Samantha Hanson, LPC, ATR, Clini-Coach®

Category Mental Health

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What is the Difference between: Trauma Specialists and General Trauma Trained Providers?

Understanding the Differences Between Specialists and General Trained Professionals

When seeking help for trauma-related issues, understanding the distinctions between a trauma specialist and a general trauma-trained professional can help you find the support that best suits your needs. Both types of professionals bring valuable skills to the table, but their expertise and focus differ in meaningful ways.

Here’s a closer look at what sets them apart, along with tips on choosing the right professional for your situation.

General Trauma-Trained Professionals

General trauma-trained professionals have undergone training to recognize and address trauma-related concerns in their clients. While this training enhances their ability to provide informed and sensitive care, it is often part of a broader skill set rather than their primary focus.

Key Features:

  • Breadth of Knowledge: They have foundational knowledge of how trauma impacts mental health and behavior
  • Continuing education requirements: In order to renew license, providers are required to take minimum 30 credits of training in various areas to stay up todate as much as possible with education and modern day concerns. Many providers may go over this amount in areas that may have a greater need pending the population of clients they serve.

Choosing the Right Level of Care: Why Specialist Training Matters

Imagine that you’ve broken your arm. Would you seek help from a therapist or a medical doctor? Would you visit a pharmacy or head straight to the emergency room? The answer depends on the situation and the level of expertise required. The same principle applies to mental health care.

Mental health professionals vary in their training and areas of expertise. Some have general training in trauma-informed care, which equips them to address trauma effectively within their broader scope of practice. Others pursue specialized training, which involves an intensive focus on specific approaches to trauma therapy, such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), somatic experiencing, or trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). Other types of Specialists include:

  • Brainspotting
  • ART (Accellerated Resolution Therapy)
  • Biofeedbacl
  • Prolonged Exposure Therapy
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
  • Somatic Therapy
  • Internal Family Systems Therapy
  • Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
  • Polyvagal Therapy,

Becoming a trauma specialist often requires:

  • Prerequisite Experience: Professionals may need to accumulate substantial time in practice, often several years, before qualifying for specialist programs.
  • Supervised Training Hours: Many specialist certifications require between 500 and 2,000 hours of practice alongside formal training and supervision.
  • Financial Investment: Specialist programs can be costly, and not all therapists can afford the expense.
  • Time Commitment: Balancing rigorous training with an existing caseload and personal responsibilities can be a challenge for many providers.

These hurdles don’t diminish the value of general trauma-trained professionals, who can still offer effective and compassionate care. However, specialists bring a deeper level of expertise to complex trauma cases.

If you’re looking for a trauma specialist or need help navigating your options, leave a comment. Samantha is happy to assist with referrals to professionals who match your needs. The right provider is out there, and finding the right fit can make all the difference in your healing journey.

you are not alone quote board on brown wooden frame
November: A Month of Mental Health Awareness and Compassion

This year has flown by, and we are already mid November. November offers us a unique opportunity to reflect, raise awareness, and foster compassion. It’s a month dedicated not only to celebrating cultural and personal identity but also to recognizing the profound impact of mental health on our lives and communities. Let’s explore how November’s observances connect to mental health and why they’re so crucial in fostering understanding and support.

National Family Caregivers Month

Caregivers play a vital role in supporting loved ones, often at great emotional and physical expense to themselves. Many face burnout, stress, and isolation as they juggle their responsibilities. This month encourages us to honor caregivers by recognizing their challenges, offering resources, and ensuring they feel supported in their own mental health journeys.

an old man lying down on a bed with a woman standing near him
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How You Can Help:

  • Offer a listening ear to a caregiver in your life.
  • Encourage them to seek respite care or counseling if needed.
  • Share resources like caregiver support groups and hotlines.
  • Be empathetic if they ask and do not follow through, the amount of responsibility they have felt for so long may be hard to see past.

