Childless vs. Child-Free: A Nuanced Look at Two Paths Without Children

In a world where parenthood is often seen as a life milestone, choosing not to have children—or living without them due to circumstances—can be met with curiosity, confusion, or even criticism. Yet, it's important to recognize that there are differences between being childless and being child-free. These terms are not interchangeable; they reflect distinct life experiences, perspectives, and emotional realities. Childless usually refers to people who wanted children but, for various … [Read more...]

Why Seeing a Psychologist Can Be Life-Changing

It takes courage to start therapy. Chances are, whatever has been bothering you has been in your mind for a while and you have not been able to solve the problem on your own. So even if it feels scary, therapy provides a safe space to deal with thoughts and emotions, develop coping skills and improve your overall well-being.      One of the greatest benefits of therapy is that your relationship with your psychologist is confidential and non-judgemental. No matter how much you may be judging … [Read more...]

Avoiding Binge Eating

The December holidays have passed, your New Year’s resolutions have faded, and Super Bowl parties are over.  But you still find yourself perusing the pantry and refrigerator after meals and at night while you watch TV.  You may or may not crave a specific item but your brain is sending you messages about food. Should you have chocolate, cookies, potato chips or finish up the remaining lasagna?  What about a handful of those chocolate chips you were going to use to make cookies for your daughter? … [Read more...]

Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD

Joan was a combat veteran who made it through two wartime postings without having PTSD.  She prided herself on her toughness and resilience.  Never did she expect that she would be dealing with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD) once home in the United States, but Joan was raped while walking on a New York City street by herself one night.  She never reported it, felt embarrassed and ashamed that she had not fought off her attacker, and feared dealing with her symptoms of sleeplessness and … [Read more...]

Election Stress

According to the America Psychological Association’s Stress in American survey, more than 7 in 10 adults said that the future of the country is a major source of anxiety for them, with the presidential election following at 69%.  Worry about violence after the election is a prominent fear as is worry that democracy will end in the United States.  If you are one of those who does not sleep well because of the upcoming election and the stress of politics, here are some suggestions to help you … [Read more...]