Psych Central

“What many of us know about therapy often comes from television and films, which typically provide an inaccurate picture — or really a caricature of the process. So naturally many myths and misconceptions abound. The problem is that these views can interfere with the therapeutic process or stop people from seeking professional counseling in the first place. Below, clinicians reveal the … Read more

“‘Empathy is truly the heart of the relationship,’ said Carin Goldstein, a licensed marriage and family therapist. ‘Without it, the relationship will struggle to survive.’ That’s because empathy requires compassion. And, without compassion, couples can’t develop a bond. ‘[A] bond is like glue: If there is no glue then everything falls apart.’ Psychotherapist Cindy Sigal, AMFT, … Read more

“Sometimes, just reading a few words of wisdom or support can help to soothe us and give us clarity. Reading certain books can move us into a kinder space. It can inspire and empower us. Or it can just make us smile — which is a gift when you haven’t felt good all day, and … Read more

“Sooo, you’ve been together for seven years; when are you finally going to get engaged? How come you two aren’t having kids yet? You know it’s harder to get pregnant as you age. For instance, my cousin, Tina… Do you really think you should eat that?  People say the darnedest things, don’t they? Maybe you, too, have … Read more

“A common reason people give for not seeking therapy is that, well, it’s basically like talking to a friend – except you don’t have to pay your friend to listen to you. However, seeing a therapist is very different from having a heart-to-heart with a loved one. ‘I love the cathartic feeling of having a deep conversation … Read more

“Therapy is highly misunderstood. That’s due to several key reasons. For starters, therapy is conducted behind closed doors, which makes it harder to fully and accurately capture. Clients don’t commonly discuss their sessions with others. Sadly, the stigma of seeking therapy prevents many people from sharing their experiences. ‘The ‘you must be crazy if you’re in therapy’ … Read more

“You’ve probably heard some version of the phrase: The only thing certain in life is uncertainty. The fact that life is filled with surprises, unexpected events and change – a whole lot of it – isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It’s simply reality. It’s just how life works. And it helps us grow. ‘Life challenges … Read more

“This month in our regular series, where therapists share a sneak peek of their personal and professional lives, we wanted to know what motivates clinicians to do what they do. Why did they pick this field? Why do they conduct therapy? Being a therapist is hard work. It’s emotionally exhausting. It’s challenging. It involves helping … Read more