Who would have thought of exercise as a prescription for depression? Here’s the link to an article which shows clear, scientific evidence that exercise helps to alter mood and can act as an anti-depressant. It recognises that further studies are needed to develop the research, but nevertheless offers some hope to those coping with depression, who often feel that they are … Read More
Solutions
Introverts/Extroverts
Introverts/Extroverts, which one are you? Have you always been made to feel that being an introvert is not desirable in the workplace? For all those introverts here is a thought provoking talk by Susan Cain on the power of introverts. She is insightful on the differences between introvert and extrovert creativity, productivity and contribution. Also some fun suggestions, for all, on … Read More
Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance is a frequent topic of concern raised by clients in therapy sessions. This is an excellent article which asks if the work-life balance is a myth. It puts forward a different way of considering the subject.
Debunking 20 common misconceptions about sex
I have the happy task of sending on this link debunking 20 common misconceptions about sex. Debunking is often a part of conversations in therapy, since much of therapy is about questioning accepted ‘wisdom’, myths, stereotypes, labels and assumptions. In daily life they often lead to misunderstanding and make communication between people difficult and stressful. This … Read More
How the brain responds to pain
This clear and simple video clip on how the brain responds to pain is for those clients who cope with chronic pain on a daily basis. My posting on this subject is prompted by one of my clients who set out to discover as much as he could about managing chronic pain. After feeling largely frustrated … Read More
The Question Why
When enquiring about solution-focused therapy some prospective clients worry that this approach will exclude them from understanding why their problems have arisen. Answers to the question why are better left to emerge indirectly, during the quest for solutions, as they then feel less overwhelming and uncontrollable. During solution focused counselling, a skilled SFBT practitioner will ask … Read More
Your Plan – Reality
I’m sure many will identify with this cartoon ‘Your plan – Reality’ This may help (I find it indispensible) and is in keeping with a solution-focused philosophy. http://thenextweb.com/lifehacks/2014/01/05/write-list-wont-hurt-productivity/?utm_source=Twitter&awesm=tnw.to_tSwr&utm_medium=Spreadus&utm_campaign=social%20media#!rCHMQ Wishing you all a happy and fulfilling new year.
How to measure where you’re at and where you want to be
During solution-focused therapy we use simple tools to measure the extent of a problem or difficulty. This scaling of an issue is useful because a) both the therapist and the client gain an understanding of how things stand, and b) it gives everyone in the room some assurance that they’re communicating well and singing off … Read More
Relationship Advice
I work with many couples who come to see me at various stages of crisis in their relationship, so I found a recent blog post on relationship advice from LifeHacker to be pertinent. The problems central to this relationship failure are typical of those which couples bring to relationship counselling. What I particularly like is … Read More
Solving Problems in Therapy
It’s hard to describe how overwhelming a problem can become and how insurmountable it can feel; you believe you are so completely stuck that it’s impossible to resolve. I work with many people who are in that place when they come to see me. Clients come to see me with a range of different … Read More