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Off the Couch

Thoughts about the therapeutic process, and the dynamics of client-therapist interactions.

Mindfulness
Mindfulness Not for You? Before You Give Up, Try This

F. Diane Barth L.C.S.W. on September 11, 2022

Mindfulness has been turned into an emotional and psychological workout, which turns many people off. But is there a way to make it a kinder, gentler, and more useful tool?

Mindfulness has been turned into an emotional and psychological workout, which turns many people off. But is there a way to make it a kinder, gentler, and more useful tool?

Anxiety
Why Second-Guessing Yourself Might Not Be All Bad

F. Diane Barth L.C.S.W. on March 12, 2022

If you often second-guess your decisions, you may feel like you have a serious problem. But a different perspective can help you put those doubts to good use.

If you often second-guess your decisions, you may feel like you have a serious problem. But a different perspective can help you put those doubts to good use.

Motivation
What to Do When You Just Can't Get Started

F. Diane Barth L.C.S.W. on February 21, 2022

Are you having trouble getting started on something you want to do? The stories you're telling yourself might hold the keys to your motivation.

Are you having trouble getting started on something you want to do? The stories you're telling yourself might hold the keys to your motivation.

Self-Esteem
Why Taking Honest Responsibility Can Make You Happy

F. Diane Barth L.C.S.W. on January 30, 2022

Taking responsibility for our actions is often difficult, but when we learn to do it honestly, we frequently feel better about ourselves, our loved ones, and our colleagues.

Taking responsibility for our actions is often difficult, but when we learn to do it honestly, we frequently feel better about ourselves, our loved ones, and our colleagues.

Embarrassment
What Is the Difference Between Guilt and Shame?

F. Diane Barth L.C.S.W. on January 13, 2022

Guilt and shame are often confused, but there are important differences in the two emotions. What's also important is that guilt can help you overcome shame.

Guilt and shame are often confused, but there are important differences in the two emotions. What's also important is that guilt can help you overcome shame.

Guilt
Is Someone Trying to Make You Feel Guilty?

F. Diane Barth L.C.S.W. on December 20, 2021

It's hard not to feel guilty, or angry, or both when someone guilt-trips you. A small shift in attitude can make a big difference.

It's hard not to feel guilty, or angry, or both when someone guilt-trips you. A small shift in attitude can make a big difference.

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May 2023
Find Your Path Forward

Hope is double-edged, false hope can set you on a collision course with despair. Know when your hopes are well-founded and how to turn your deep desires into results.

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