The environment surrounding us plays a crucial role in shaping our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Even subtle differences can change how we think, feel, and act. Some of the environmental factors that may influence you include light, clutter, noise, and comfortability.…
Early life experiences, developmental trauma, adversity, chaos, and neglect can change the biology of the brain, resulting in complex emotional, psychological, and functional challenges in children and adults. Comprehensive psychological testing can identify symptoms and provide diagnoses but rarely takes into account the impact of a person’s early life experiences. In some cases, this makes it difficult for therapists to match effective interventions and treatment approaches to a patient’s developmental needs and current level of functioning. Learn more about the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT)™, a developmentally sensitive, neurobiology-informed approach to clinical problem solving, now offered at Dakota Family Services, Fargo, by Dr. Megan Spencer, Clinical Psychologist, and Jessie Mertz, LCSW, Therapist…
In the fast-paced world we live in today, burnout has become an increasingly common experience. Dealing with burnout requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the external demands placed on us and the internal resources we have to cope with stress. The following strategies will help you combat burnout and cultivate a healthier work-life balance.…
Pregnancy and being a new parent can be the most exciting experience you will ever have. It can also be confusing and challenging, which can take a toll on your mental health. For some, the challenges arise long before the arrival of the baby. For others, they come after, when you start to experience the highs and lows of parenting. Whether you are a mom, dad, or partner, know you are not alone.…
Many people actually confuse psychiatrists with psychologists and vice versa. And most people have never even heard of a psychometrist! All are valuable players on a mental health team, and each contribute their expertise to inform psychological diagnoses, recommendations, and treatment.…
Although you might think self-love is automatic, it can be harder to cultivate than it seems. You might think, “Well, of course I love myself.” But what about when you mess up or make a big mistake? Do you define who you are and whether you love yourself by what you say and do?…
PTSD can be frightening to experience, but the first step to recovery is understanding where it comes from and how it can be fixed.…
Mindfulness is about being in the moment. The benefits of mindfulness have been shown to be so great that many modern therapies have incorporated it into their practices. The most well-known use of mindfulness in therapy is with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, better known as DBT.…
While most of us have a general idea of moods, feelings, and emotions—you likely don't know their real differences. Learn what they are here.…
We all encounter challenges in life, but being able to cope with those challenges in healthy ways can make all the difference. These 10 easy steps to building resilience can help you get through any difficult circumstances you may face.…
When anxiety sets in, our breath can reconnect us to a sense of calm. Breathing exercises are a powerful way to reduce stress and regain control of your nervous system. Learn 5 breathing exercises for beginners.…
If you're overwhelmed by the responsibilities of day-to-day life—it can be difficult to take time for yourself (and mental health)—but there are small things that can be done to make "self-care" a little bit easier. Read our top tips here.…
