Latest news with #EMDR
Globe and Mail
6 hours ago
- General
- Globe and Mail
Therapist Angela Jacobs Helps Patients Achieve Lasting Transformations and Healing
When clients need reflective counseling, Chiral Center Counseling PLLC is the ideal place to feel intensely seen and heard. Therapist Angela Jacobs specializes in trauma, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), relationship and narcissistic abuse, neurodivergence, and substance use for couples and individuals. Discover the difference that finding the right therapist makes at Chiral Center Counseling PLLC, where Angela Jacobs, LMHCA, helps clients feel heard, seen, and understood like never before. Jacobs helps clients get to the root of longstanding struggles, so they can heal and go on to move mountains, with professional support and guidance every step of the journey. Jacobs' unique approach to therapy makes her an ideal therapist for people looking to 'dig deep and get shit done.' Jacobs spent her early career as a successful entrepreneur, running an award-winning winery until her daughter was born. After leaving that industry, she returned to school for accounting, but was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly after graduating. During cancer treatment, she realized spending the rest of her life doing taxes would be far less rewarding than helping others build better lives in meaningful ways. Her immense store of varied life experience helps Jacobs provide exceptional care, empathy, and understanding to her clients. 'I am passionate about helping my clients find support, healing, and peace that will pay off in dividends of wellness far into the future,' Jacobs said. Patients receiving therapy from Jacobs at Chiral Center Counseling have praised her outstanding perspective, which she approaches from three angles: cognitive, emotional, and compassionate. Jacobs provides a nonjudgmental environment where clients receive careful yet firm assistance toward their goals. 'You may not know it, but grief, trauma, rejection, abandonment, and more could be holding you back from living your most fulfilling life,' Jacobs said. 'Let's process the hurt. You owe it to yourself to make time for your mental health.' Schedule a compatibility call today to learn whether Jacobs and Chiral Center Counseling offer the right setting for getting things done and making meaningful changes. The 15-minute compatibility call is free, and all session pricing is posted on the website. Jacobs offers equine-assisted therapy in Washington state near Chelan and Manson. She also provides numerous treatment options focused on depression, anxiety, substance use, impulsivity, ADHD and other neurodiversities, trauma and PTSD, grief, abandonment, attachment issues, and much more. Visit the Chiral Center Counseling website to learn more about psychotherapist Angela Jacobs or to schedule an appointment. Treatment is available for teens, adults, individuals, couples, and families to deal with a multitude of mental health conditions and emotional difficulties. Media Contact Company Name: Chiral Center Wellness PLL Contact Person: Angela Jacobs Email: Send Email Country: United States Website:
Scottish Sun
3 days ago
- Health
- Scottish Sun
The 6-step plan to beat ‘decision paralysis' – plus the 3 reasons you fall victim
Read on to find out why you might constantly struggle to make choices INDECISIVE MUCH? The 6-step plan to beat 'decision paralysis' – plus the 3 reasons you fall victim Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) THROUGHOUT our lives, we will face many crossroads – moving home, changing jobs, starting or staying in a relationship – and constant decision-making can be overwhelming. Decision paralysis – AKA finding it so hard to make a choice that we don't do anything – often wins. 4 Three experts share their six tips for coming to a decision you're happy with Other factors, such as anxiety, perfectionism and neurodiversity, can impact our ability to make decisions, too. And for women, deciding what we really want can be even harder. 'Often, we are trying to make other people happy, when it is more important that we make ourselves happy with our decisions,' says chartered psychologist Dr Sheena Kumar. So, what happens in our brains when we're faced with a decision? 'We weigh past experiences, potential outcomes and personal values to arrive at a choice,' says Sheena. But emotions like fear, excitement or uncertainty all have an impact, too. Here, three experts share their six tips for coming to a decision you're happy with. Step One: Pause And Focus First, stop and tune in to what your body is saying. 'When faced with big choices, your nervous system may enter fight, flight or freeze mode, making clear thinking impossible,' explains Sarah Jones, psychotherapist and EMDR therapist. 4 It's important to take time to breathe and calm yourself Credit: Alamy Fight, flight and freeze are evolutionary stress responses to danger – fight prepares you to confront the threat, flight makes you want to escape, and freeze makes you, well, freeze. Do you think you've got ADHD because of TikTok? These are the signs 'When we are in survival mode, our bodies prioritise protecting themselves over problem-solving,' says Sarah. Before analysing your options, take a moment to check in with yourself. 