ADHD may look different for different people however if you or someone you know experiences more than 6 of the following additional assessments are recommended.

• Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or with other activities.

• Often has trouble holding attention on tasks or play activities.

• Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.

• Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (e.g., loses focus, side-tracked).

• Often has trouble organizing tasks and activities.

• Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to do tasks that require mental effort over a long period of time (such as schoolwork or homework).

• Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities (e.g. school materials, pencils, books, tools, wallets, keys, paperwork, eyeglasses, mobile telephones).

• Is often easily distracted.

• Is often forgetful in daily activities.

• Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat.

• Often leaves seat in situations when remaining seated is expected.

• Often runs about or climbs in situations where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may be limited to feeling restless).

• Often unable to play or take part in leisure activities quietly.

• Is often “on the go” acting as if “driven by a motor.”

• Often talks excessively.

• Often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed.

• Often has trouble waiting their turn.

• Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games).

Anxiety is a natural response to stress or danger. However, when it becomes excessive and starts interfering with daily life, it may be time to seek assistance.

If you experience the following on a regular basis, and are unable to control them, it is possible are you dealing with anxiety:

• feeling nervous or on edge

• fear of the worst happening

• frequent headaches or stomach aches

• difficulty sleeping

• irritability

• difficulty concentrating

• constant negative thoughts or rumination on perceived mistakes

There are many ways to reduce anxiety. We will get to know you and work, in session, to determine what causes your anxiety and what approaches will work to decrease your distress in the moment.

For some people this may be through breath and body work, for others it may be a more cognitive approach. Once you are able to decrease the anxiety in the moment using EMDR or expressive arts therapy we will help you work through the events that caused the anxiety in order to reduce the triggers themselves.

1. How do you feel when you look in the mirror?

2. Do you often compare your appearance to others?

3. Are you critical of specific parts of your body?

4. How frequently do you find yourself thinking about your weight or body shape?

5. Do you avoid social situations because of how you feel about your body?

6. Have you ever felt embarrassed or ashamed of your body?

7. How do you think your body image affects your self-esteem or confidence?

8. Do you engage in any unhealthy behaviors (e.g., dieting, excessive exercise) to change your body?

9. How has your body image affected your relationships with friends and family?

If you are struggling with body image concerns, we can help. For many individuals, these issues run deeper than surface-level dissatisfaction. Body image often reflects underlying feelings of self-worth, societal pressures, and emotional struggles. By determining the root causes of your body image focus, you can begin to shift your perspective and reclaim your life.

Typically when someone says depression people think crying constantly, severe lack of motivation and inability to engage in daily tasks. While this may be correct for some people, this is not what depression looks like for everyone.

According to my.clevelandclinic.org people with atypical depression experience at least 2 of the following

• Increase in appetite and/or significant weight gain.

• Excessive sleepiness (hypersomnia).

• Heavy feeling in their arms or legs (also called leaden paralysis).

• Increased sensitivity to criticism or rejection, which results in significant social and occupational impairment. The emotional reactions may happen after imagined, anticipated or real rejection.

Other depressive symptoms that apply to atypical depression include:

• Feeling very sad or hopeless.

• Not enjoying things that used to bring you joy.

• Being easily irritated or frustrated.

• Having a difficult time concentrating or remembering things.

A therapist can assist in learning to identify triggers for depression and the situations that may increase these symptoms. When you understand "red flags" and risk factors changes can be made to improve your daily life.

Identity development is a lifelong process that evolves through various life stages. Each stage presents unique challenges that can influence how individuals view themselves and their place in the world.

Adolescence: This period marks a significant transition from childhood to adulthood, where individuals begin to explore their beliefs, values, and social roles. Teens often grapple with peer pressure, self-image, and the desire for independence. Navigating these challenges involves experimenting with different identities, which can be both exciting and overwhelming.

Young Adulthood: In this stage, individuals typically confront questions related to career paths, relationships, and personal values. The quest for authenticity becomes paramount, as young adults seek to establish their independence while also connecting deeply with others. Struggles with self-doubt, societal expectations, and the fear of failure can hinder this process.

Middle Adulthood: This stage often brings challenges related to work-life balance, parenting, and reevaluating life goals. Individuals may experience a “midlife crisis,” prompting them to reassess their accomplishments and identity. Finding meaning and fulfillment becomes essential, as they contemplate their legacy and contributions to society.

Later Adulthood: In this final stage, individuals reflect on their life experiences and the identities they've formed. Challenges may arise from transitioning into retirement, coping with physical changes, or dealing with the loss of loved ones. Successfully integrating past experiences into their sense of self can lead to a greater sense of peace and acceptance.

Throughout each life stage, support from family, friends, and professionals can play a critical role in fostering healthy identity development. Creating a nurturing environment that encourages self-exploration and open dialogue helps individuals navigate these challenges and empowers them to thrive.