National Diabetes Month

Living with diabetes is more than a physical health challenge—it also impacts mental health. The constant need for monitoring, management, and lifestyle adjustments can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. For many, this journey highlights the intersection of physical and mental well-being.

woman in white shirt holding a glucometer
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How You Can Help:

  • Learn about diabetes and the emotional toll it can take.
  • Support loved ones by encouraging healthy habits without judgment.
  • Advocate for better mental health resources in chronic illness care.

Native American Heritage Month

This month honors the history, culture, and contributions of Native American communities while acknowledging the systemic barriers they face. Generational trauma, health disparities, and a lack of access to mental health services are persistent challenges in these communities. Celebrating their resilience while advocating for equity is key.

photo of two native americans playing woodwind instruments
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How You Can Help:

  • Educate yourself about Native American history and present-day struggles.
  • Support organizations providing culturally competent mental health care for Indigenous people.
  • Celebrate and amplify Native voices in your community.

Transgender Awareness Week (Nov. 13-19) & Transgender Day of Remembrance (Nov. 20)

Transgender individuals face unique mental health challenges, including discrimination, family rejection, and an increased risk of violence. Transgender Awareness Week highlights the need for understanding and advocacy, while the Transgender Day of Remembrance honors those lost to anti-transgender violence.

cubes spelling the word transgender
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How You Can Help:

  • Use inclusive language and respect people’s pronouns.
  • Advocate for trans-inclusive mental health policies.
  • Remember and honor trans lives by attending local or virtual events.

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day (Nov. 23)

This day is a time for those who have lost someone to suicide to come together, share their stories, and heal. It underscores the importance of breaking the stigma around suicide and prioritizing mental health support for those left behind.

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How You Can Help:

  • Attend or promote events supporting survivors of suicide loss.
  • Familiarize yourself with resources like the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
  • Offer empathy and understanding to those who have experienced this loss.

Bringing It All Together

November reminds us that mental health is a shared responsibility. By acknowledging these observances and the people they impact, we can create a more empathetic and supportive world. Whether through learning, advocacy, or simply showing up for someone, every action matters.

Let this month inspire us to look out for each other and to prioritize mental health—not just in November, but all year long.

What are you doing to support mental health awareness this month? Share your thoughts and let’s keep the conversation going.

i voted sticker lot
How to Prepare for Stress Around the Election and Differences of Opinion

Election seasons can be stressful, especially when strong opinions and political divides come into play. As the upcoming presidential election approaches, it’s common for people to feel overwhelmed by news, discussions, and debates. Additionally, conversations with friends, family, or colleagues who hold differing views can lead to tension. Here are some ways to prepare for and manage election-related stress while navigating differences of opinion.

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1. Set Boundaries with Media Consumption

Constant exposure to political news and debates can fuel anxiety and stress. While staying informed is important, it’s equally important to limit your intake. Set specific times for checking news and avoid doom-scrolling. If you find social media overwhelming, consider muting certain topics or stepping away from platforms for a while. Protecting your mental health should be a priority.

2. Practice Self-Care

Election seasons can be emotionally taxing, especially when issues close to your heart are at stake. Make time for self-care, whether it’s taking a walk, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in hobbies that help you recharge. Establishing routines that allow for moments of calm will help you stay grounded, even amidst political noise.

self care isn t selfish signage
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3. Engage in Constructive Conversations

Talking about politics doesn’t have to turn into a heated argument. Approach discussions with empathy and curiosity. Instead of trying to “win” the conversation, focus on understanding where the other person is coming from. Asking open-ended questions and listening without interrupting can help keep the conversation respectful, even when you disagree. Acknowledging that people’s experiences shape their beliefs can foster understanding and reduce tension.

4. Set Boundaries with Loved Ones

If political discussions are too emotionally charged, it’s okay to set boundaries. Let friends and family know that you’d prefer to avoid political conversations if they become stressful or unproductive. Respecting each other’s limits and agreeing to disagree can help maintain relationships without letting politics take over.