'How does your body feel? Is your chest tight? Is your stomach churning? If so, take slow, deep breaths, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth, and focus on the sensation of breathing. Repeat to yourself: 'I am safe',' Sarah adds. Calmer? Now you can focus on what's at the heart of your decision. It may sound simple, but Sheena suggests clearly defining the decision, asking: 'What do I need to decide?' Step Two: Free Yourself From People's Opinions Now comes the hard part. 'Ask yourself: 'If no one else's opinion mattered, what would I truly want?'' says Sarah. 'Write down whatever comes up. "Then reflect on whether any of your concerns stem from other people's expectations, rather than your own desires. "Many women have been raised to prioritise others' needs over their own, often without realising it. "Even if you consider yourself independent, societal messaging can still shape your decision-making process.' But that doesn't mean you need to make decisions alone. 'Gather relevant information to understand your options,' says Sheena. For example, try talking to people who have chosen each option, so you can listen to their experiences, then decide for yourself. Step Three: Understand What's Holding You Back Thoughts running on a loop? Writing everything down will help make things feel more manageable, says life coach Kimberley O'Sullivan. 4 Writing everything down will help make things feel more manageable Credit: Alamy She believes the key to good decision-making is identifying 'self-limiting beliefs' and negative thoughts. You can do this by assigning the word 'fact' or 'fiction' to the thoughts you've written down. 'For example, if you're weighing up a new job offer, 'the salary is £10k more' is fact, whereas: 'I may not fit in with the team' is fiction,' she says. 'Fiction' is often the voice of self-doubt. ' Once you've looked at each limitation and have clarity that what's holding you back is a set of false, limiting beliefs, you are left with facts and data to help make an informed decision.' Step Four Let Go Of Perfection What if limiting beliefs come from a trait or mindset, such as perfectionism? 'Many people believe a decision must be 100% right or else it's a mistake, but this kind of thinking keeps you stuck,' says Sarah. 'Instead of searching for the perfect choice, ask yourself: 'What is a good enough option that moves me forward?' "Also, it's OK to change your mind.' Step Five: Test It Out To put your decision to the test, use the 'future self' visualisation, which involves imagining yourself six months or even a year from now, having made the big decision. 'Picture your day-to-day life,' says Sarah. 'What's changed? How do you feel? "Now, do the same for an alternative decision. "How does that version of your future feel in comparison? "Often, your emotional response will provide valuable insight,' she says. You could even 'try on' your decision mentally for 48 hours. 'Act as if you have already chosen a path,' she says. "If you're debating moving abroad, tell yourself: 'I'm moving abroad', and notice how you feel. 'Does this bring a sense of excitement, relief or peace? "Or does it trigger anxiety and resistance? "Your emotions can offer more clarity than over-analysing ever will,' she says. Step Six: Move things on Once you've decided, let go of the idea of possibly taking the 'wrong' path. 'Make your decision with confidence, take action and reflect on the outcome to improve future decision-making,' says Sheena. 4 Making a bad decision is still better than not making one at all Credit: Alamy 'Making any decision is better than staying indecisive. "Remember, you can always reflect and choose differently next time.' Sarah, too, believes that making a bad decision is still better than not making one at all. 'It's important to make a decision and then learn from it, rather than stay in paralysis and let opportunity pass you by, or change your mind if it is not working out,' she says. 'Often, there is no such thing as the 'right' decision – just ones we are happy with in hindsight.' And if you're still feeling worried? Remember that not all decisions are final. When it comes to big decisions over something like a new job, partner or moving to a new location, Kimberley says: 'You can always try something new. "Setbacks and adjustments are all a part of life – you just need to believe you can navigate and pivot your way through anything you experience.' Why Do I Agonise Over it? If you constantly struggle to make choices, it might be a sign that. . . You Grew Up In A Critical Home If mistakes weren't tolerated in your childhood, you may struggle to trust your own judgement as an adult. Instead of seeing decisions as opportunities, they can feel like tests you must pass. You're Seeking Approval If you're constantly weighing up how others will react, or you want to please people, you may struggle to prioritise your own needs. You May Be Neuro-diverse Conditions such as ADHD and autism can make decision-making harder, due to executive-function challenges, sensory overwhelm and difficulty filtering options. The brain can freeze when faced with too much information. Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme - Sun Club.
