emotions without resorting to harmful coping strategies.
  • Focusing on improving self-talk, using unconditional positive regard and acceptance as a way to process the trauma.
  • Offering emotional regulation strategies to reduce the emotional highs and lows often experienced after trauma.
By combining these elements, DBT helps individuals to tolerate distress and heal.

How the DBT Elements Support Trauma Healing

The four key elements of DBT can be utilized to heal from trauma by helping with the following:
1. Mindfulness: Finding Safety in the Present
​Trauma can leave you feeling stuck in the past or fearful of the future. Here is how mindfulness can help:
  • Observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
  • Use the 5-4-3-2-1 technique to anchor yourself in the present (five things you see, four things you hear, etc.)
  • Practice deep breathing or guided meditation to self-soothe.
2. Distress Tolerance: Surviving Intense Emotions
When emotions are triggered related to the trauma, they can put a person into crisis mode. DBT provides tools to help you survive moments of crisis, such as:

  • TIPP Skills (Temperature, Intense Exercise, Paced Breathing, Progressive Muscle Relaxation) to quickly and effectively put you in a calm state.
  • Distraction Techniques like listening to music, engaging in hobbies, or focusing on practical tasks.
  • Self-Soothing through comforting activities like wrapping yourself in a blanket or drinking a favorite tea.
3. Emotion Regulation: Taking Back Control
Trauma-related emotions can feel unpredictable and overwhelming. Here are some ways to emotionally regulate:
  • Identify and name emotions to reduce their intensity.
  • Challenge unhelpful thinking patterns.
  • Build healthy habits like exercise, balanced eating, and regular sleep to stabilize your mood.
  • Learning to regulate emotions helps you feel more in control and less reactive to triggers.

4. Interpersonal Effectiveness: Building Safe Relationships
Symptoms of trauma can cause stress in relationships and make trust difficult. Here is how interpersonal effectiveness skills help you:
  • Assert your needs while respecting others.
  • Set and maintain healthy boundaries.
  • Communicate effectively, even during conflict.​

Finding Healing Through DBT

Healing from trauma is a marathon, not a sprint, and one you do not have to endure alone. DBT provides a roadmap of skill building that can help you learn emotion regulation, build resilience, and regain control of your life. By learning to balance acceptance and change, you can honor your pain while working toward a healthier, more grounded future.

If you or someone you know is struggling with trauma, The Feeling Space team has mental health professionals who are professionally trained in DBT. With the right tools and support, healing is possible. Schedule a session today!

Email: Intake@TheFeelingSpace.me
Phone: (424) 274-0518
Website: www.TheFeelingSpace.me
]]><![CDATA[A Therapist's Guide to Coping with Holiday Stress]]>Tue, 10 Dec 2024 00:30:00 GMThttps://www.thefeelingspace.me/the-feeling-space-california-clinican-articles-and-blogs/a-therapists-guide-to-coping-with-holiday-stress​The holiday season often brings a mix of joy and stress. For many, it’s a time to reconnect with loved ones, celebrate traditions, and reflect on the year. But it can also be overwhelming, especially if you're navigating trauma, anxiety, or relationship challenges. At The Feeling Space, a California-based psychotherapy group practice, we specialize in helping individuals and families manage these complexities and find balance in their lives.
Here’s a guide to understanding holiday stress and strategies to cope effectively, ensuring the season feels more joyful and less draining.

​Why Are the Holidays So Stressful?

While the holidays are often portrayed as cheerful, they can also amplify stress due to:
  • Unrealistic Expectations: Pressure to create the "perfect" holiday experience can be exhausting.
  • Financial Strain: Gift-giving, travel, and events can strain budgets.
  • Family Dynamics: Reuniting with family can bring up unresolved conflicts or difficult emotions.
  • Overloaded Schedules: Balancing work, social obligations, and personal needs can feel impossible.
  • Loneliness or Grief: The season can highlight feelings of loss or isolation.
If any of these resonate with you, know that your feelings are valid and you’re not alone.

Practical Strategies to Cope with Holiday Stress


  1. Set Realistic Expectations
    Remember, perfection isn’t the goal. Focus on what truly matters to you and let go of unnecessary pressure. Simplify where you can, whether it’s opting for smaller gatherings or giving heartfelt but simple gifts.
  2. Create a Budget
    Financial stress can be a significant source of anxiety during the holidays. Set a budget that feels manageable and stick to it. Emphasize thoughtful, non-monetary gestures over expensive gifts.
  3. Prioritize Self-Care
    • Schedule downtime to recharge.
    • Maintain regular routines, such as exercise or mindfulness practices.
    • Limit alcohol and sugary treats, which can exacerbate anxiety or low moods.
  4. Set Healthy Boundaries
    • Politely decline events or obligations that feel overwhelming.
    • Communicate openly with family about your needs and limits.
  5. Acknowledge and Process Emotions
    It’s okay to feel sad, anxious, or nostalgic during the holidays. Give yourself permission to process these emotions and seek support from trusted friends, family, or a therapist if needed.
  6. Practice Gratitude
    Shift your focus to moments of connection, kindness, and joy. Keeping a gratitude journal can help you stay present and grounded during hectic times.
  7. Seek Support When Needed
    If the holidays feel unmanageable, reaching out to a therapist can provide invaluable tools and insights.

​Navigating Relationships During the Holidays

Relationships often come under strain during this season. To foster connection and minimize conflict:
  • Focus on Communication: Express your feelings calmly and listen actively to others.
  • Practice Empathy: Remember, everyone may be dealing with their own holiday stress.
  • Take Space When Needed: If emotions run high, stepping away briefly can prevent escalation.

​How Therapy Can Help During the Holidays

At The Feeling Space, we understand how the holiday season can heighten existing challenges, particularly for those dealing with trauma, anxiety, or relationship struggles. Our skilled therapists, trained in modalities like EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, DBT and Gottman Therapy, can help you navigate the season with greater ease and resilience.

​Looking Ahead: Planning for a Stress-Free Holiday

The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. By setting realistic expectations, prioritizing self-care, and seeking support when needed, you can create a season that feels authentic and fulfilling.
If you’re ready to explore how therapy can support you during the holidays or year-round, contact The Feeling Space today. Together, we can help you move toward a calmer, more joyful season
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