5. Stay Grounded in Your Values

During an election season, it’s easy to feel like your personal values are being challenged or that you’re under pressure to change your views. Stay true to your values while remaining open to learning. Focus on what you can control—your vote, your actions, and how you treat others. Letting go of the need to convince others of your position can reduce stress and frustration.

6. Take Action

If you feel powerless during the election, find ways to channel your energy into meaningful action. Volunteering for a cause or a campaign you believe in, donating to organizations that support your values, or simply having conversations with people who are undecided can give you a sense of agency. Taking action, no matter how small, can provide relief from election-related anxiety.

7. Prepare for Post-Election Conversations

The outcome of the election may lead to further debates or celebrations depending on who you talk to. Be prepared to handle post-election discussions with the same grace and empathy as before. If the outcome is emotionally difficult for you, give yourself time to process it before engaging in conversations. Similarly, if your side “wins,” approach those who may feel disappointed with sensitivity.

woman behind a sign and holding an american flag
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8. Know When to Step Away

If the stress of the election becomes overwhelming, it’s important to know when to step away from conversations, media, or even social gatherings. You don’t need to be constantly involved in the political conversation to care about the outcome. Taking breaks for your mental and emotional well-being is essential.

Navigating the stress of an election and differences of opinion can be challenging, but with the right strategies in place, you can maintain your peace of mind. Focus on what matters most to you, protect your mental health, and remember that it’s possible to respectfully coexist with differing perspectives.

couple walking at pathway between trees
Fall Fitness: Outdoor Activities to Stay Active as the Weather Cools
Hiking trail
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As the summer heat fades and cooler, crisper air sets in, fall becomes an ideal time to refresh your fitness routine. Whether you’re an avid exerciser or just getting started, autumn offers plenty of opportunities to stay active outdoors while enjoying the beauty of the changing season. From hiking to outdoor yoga, the fall months provide a perfect backdrop for fitness activities that are both invigorating and enjoyable. Here are some ideas for staying active this fall while taking advantage of the weather and seasonal scenery.

1. Hiking and Nature Walks

Fall is the perfect time to hit the trails and enjoy the vibrant autumn foliage. Whether you’re exploring local parks, nature reserves, or mountain trails, hiking is a fantastic full-body workout that allows you to connect with nature while improving cardiovascular health.

  • Health Benefits: Hiking improves endurance, strengthens muscles, and promotes cardiovascular health. The varied terrain also engages your core and leg muscles, giving you a more comprehensive workout than walking on flat surfaces.
  • Tip: Dress in layers, as fall temperatures can change quickly. Make sure to bring a water bottle and choose footwear with good grip for potentially damp or slippery paths.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, nature walks are an excellent way to stay active while taking in the sights and sounds of fall. They’re a great alternative to intense hikes, especially for beginners or families.

person stands on brown pathway
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2. Running in the Crisp Autumn Air

Running during the fall is often more enjoyable than during the summer, thanks to cooler temperatures and scenic routes filled with changing leaves. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, fall offers the perfect environment for outdoor running.

  • Health Benefits: Running improves cardiovascular health, burns calories, and strengthens your lower body. Running outdoors also boosts your mental health by reducing stress and increasing your exposure to fresh air and natural surroundings.
  • Tip: Use fall as an opportunity to sign up for a local 5K or charity run. Many communities host autumn-themed races, such as “Turkey Trots,” which can keep you motivated and add a sense of accomplishment to your routine.
woman in red sweater standing on pathway
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3. Outdoor Yoga and Stretching

Take your yoga practice outdoors this fall to embrace the peaceful, serene surroundings of nature. Practicing yoga in a park, your backyard, or even on a quiet trail allows you to feel more connected to the environment while benefiting from the calming effects of mindful movement.

