Lisa Marie Bobby, PhD, LP, LMFT’s Post

One of the great challenges therapists face is the emotional wear and tear of our work. Maybe I need a break, because it's getting to me. Too many times in the last three weeks I sat across from parents who were literally in tears as they spoke about their children's struggles. Too many time I was on the phone with parents desperately seeking a way to help their kids. Too many times I sat across from clients and fought off the feeling of overwhelm that they live with daily as we discussed their lives. Don't get me wrong. I love what I do. I've said it many times and I'll continue saying it. I can think of no more fulfilling life mission than the one I've chosen for myself. (That doesn't mean there isn't one; I simply can't think of it. 😉) But being a therapist is hard. Not, it can be hard. Not, sometimes it's hard. It's hard. And it's rewarding, it's fulfilling, it's beautiful and it's amazing. But it's hard. What's the takeaway? That everyone has stuff going on. What's hard for me is the stuff being brought into my office. It's the hurt and pain and challenges of those seeking my help. Be kind to everyone, friends and strangers alike. Be compassionate. Often those struggling the most are those you'd last think are having a hard time. And if you meet a therapist, just give him or her a nod and a smile. You have no idea what he or she is carrying. But it's a lot, and by doing so, they're lightening the load of all of their clients. #eliavmsw #therapy #mentalhealth #perspective

90% of Therapists are burnt out. Here is our selection of the best books for therapists who are working to understand, overcome and heal from the impacts of burnout and restore resilience and joy back into their lives. #burnout #burnoutprevention #therapists https://lnkd.in/gSR2QrUK

Meet our Program Director, Roxie Ann. Many people see therapy as a one-sided conversation, with little opportunity for interaction or having the ability to be authentic. I can promise you that I am as real as it gets. I want to help you achieve whatever solutions and life changes work best for you while enjoying the process as much as possible. I don’t believe therapy has to always be a difficult thing. Calling a therapist can be a little scary, but I hope you will take a moment (and maybe a deep breath) to call and see how I can help you through any symptoms of psychosis that you may be experiencing. Life is too short to allow yourself to be placed in a box and shut off from the world simply because others don’t understand what you are experiencing. You matter, and you can succeed in this great, big world with the right tools and the right people by your side. I can’t promise that your life will always be sunshine and rainbows, or guarantee that life will be free of chaos, but I can assure you that I will be committed to helping you rediscover joy, balance, and all that this life has to offer. During 9 years as a therapist, I have helped individuals, couples, and families find healing and understanding in desperate situations. In addition to working with clients, I train other therapists through professional supervision. #mentalhealthmatters #ihope

In a busy life it can be challenging to find time to journal, especially if you don't know where to begin. Following on from hosting a therapeutic journalling workshop last week, I've put together this article for Counselling Directory. It provides some quick and easy starters to help you make regular journal writing a valuable habit. For mental health maintenance, mindfulness and personal development. #journalling #psychotherapy #microhabits https://lnkd.in/dbkS9Cyz

Even as a therapist, self-care did not come easy to me. So here's my account of what that journey has been like over the last few years. If it resonates with you, do let me know in the comments below! #selfcare #mentalhealthmatters #selfcarejourney

The concept of self-care can feel overwhelming sometimes, especially when life is in a busier season. We wanted to dive into the topic of self-care this week to hopefully break down the concept into a simpler view.

Want self-help book recommendations? Here are 6 books that mental health professionals recommend to invite reflection and offer practical tools to promote emotional, psychological or spiritual well-being. 1. "The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World", by the Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu with Douglas Abrams. How do we experience joy during personal and collective suffering? Dr. Dimidjian recommends the book to “anyone who is feeling overwhelmed by the realities of our world and daily life today”. 2. "The Happiness Trap: How to Stop Struggling and Start Living", by Russ Harris. Published in 2007, this book teaches readers to deal with negative thoughts and feelings, instead of resisting or getting consumed by them. 3. "Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion", by Gregory Boyle. This book is a collection of real, powerful stories about former gang members and how their experiences can inform the way readers deal with and overcome trauma. 4. "The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity", by Julia Cameron. “Because everyone is creative, and creativity is medicine.” This workbook guides readers to recover their childlike creativity to rehabilitate 5. "Homecoming: Healing Trauma to Reclaim Your Authentic Self", by Thema Bryant. This book explores a “distinctive lens on health, hope and healing trauma”, sharing stories, reflections, and exercises to help people believe in their capacity to heal. 6. "The Power of Character Strengths: Appreciate and Ignite Your Positive Personality", by Ryan M. Niemiec and Robert E. McGrath. This book explores the idea of cultivating your “character strengths” and positive psychology, which centers on promoting well-being. Read more about these books in the article: “6 Self-Help Books That Therapists Read Themselves” by Carolyn Todd. https://lnkd.in/erpn8hfm

Finding the right therapist can feel like a daunting task. Where do you even start? Regardless of what you are seeking help for, here are some suggestions for things to consider when seeking help. https://lnkd.in/gZhFm5zJ

It's easy to get caught up in the daily hustle with long to-do lists and packed schedules. It can feel like there are never enough hours in the day. And as therapists, with our attention so intensely turned towards helping others, caring for ourselves quickly falls to the wayside. We know that we need it, and might secretly hope that a client cancels a session so we can get to it (Oh, the guilt for even thinking it!) so when there is a cancellation, we can't experience the good feelings that self-care is meant for, if we even do it at all. You challenge this week: Make time for yourself. Like, comment, or repost if you accept! #MondayMotivation #TherapistSelfCare #MentalHealth #therapist #TherapistLife #WellnessMatters

🌿 Seeking therapy can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack – amidst life's chaos, finding the right fit can seem daunting. From packed waitlists to financial constraints, the journey to therapy is fraught with challenges. But amidst it all, prioritizing your mental health is paramount. 🧠💚 Here's a guide to help you navigate the path to finding a therapist. Read a detailed guide on our blog (link in bio): 1️⃣ **Define Your Needs:** Clarify what you're seeking from therapy – whether it's managing depression, navigating life changes, or simply seeking support. 2️⃣ **Assess Your Payment Options:** Understand your insurance coverage and budget constraints. Explore in-network options or consider self-pay and sliding scale options. 3️⃣ **Start Searching:** Utilize online directories and seek recommendations. Consider factors like therapy type, specialization, and therapist background. 4️⃣ **Evaluate Fit:** Research potential therapists and assess compatibility with your preferences and cultural background. 5️⃣ **Reach Out and Ask Questions:** Initiate contact with prospective practices and therapists. Have your needs ready and ask questions to determine if it's a good fit. 6️⃣ **Interview Prospective Therapists:** Schedule consultations to ask about experience, expertise, and approach. Pay attention to communication style and alignment with your needs. 7️⃣ **Give It Time:** Commit to attending several sessions to evaluate the fit. Trust your instincts and prioritize your comfort and safety. Remember, therapy is a journey, not a destination. It takes time and effort, but the rewards of finding a supportive therapist can be transformative. At Phoenix Counseling Collective, we're here to support you on your journey. If you need help finding a therapist, reach out to us – we're here to help. 💙✨ #TherapyJourney #MentalHealthMatters #SelfCare #PhoenixCounselingCollective