The Sun
3 days ago
- General
- The Sun
The 6-step plan to beat ‘decision paralysis' – plus the 3 reasons you fall victim
THROUGHOUT our lives, we will face many crossroads – moving home, changing jobs, starting or staying in a relationship – and constant decision-making can be overwhelming. Decision paralysis – AKA finding it so hard to make a choice that we don't do anything – often wins. Other factors, such as anxiety, perfectionism and neurodiversity, can impact our ability to make decisions, too. And for women, deciding what we really want can be even harder. 'Often, we are trying to make other people happy, when it is more important that we make ourselves happy with our decisions,' says chartered psychologist Dr Sheena Kumar. So, what happens in our brains when we're faced with a decision? 'We weigh past experiences, potential outcomes and personal values to arrive at a choice,' says Sheena. But emotions like fear, excitement or uncertainty all have an impact, too. Here, three experts share their six tips for coming to a decision you're happy with. Step One: Pause And Focus First, stop and tune in to what your body is saying. 'When faced with big choices, your nervous system may enter fight, flight or freeze mode, making clear thinking impossible,' explains Sarah Jones, psychotherapist and EMDR therapist. Fight, flight and freeze are evolutionary stress responses to danger – fight prepares you to confront the threat, flight makes you want to escape, and freeze makes you, well, freeze. Do you think you've got ADHD because of TikTok? These are the signs 'When we are in survival mode, our bodies prioritise protecting themselves over problem-solving,' says Sarah. Before analysing your options, take a moment to check in with yourself. 'How does your body feel? Is your chest tight? Is your stomach churning? If so, take slow, deep breaths, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth, and focus on the sensation of breathing. Repeat to yourself: 'I am safe',' Sarah adds. Calmer? Now you can focus on what's at the heart of your decision. It may sound simple, but Sheena suggests clearly defining the decision, asking: 'What do I need to decide?' Step Two: Free Yourself From People's Opinions Now comes the hard part. 'Ask yourself: 'If no one else's opinion mattered, what would I truly want?'' says Sarah. 'Write down whatever comes up. "Then reflect on whether any of your concerns stem from other people's expectations, rather than your own desires. "Many women have been raised to prioritise others' needs over their own, often without realising it. "Even if you consider yourself independent, societal messaging can still shape your decision-making process.' But that doesn't mean you need to make decisions alone. 'Gather relevant information to understand your options,' says Sheena. For example, try talking to people who have chosen each option, so you can listen to their experiences, then decide for yourself. Step Three: Understand What's Holding You Back Thoughts running on a loop? Writing everything down will help make things feel more manageable, says life coach Kimberley O'Sullivan. She believes the key to good decision-making is identifying ' self-limiting beliefs ' and negative thoughts. You can do this by assigning the word 'fact' or 'fiction' to the thoughts you've written down. 'For example, if you're weighing up a new job offer, 'the salary is £10k more' is fact, whereas: 'I may not fit in with the team' is fiction,' she says. 'Fiction' is often the voice of self-doubt. ' Once you've looked at each limitation and have clarity that what's holding you back is a set of false, limiting beliefs, you are left with facts and data to help make an informed decision.' Step Four Let Go Of Perfection What if limiting beliefs come from a trait or mindset, such as perfectionism? 'Many people believe a decision must be 100% right or else it's a mistake, but this kind of thinking keeps you stuck,' says Sarah. 'Instead of searching for the perfect choice, ask yourself: 'What is a good enough option that moves me forward?' "Also, it's OK to change your mind.' Step Five: Test It Out To put your decision to the test, use the 'future self' visualisation, which involves imagining yourself six months or even a year from now, having made the big decision. 'Picture your day-to-day life,' says Sarah. 