  • Health Benefits: Yoga improves flexibility, balance, and core strength while reducing stress and promoting mental clarity. Stretching in the cooler air can help prevent injuries and increase circulation, making it an excellent activity before or after a more intense workout.
  • Tip: Bring a thicker yoga mat to stay warm on cooler surfaces. Fall is also a great time to practice grounding poses, such as Tree Pose or Warrior II, which encourage stability and balance, mirroring the changes in nature.
woman inn sports bra exercising
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4. Cycling and Mountain Biking

Cycling is a low-impact exercise that allows you to cover more distance while enjoying the fall scenery. Whether you prefer road biking or mountain biking, fall provides a refreshing change from summer’s heat, with cooler weather making longer rides more comfortable.

  • Health Benefits: Cycling builds leg strength, enhances cardiovascular endurance, and improves joint mobility. Mountain biking also engages your core and upper body as you navigate challenging terrain, making it a full-body workout.
  • Tip: Invest in gloves, as fall weather can make your hands cold during longer rides. Always wear a helmet and follow proper safety guidelines, especially if you’re biking in areas with fallen leaves or wet paths.
man on bike trip in mountains
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5. Group Sports and Outdoor Games

Fall is a great time to gather friends and family for outdoor sports and games. Whether it’s a casual game of soccer, flag football, or even Frisbee in the park, playing group sports is a fun way to stay active and enjoy the crisp air.

  • Health Benefits: Group sports help improve coordination, build strength, and enhance cardiovascular fitness. They also offer the added benefits of social interaction, teamwork, and mental well-being through fun and friendly competition.
  • Tip: Take advantage of community sports leagues that often start up in the fall. These leagues can include everything from softball to touch football and are a great way to stay active while making new connections.
yellow and black tennis ball in brown soil
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6. Fall-Themed Outdoor Boot Camps

Many fitness instructors offer seasonal outdoor boot camps, incorporating fun, fall-themed workouts in parks or open spaces. These high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions usually involve a mix of cardio, strength training, and bodyweight exercises, all while surrounded by the beauty of fall.

  • Health Benefits: Boot camp workouts are designed to improve cardiovascular fitness, burn calories, and build muscle strength. The variety of exercises also prevents boredom and challenges different muscle groups.
  • Tip: Wear breathable layers, as you’ll likely warm up quickly during intense exercises. Bring a water bottle and a towel, as outdoor boot camps can get sweaty even in cooler weather.
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7. Kayaking or Paddleboarding in Cooler Waters

Fall can also be an ideal time to hit the water for activities like kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding. The calm waters and cooler temperatures make for a serene and peaceful workout while allowing you to take in the stunning fall scenery from a different perspective.

  • Health Benefits: Kayaking and paddleboarding engage your core, shoulders, arms, and back, making them great upper-body workouts. These activities also promote balance and coordination while providing a low-impact, relaxing way to stay active.
  • Tip Wear moisture-wicking clothing and a lightweight jacket, as the water can be cooler during fall. Always follow safety guidelines, including wearing a life jacket, especially in unpredictable fall weather.
man on surf board
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8. Gardening and Yard Work
Though many associate gardening with spring and summer, fall is also a great time for outdoor yard work. Raking leaves, planting fall flowers, or preparing your garden for winter are excellent ways to stay active while being productive outdoors.

  • Health Benefits: Gardening and yard work burn calories, build strength, and improve flexibility, all while providing the added mental benefits of spending time in nature.
  • Tip: Incorporate squats and lunges as you pick up leaves or plant bulbs to make the most of your movements. Stretch before and after to prevent stiffness, as cooler weather can make muscles tighter.
girl raking autumn leaves with toy rakes and wheelbarrow
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9. Outdoor Circuit Training
Create your own outdoor workout circuit using the natural elements around you. Parks, playgrounds, and even your own backyard can serve as settings for exercises like step-ups, push-ups, jumping jacks, and lunges.

  • Health Benefits: Circuit training is a full-body workout that improves cardiovascular health, burns calories, and builds muscle strength. The variety of exercises in a circuit helps target different muscle groups while keeping your heart rate elevated.
  • Tip: Use park benches, tree stumps, or playground equipment for exercises like tricep dips, incline push-ups, or step-ups. Bring along a resistance band or lightweight dumbbells to increase the challenge.

    Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Fall Fitness
    Fall offers a unique opportunity to refresh your fitness routine, thanks to the cooler temperatures, stunning scenery, and abundance of outdoor activities. Whether you’re taking a peaceful hike through the woods, enjoying a brisk run in the crisp air, or practicing yoga amidst the changing leaves, fall fitness can be both invigorating and calming. With the right layers, a few adjustments to your routine, and a focus on seasonal activities, you can stay active and energized throughout the season.
    Staying fit in the fall isn’t just about physical health; it’s also about boosting mental well-being by enjoying the beauty of nature and embracing the changes the season brings. Take advantage of this time to explore new activities, enjoy the outdoors, and set yourself up for a healthy, happy season ahead.

tealight candle lit up
Navigating the Journey of Grief and Recovery: Finding Light in the Darkness
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Some weeks, it feels like the world is caught in an endless cycle of chaos, with only a few bright moments scattered throughout. My heart goes out to the families affected by recent events, their friends, and everyone who has witnessed these tragedies in whatever way they resonate with you. In times like these, it’s crucial to find ways to take care of ourselves. Feel free to share how you practice self-care after encountering something difficult in the news or on social media.

Grief is a universal experience, yet it is deeply personal. It touches every corner of our lives, but no two people process it the same way. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, the end of a significant relationship, or even a shift in life’s expectations, grief comes in many forms. While it often feels overwhelming and endless, recovery is possible—though it rarely follows a straight line.

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1. Understanding Grief: A Personal Journey

Grief is not just an emotion; it’s a journey. It can affect our physical health, disrupt daily routines, and bring about feelings of isolation. One of the key elements of grief is acknowledging that it’s okay to feel pain, anger, confusion, or even numbness. There is no “right” way to grieve, and each experience of loss is unique.

The stages of grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—are often presented as a linear path, but in reality, they can loop, repeat, or overlap. You may feel okay one moment and completely lost the next. It’s important to allow yourself the time and space to feel whatever comes, without judgment or expectation.

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2. Recovering: What Does It Really Mean?

Recovery doesn’t mean forgetting or moving on. Instead, it’s about learning how to live with the loss and finding ways to continue forward, carrying your grief with you. Healing looks different for everyone. For some, it may involve seeking therapy, support groups, or journaling. Others might find solace in creative outlets like art, music, or exercise.

Self-compassion plays a huge role in recovery. Treat yourself as you would a friend who’s grieving. Give yourself permission to have hard days and recognize that recovery is not a quick fix—it’s a process that requires patience and grace.

Physical well-being plays a part in emotional recovery, too. Simple acts like getting enough sleep, eating nourishing foods, and engaging in light physical activity can provide a much-needed sense of routine and normalcy. Recovery from grief isn’t only emotional—it’s holistic, involving both the mind and body.

Building a support system is also essential to recovery. Surrounding yourself with people who understand or are willing to listen helps ease the loneliness that often accompanies grief. Whether it’s close friends, family members, or a professional counselor, having a safe space to express your feelings can provide immense relief. It’s also okay to lean on others when your strength falters—reaching out for help is a sign of resilience, not weakness.

Lastly, allow yourself to rediscover joy. Grief can make it feel like happiness is no longer possible, but joy can exist alongside pain. Slowly, as you move through the stages of healing, moments of laughter or peace will emerge. Embrace them without guilt. Joy doesn’t diminish the importance of your loss; it honors your capacity to heal.

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motivational quote
Quotes which inspire us

Do you have a quote you live your life by or think of often?

“Life is Like a box of chocolates- you never know what your gonna get”- Forrest Gump
hand over chococlates box
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Thinking about difficult times being like variety of chocolates can sometimes help me get through difficult moments – being a business owner I wear a lot of hats and experiences a lot of challenges out of my control. However, I know I can get through things, and I ask for help when necessary. I am thankful for those I have found along the way to help me keep going when I get that ill tasting nugget and look forward to the sweeter times.

