Family DynamicsSibling 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:
Benefits of Sibling TherapySibling 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:
When unresolved issues develop during childhood, it can often carry into adulthood. Therapy can be a safe space where the following can be addressed:
Therapists can guide siblings to rebuild their trust and develop empathy. During therapy siblings have a unique setting to work on the following:
Developing a healthier relationship between siblings can often encourage healing with other family members. Once sibling relationships improve, the following may occur:
When to Consider Sibling TherapyWhile anyone can benefit from sibling therapy, it may be helpful to seek help in the following situations:
What to Expect in Sibling TherapySibling therapy sessions are often unique to the needs of the participants. Some things that may occur during therapy sessions are:
Working TogetherTherapy 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: [email protected] Phone: (424) 274-0518 Website: www.TheFeelingSpace.me
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DBT and TraumaSurvivors 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:
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:
How the DBT Elements Support Trauma HealingThe 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:
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:
Trauma-related emotions can feel unpredictable and overwhelming. Here are some ways to emotionally regulate:
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:
Finding Healing Through DBTHealing 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! 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:
Practical Strategies to Cope with Holiday Stress
Navigating Relationships During the HolidaysRelationships often come under strain during this season. To foster connection and minimize conflict:
How Therapy Can Help During the HolidaysAt 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 HolidayThe 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 How can I process the election outcomes?Elections can evoke a wide range of emotions, whether your preferred candidate wins or loses. The aftermath can bring feelings of anxiety, disappointment, or uncertainty. Here are some effective strategies to cope with the stress and emotional unrest that often accompany election outcomes: Acknowledge Your EmotionsIt is a common response to feel a range of emotions during and after an election. Whether you’re feeling frustration, joy or confusion, allow yourself to recognize and validate these emotions without judgment. Understanding what you feel can help you process your experiences more effectively. Practice Self-CareMaintaining your physical and mental health is very important during periods of high stress:
Seek SupportConnecting with others can provide comfort and perspective:
Focus on What You Can Control Redirect your energy towards positive actions:
Practice Mindfulness and Grounding TechniquesThese strategies can help you stay present and manage anxiety:
Maintain PerspectiveRemember that elections happen every two to four years, depending on the type of election, and change is a constant in democracy:
Seek Professional Help if NeededIf your election-related stress persists and begins to interfere with your daily life, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional for additional support.
By implementing these strategies, you can better manage your emotions and maintain your well-being during this challenging post-election period. Remember, it's okay to make time for processing your feelings. When you are ready, you can focus on constructive ways to stay engaged and make a positive impact in your community. If you're feeling anxious, stressed, angry, or depressed related to election outcomes, we’re here to help. Take the first step towards emotional wellness. Book a Call At The Feeling Space, we specialize in helping creatives manage their mental health and navigate challenging industry landscapes. Email: [email protected] Phone: (424) 274-0518 Website: www.TheFeelingSpace.me Actors and Work/Life BalanceActors are often facing unique challenges that affect their personal and professional lives due to the demanding and unpredictable nature of their careers. Here are some strategies that can be utilized to reduce stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance: Structured RoutinesStructured daily routine may help with time management and reduce stress: - Organized Schedules: Actors can create detailed schedules that include time for auditions, rehearsals, self-tapes, and personal activities. This way they can be aware of their work schedule while ensuring they have time for themselves. - Prioritizing Activities: By planning ahead, actors can prioritize both work-related tasks and personal activities, helping them maintain a sense of balance. Separation of Work and Personal LifeKeeping a clear distinction between professional and personal spheres can be crucial: - Maintaining Boundaries: Actors can choose to keep their work life and acting life separate, not discussing their acting career at their day jobs or during their time with loved ones. - Creating a Home Studio: Having a dedicated space for self-tapes and auditions at home can help create a physical separation between work and personal life. Time Management StrategiesEffective time management is essential for actors to balance their commitments: - Flexible Work Arrangements: Actors can request flexible work hours with their day jobs, such as adjusting their schedules to accommodate auditions and performances. - Utilizing Breaks Efficiently: Actors can use whatever available time, like early mornings, for self-tapes and auditions. Self-Care and Stress ManagementTaking care of their mental and physical health is crucial for actors to manage stress: - Regular Exercise: Engaging in physical activity, such as walking, can significantly improve mood and reduce stress levels. - Mindfulness Practices: Short-term mindfulness activities, like brief meditation or grounding techniques, can help reduce psychological stress and anxiety. - Scheduling Joy: Making time for activities that bring pleasure and relaxation is essential, even when work life becomes demanding. Building a Support NetworkHaving a strong support system is vital for actors to manage the emotional challenges of their profession: - Cultivating Social Support: Communicating with loved ones in a healthy, supportive way can serve as a buffer for stress and anxiety. - Professional Support: Many actors seek guidance from mental health professionals to help identify ways to better manage their situations. Maintaining Physical HealthTaking care of their physical well-being is crucial for actors to manage stress:
- Sleep Hygiene: Implementing a healthy sleep routine, such as setting consistent schedules and avoiding electronic devices before bedtime, can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. - Healthy Eating: Maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated are important aspects of managing stress, especially in the demanding entertainment industry. By implementing these strategies, actors can work towards managing balance between their personal and professional lives, ultimately reducing stress and improving their overall well-being. If you're feeling burned out or having trouble managing a work/life balance, we’re here to help. Take the first step towards emotional wellness. Book a Call At The Feeling Space, we specialize in helping creatives manage their mental health and navigate challenging industry landscapes. Email: [email protected] Phone: (424) 274-0518 Website: www.TheFeelingSpace.me Neurodivergence and CreativityNeurodivergence and creative blocks can have a complex relationship. Here are some key points about the connection between creative blocks and neurodivergence: Impact of Neurodivergence on CreativityIndividuals with neurodivergent brains, such as those with ADHD or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), often have unique cognitive processes that can enhance creativity. Their ability to think differently and see past conventional frameworks can lead to new ideas and perspectives. However, this neurological difference can sometimes contribute to creative blocks. Challenges for Neurodivergent Creatives |