'What's changed? How do you feel? "Now, do the same for an alternative decision. "How does that version of your future feel in comparison? "Often, your emotional response will provide valuable insight,' she says. You could even 'try on' your decision mentally for 48 hours. 'Act as if you have already chosen a path,' she says. "If you're debating moving abroad, tell yourself: 'I'm moving abroad', and notice how you feel. 'Does this bring a sense of excitement, relief or peace? "Or does it trigger anxiety and resistance? "Your emotions can offer more clarity than over-analysing ever will,' she says. Step Six: Move things on Once you've decided, let go of the idea of possibly taking the 'wrong' path. 'Make your decision with confidence, take action and reflect on the outcome to improve future decision-making,' says Sheena. 4 'Making any decision is better than staying indecisive. "Remember, you can always reflect and choose differently next time.' Sarah, too, believes that making a bad decision is still better than not making one at all. 'It's important to make a decision and then learn from it, rather than stay in paralysis and let opportunity pass you by, or change your mind if it is not working out,' she says. 'Often, there is no such thing as the 'right' decision – just ones we are happy with in hindsight.' And if you're still feeling worried? Remember that not all decisions are final. When it comes to big decisions over something like a new job, partner or moving to a new location, Kimberley says: 'You can always try something new. "Setbacks and adjustments are all a part of life – you just need to believe you can navigate and pivot your way through anything you experience.' Why Do I Agonise Over it? If you constantly struggle to make choices, it might be a sign that. . . You Grew Up In A Critical Home If mistakes weren't tolerated in your childhood, you may struggle to trust your own judgement as an adult. Instead of seeing decisions as opportunities, they can feel like tests you must pass. You're Seeking Approval If you're constantly weighing up how others will react, or you want to please people, you may struggle to prioritise your own needs. Conditions such as ADHD and autism can make decision-making harder, due to executive-function challenges, sensory overwhelm and difficulty filtering options. The brain can freeze when faced with too much information.
Elle
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Elle
Miley Cyrus Explains Why She Isn't ‘Overly Passionate' About Becoming a Mom
This week, Miley Cyrus discussed her development as an artist over the years on an episode of The Interview podcast by The New York Times with Lulu Garcia-Navarro, from her time as a child star to now. In one segment, Cyrus explained how she makes business decisions; specifically, she shared why she is one of few pop stars on her level who doesn't have her own makeup line. 'My stepdad asked me the other day, 'Why are you the only one without a makeup line?'' Cyrus shared. 'I was like, 'Cause that's not my passion.' He goes, 'That's the right answer.' And it made so much sense. It's like, 'I don't have a makeup line because I'm not a makeup artist.'' She connected the thought to questions about becoming a parent, saying, 'I feel that way about motherhood. It's just never been something that I've been overly passionate about. It's a lot of responsibility and devotion and energy, and if you're not passionate about that, I don't know how you do sleepless nights and 18 years of what my mom dealt with.' But Cyrus doesn't seem to hold any negative opinions about the musical artists who are also passionate about makeup (or parenthood). She discussed her friendship with pop star Ariana Grande, who has her own line, r.e.m. beauty. The two have bonded over their challenging experiences with acting as children, which Cyrus said she has been working on with EMDR therapy. 'Ariana says there should be therapy for child actors, and I totally agree,' said Cyrus. 'There should be a weekly check-in. I've been doing very consistent therapy since I was 17 or 18 years old, so I think I've cleared up a lot of the feelings that I had about being a child star, and now I don't notice it so much because I don't notice it in me.' She continued, 'I guess the only thing I notice is when people are working too hard. I met Sabrina Carpenter a couple of times, and every time I see her I have the urge to ask her if she's okay. I know what it feels like to fry yourself, and I don't want anyone else to get fried. But I like all the new girls. I think they're all unique and are very found.'