Here are some other quotes I found when searching inspirational quotes that spoke to me!

“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky

“Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” – Theodore Roosevelt

“Do not wait to strike till the iron is hot, but make it hot by striking.” – William Butler Yeats

photo of assorted letter board quote hanged on wall
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These quotes highlight the importance of perseverance, passion, and taking action to achieve success and fulfillment. There are many quotes regarding success and failure that I personally do not agree with- and that’s ok! We are each unique individuals, and per our experiences our perception of situations we are faced with will be seen differently from anyone else. Might I be seen as negative if I don’t agree or see a statement as positive because of my experiences? Yes, because I cannot control how others think or perceive what they are shown. I prefer to be seen as realistic as unfortunately we don’t live in a perfect world, however I can understand why someone sees my view as negative and can accept that we have different views and opinions.

What are inspirational quotes that speak to you, have helped you reach your goals or keep going when times are rough? Comment below to help others build their own list.

black camera recorder
Popular movie characters and mental health disorders

From varying perspectives, I have found several articles that talk about popular movie characters to explain Abnormal Psychology and some different mental health disorders.

As a disclaimer – Please keep in mind as these are characters and none of these authors have been able to sit down with them , There is a lot of information gathering and diagnostic standards to meet for any official diagnoses and should be done by a professional to receive appropriate treatment for improved quality of life if people in your support system feel there are problems with anyone they or you may come in contact with.

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Christmas in July

The Grinch! Experiences three or more of the following:

  • “Failure to conform to social norms with respect to lawful behaviors”- repeatedly (stole all the Christmas trees and presents- did not think about consequences)
  • deceitfulness- repeated lying use of aliases or conning others for personal profit or pleasure (pretended to be Santa)
  • impulsive behavior, failure to plan ahead (when stealing Christmas failed to think about being caught / running into others)
  • irritability and aggressiveness as indicated by repeated fights or assaults (threw a Christmas tree when bullied)
  • at least 18 years old (grinch is 40s’)
  • Evidence of conduct disorder before age 15
  • Read here for a full article! https://fscj.pressbooks.pub/abnormalpsychology/chapter/antisocial-personality-disorder/
woman with white and red face paint
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Joker: psychopathy and narcissism

  • psychopaths are intelligent, glib, and articulate and they use these attributes to manipulate others into trusting and believing in them
  • view others as prey
  • inability to form emotional attachment or feel real empathy with others
  • carefully plan out every detail in advance and often have contingency plans in place
  • Read here for a full article! https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/wicked-deeds/201911/is-the-joker-psychopath
young woman posing in a costume of harley quinn
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Harley Quinn: histrionic personality

  • “Pervasive and excessive emotionally and display attention-seeking behavior” (Bornstein 1998).
  • may appear varying states of self- consciousness, warmth, gregariousness, excitement-seeking, positive emotions, fantasy, feelings, and trust.
  • A person with HPD would express those personality traits by always wanting attention, approval, and chooses not to live in reality.
  • “Act or look overly seductive, are easily influenced by others, dramatic, sensitive, believe relationships are more intimate than they actually are, and are constantly seeking reassurance and approval (Histrionic Personality Disorder 2016)
  • Read here for full paper! As seen through a Germanna community college students’ thoughts – Bayen Shehedh https://commons.vccs.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1019&context=student_writing
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And to end for now, of course I choose:

Patrick Bateman (Psycho) Asperger’s syndrome, obsessive-compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, narcissism, and antisocial personality disorder.

  • A sociopath is someone that lacks empathy, but typically will not break the law. They engage in manipulating behaviors that can make them seem charming one moment, but in the next are a completely different person.
  • Psychopathy, or a psychopath, on the other hand, is a diagnosis often confused with sociopathy. The two do overlap, but they differ in one aspect: consciousness. Sometimes, a sociopath may not even be aware they are being manipulative, whereas a psychopath knows exactly what they are doing
  • Secondly, psychopaths put the nature versus nurture debate to rest as the diagnosis can be a matter of genetics, environment, and/or both
  • schizotypal personality disorder, or SPD, is characterized by psychotic episodes of hallucinations.
  •  misinterprets events and responds with overreaction/ rejection of self
  • anxiety in the form of repetitive behaviors.
  • Read here for a full article! https://movieweb.com/american-psycho-patrick-bateman-psychology
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What are the differences between anxiety and depression?

