I believe strongly in the mind/body/spirit connection, and have experienced firsthand how mindfulness can help you overcome anxiety and depression. However, if you want to make real changes in your life, it’s also helpful to have a deeper understanding of how you came to be who you are so you can learn to view yourself and your struggles in a different light.
There is no doubt that the state of our world, our environment, and the unjust racial systems our country was built upon all play a major role in our collective mental health. I myself am a feminist, an LGBTQIA+ advocate, and an antiracist, and these values are naturally a part of my therapeutic approach.
I have learned that self-awareness is an important part of the change process, but not the only part – action is just as critical. Additionally, it takes a lot of courage to look at who you are, learn to let go of the thoughts and beliefs that are holding you back, and then take action to change them. But I promise, what’s waiting for you on the other side is so worth it.
One of my favorite parts about being a therapist is that I am constantly learning. I am currently in the process of completing the MAPS MDMA-assisted Psychotherapy training program. I have also trained and/or taken coursework in the areas of Positive Psychology, Expressive Arts Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Biofeedback, Creativity and Spirituality in Healthcare, Jungian Psychology and the Hero’s Journey, Somatic Therapy, and more.
You’ve taken the first step by being here. The next step is to reach out.
Paige Rechtman, LMHC © 2021