Associated Press
27-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
EMDR-Based Mobile Apps Show Promise in Reducing PTSD Symptoms
KEW, VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA, May 27, 2025 / / -- A new series of smartphone apps developed by Australian psychologist Mark Grant is delivering promising results for people living with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD ). In a recent pilot study, users who engaged with the apps regularly over three months experienced a 40% reduction in PTSD symptoms, and significantly decreased comorbid health problems. With rates of PTSD on the rise globally due to war, the pandemic, and social unrest, these accessible and affordable tools could mark a breakthrough in how trauma is managed in everyday life. The Healing Trauma App Series ( HTAS ) is designed to address four of the most common problems associated with PTSD: anxiety, medically unexplained pain, insomnia and decreased self-confidence. 1. Anxiety Release App: Targets anxiety associated with PTSD. 2. Overcoming Pain App: Targets pain/medically unexplained symptoms associated with PTSD. 3. Sleep Restore App: Addresses insomnia associated with PTSD. 4. Calm and Confident App: Addresses the impact of trauma and PTSD on identity. In the pilot study, participants who used the app series consistently over three months experienced a remarkable 40% reduction in PTSD symptoms. Physical symptoms commonly linked to trauma, such as sleep disturbances, fatigue and chronic pain, also showed significant improvement. These positive outcomes were largely maintained at a six-month follow-up. The apps proved effective across a wide range of trauma experiences, including childhood abuse, assault, car accidents and medical trauma. Many users found it helpful to use different apps for different issues, tailoring their support to their needs. Notably, participants were more likely to stick with the program when a therapist recommended the apps, highlighting the importance of professional guidance alongside digital support. A larger follow-up study is being planned. The apps are built on the principles of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR ), a cutting-edge trauma therapy that works by helping the brain 'rewire' itself. EMDR targets the neural pathways that store traumatic memories and pain by combining focused attention with rhythmic, bilateral stimulation, such as sound or movement. This dual approach activates both emotional and rational parts of the brain, promoting healing from the inside out. Because it works directly with the brain's natural ability to adapt (neuroplasticity), EMDR has been shown to deliver faster results than traditional therapies like exposure therapy. One app user shared: 'As soon as I hear the bilateral stimulation, I seem to calm down. Having the first calm day in my life, it's a bit unnerving.' Each app in the series is designed to be used on an 'as-needed' basis, giving users the flexibility to manage whatever symptoms they're experiencing in the moment, whether it's anxiety, insomnia, pain, or low confidence. Since trauma symptoms can shift day to day, or even hour to hour, having access to all four apps gives users a personalised toolkit for support whenever they need it. The apps are affordably priced at just USD $5.00 each, or users can access the full bundle for only USD $10.00. In a show of global solidarity, 1,000 downloads were recently donated to Ukrainian citizens and soldiers affected by war-related trauma. For more information visit ENDS For more information, contact Mark on (+61) 0402 122 173 or email [email protected] Zhai Y, Du X. Trends in Diagnosed Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Acute Stress Disorder in US College Students, 2017-2022. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7(5):e2413874. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.13874 Mark Grant Mark Grant MA +61 402 122 173 [email protected] Visit us on social media: Facebook YouTube Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