“The relationship between these two conditions is complicated, and one may occur because of the other. People with anxiety may avoid potentially stressful situations and become isolated, which can then lead to depression.”

Anxiety can usually be defined as excess worries and or fear, whereas depression can be seen more numbness, withdrawn and despair. There is great overlap however on many levels which can be helpful when seeking treatment methods. Both can influence digestive upsets – appetite and weight changes, difficulty concentrating and difficulty sleeping.

Differences include:

Anxiety :

  • Fear of injury, illness or death,
  • racing thoughts
  • hypervigilance regarding potential threats
  • excessive worrying about things going wrong
Anxiety
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Depression

  • loss of interest in hobbies or pleasurable activities
  • thoughts of death or suicide
  • feeling sad, anxious, or empty
  • feeling hopeless or pessimistic
  • no energy or motivation to worry past immediate future
Depression
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There are many functions of the brain and disorders we are still learning about including differences in conditions like Bipolar- 10/15 years ago we knew it as something completely different then how it can present today. The world is ever changing, and we are ever evolving – which while can help with treatment, can make it difficult to diagnose and treat. People may experience anxiety and depression together due to the overlap and unknown. In fact, nearly 50% of people with depression also receive a diagnosis of an anxiety disorder. Changes in the function of certain neurotransmitters, including serotonin and other chemicals, such as dopamine and epinephrine can be big influencing factors – so in many cases a treatment which includes a combination of medication and therapy can make a big difference.

Check out this article for more information and in-depth look on the differences between Anxiety and Depression https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/anxiety-vs-depression#key-similarities-and-differences

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Intensives, Workshops, Support groups- What are the Differences?

While Coaching services are different from Therapy services, they may still be very beneficial to influencing one’s quality of life as a supplement to therapy. Two known barriers however to attending is insurance not covering or reimbursing, and financial cost can be a challenge. When searching for any support group, workshop or intensive it is good to know the differences in what they are to make sure the financial value is right for you.

Many providers or coaches will give a brief description of what they are in their websites – most usually a description of the topic of the event so you know the brief general idea of what you are signing up for and length of time, and cost. The main differences between a therapy intensive, a workshop, and a support group led by a professional in that field – lie in their structure, purpose, and methods of engagement:

One on one therapy
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Therapy Intensive

  • Depth and Duration: Therapy intensives are usually immersive and in-depth sessions that span several hours, days, or even weeks. They provide concentrated, focused therapeutic work.
  • Personalized Treatment: Often involves individualized attention and tailored therapeutic interventions to address specific issues or challenges.
  • Goals: Aimed at making significant progress or breakthroughs in a short amount of time. It may focus on trauma, relationship issues, or other deep-seated psychological concerns.
  • Methods: Utilizes various therapeutic techniques depending on the specific needs of the participants, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, or somatic experiencing.
    • Therapy intensives are designed to be deeply therapeutic without being traumatizing by incorporating several key principles and strategies:
      • Skilled Facilitation
        • Experienced professional, skilled in managing the intensity of sessions and can adjust the pace and approach based on real-time needs
        • trauma informed care- recognizes signs of distress and responds appropriately.
      • Safe and Supportive Environment
      • Structured Approach
        • Clear boundaries, preparation and integration
      • Pacing and Flexibility
        • Gradual exposure to topics and flexible interventions based on real-time feedback from participants
      • Focus on Resilience and Strength
        • Empowerment and Skill Building
      • Holistic Approach
        • Body mind connection
        • Supportive therapies like Art Therapy, movement, nature, music, drama, expressive elements to provide varied and less intense ways of processing emotions.
      • Aftercare and Support
        • Participants are often provided with follow-up support to help them integrate the insights and changes from the intensive into their daily lives, and or given resources including support groups, therapists’ information, and educational materials to continue their healing journey pending want and need of the participant.
Workshop discussion
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Workshop

  • Educational Focus: Workshops are typically designed to educate participants on specific topics, skills, or techniques.
    • They are more instructional and informational, can cover a range of stressing topics but not to the extent of needing 2 or more days to acknowledge and process like intensives.
  • Interactive and Practical: Often includes interactive elements like exercises, discussions, and practical applications to help participants learn and apply new concepts. Hands on learning and engagement encouraged
    • promote interaction and engagement, where intensives can be in a group setting but focused on self-improvement with minimal group engagement.
    • Pending the topic may be self-improvement focused on a lighter level then an intensive.
  • Short-term: Usually lasts for a few hours to a couple of days, making them shorter and less intensive than therapy intensives, less deep into participants personal issues.
  • Goals: Aimed at providing knowledge and tools that participants can use in their personal or professional lives, such as stress management, communication skills, or mindfulness practices.
  • Facilitation – Led by professionals who are knowledgeable in the workshop topic but not necessarily trained therapists.
Support Group Therapy
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Support Group Led by Professional Counselors

  • Peer Support: Focuses on providing a supportive environment where individuals can share experiences and offer mutual support.
  • Facilitation: Led by professional counselors who guide the discussions, ensure a safe and respectful environment, and provide therapeutic insights when necessary.
  • Ongoing Meetings: Typically meets regularly (weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly) over an extended period, offering continuous support. May be emotionally and or educationally focused to focus on learning skills and applying them in daily life pending the provider or other professional leading the meetings.
  • Goals: Aimed at reducing feelings of isolation, increasing understanding and coping strategies, and providing emotional support. Common for issues like addiction recovery, grief, chronic illness, or mental health challenges.

Summary

  • Therapy Intensive: In-depth, personalized, and concentrated therapeutic work for significant progress.
  • Workshop: Educational, interactive, and practical sessions focused on specific topics or skills.
  • Support Group: Ongoing peer support with professional facilitation, focusing on shared experiences and mutual support.

Each type of session serves different purposes and can be beneficial depending on the Facilitator and needs and goals of the participants. Hopefully this description can help you determine what might be right for you when searching for a group to meet your needs! Feel free to reach out if you would like help finding a group as Samantha has networked with many professionals throughout Wisconsin and has accessibility nationwide to other locations.

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Reducing the stigma around mental health

Stigma can create self-doubt and shame, and gear toward discrimination. With mental health, it’s not an easy problem to solve, for example- your arm is broken, lets fix it. Mental Health concerns can include symptoms such as:

  • Overthinking
  • Guilt
  • Low self esteem
  • Intense sadness
  • Anger, irritability, easily frustrated
  • Physical symptoms including itching, headaches, stomach-aches, tight muscles, loss of sleep
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Metaphorically speaking, stress can be equated to building a snowman – you can be on what appears to be flat yard rolling a ball of snow around to make it bigger and bigger but say you don’t notice a slope and next thing you know it’s too big and heavy to lift onto the snowman and now you have multiple snowmen to make up for not being able to bear the weight of the snow ball.

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How can we help reduce what we can’t see?

  • Try to be accepting of each other’s differences
  • View different loads of stress as a difference, not as a weakness.
  • Offer to help with tasks, be open minded that tasks you might be fine with may be too much for someone else
  • Offer to listen – not fix
  • Remember that you don’t know what that person’s day has looked like leading up to this moment and they may need some empathy
  • Education, look into what stress may look like in different environments – work, personal, and differences in positive vs. negative stress. Check out this page for some more details on stress

Reducing the stigma isn’t only one person’s task, it’s a little bit from everyone, a community effort. Smile at someone today, even the smallest behavior from you can be a big influence on someone else’s day.