Life transitions, whether positive or challenging, can trigger a complex mix of emotions. When we undergo significant changes—such as starting a new job, moving to a different city, or entering a new stage in relationships—we often find our sense of identity being questioned or reshaped. This process can evoke feelings of excitement and hope, but it can also bring about anxiety, confusion, or loss.

During these transitions, it’s common to experience a sense of instability. The familiar aspects of our identity that we’ve relied on may begin to feel distant or irrelevant. For example, someone who has recently become a parent might feel overwhelmed by new responsibilities while grappling with the aspects of their identity that are left behind. Similarly, a recent college graduate might face uncertainty about their future career and the role they play in their social circles.

Navigating these emotional complexities requires self-compassion and patience. Allowing ourselves to feel a range of emotions can be an important part of the process. It’s essential to give ourselves permission to grieve the loss of old identities while also celebrating the potential for growth and new beginnings.

Mother Wounds and Their Impact on Relationships and Parenting

Mother wounds refer to the emotional pain or trauma stemming from a mother-child relationship. These wounds can arise from various factors such as neglect, emotional unavailability, inconsistency, criticism, or unmet needs during childhood. The impact of mother wounds can be profound, influencing an individual's behavior in relationships and their approach to parenting.

In relationships, those carrying mother wounds may struggle with trust, intimacy, and self-worth. They might find themselves repeating patterns of codependency, struggling with abandonment issues, or fearing vulnerability. These emotional challenges can lead to difficulties in forming healthy attachments, often prompting one to either push others away or cling to them out of fear of loss.

As parents, individuals with mother wounds may face significant challenges in nurturing their children. They may project their unresolved feelings onto their parenting style, leading to either overprotectiveness or emotional detachment. Children raised in such environments might experience anxiety, low self-esteem, or difficulties in expressing their emotions, perpetuating a cycle of pain.

Recognizing and addressing mother wounds can be a crucial step toward healing. By exploring these issues, individuals can cultivate healthier relationships and foster a nurturing environment for their children. Embracing vulnerability and seeking support through counseling can empower individuals to break free from negative patterns and promote a positive cycle of emotional health and connection.

Characteristics of Perfectionism

1. High Standards: Perfectionists often set unrealistically high expectations for themselves and others, believing that anything less than perfection is unacceptable.

2. Fear of Failure: A pervasive fear of making mistakes can lead to avoidance of challenges or opportunities for growth, as the prospect of imperfection feels too daunting.

3. All-or-Nothing Thinking: Individuals may view situations in binary terms, believing they have either succeeded perfectly or failed completely, with no middle ground.

4. Overemphasis on Mistakes: Perfectionists tend to dwell on errors or shortcomings, often magnifying their importance and minimizing their achievements.

5. Difficulty Delegating Tasks: Trusting others to meet their high standards can be difficult for perfectionists, leading them to take on too much responsibility themselves.

6. Chronic Procrastination: The pressure to produce flawless work can result in indecision and procrastination, as the fear of not achieving perfection leads to avoidance.

7. Low Self-Esteem: Perfectionists may struggle with self-worth, relying on external validation and feeling inadequate despite their accomplishments.

8. Negative Self-Talk: A tendency to criticize oneself harshly can reinforce feelings of inadequacy, making it challenging to appreciate personal growth or success.

9. Control Issues: A desire for control over outcomes often stems from a fear of imperfection, leading to stress and anxiety when things don’t go as planned.

10. Impact on Relationships: Perfectionism can hinder relationships, as others may feel pressured to meet unreasonably high expectations, leading to conflict and dissatisfaction.

Understanding these characteristics can help individuals recognize patterns in their thinking and develop healthier, more balanced approaches to their goals.

For some people self-doubt causes difficulty in every area of life, for others it may only be an issue at work or at school. If you find yourself trying to fade into the background or experience decision paralysis we can help.

Learning to accept yourself while finding ways to grow and develop can improve self esteem and help you live the life you desire. If you related to any of the following you may benefit from counseling for low self-esteem.

• Do you often feel unworthy or not good enough?

• Do you struggle to accept or believe compliments or positive feedback from others?

• Do you frequently compare yourself to others and feel inferior?

• Do you struggle to assert yourself in conversations or situations?

• Do you find it difficult to accept mistakes or failures?

• Do you tend to focus more on your flaws rather than your strengths?

• Are you overly critical of yourself, even for minor issues?

• Do you avoid trying new things out of fear of failure or judgment?

• Do you have trouble setting healthy boundaries in relationships?

• Are you more likely to dwell on negative experiences than to celebrate positive ones?

Trauma refers to the emotional and psychological response to distressing events or experiences, which can range from accidents and natural disasters to abuse and loss. The impact of trauma can be profound, affecting both mental and physical well-being.

Mentally, trauma can lead to conditions such as PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), anxiety, and depression. Individuals may experience intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, or heightened emotional responses that can disrupt daily functioning. Trauma can also hinder one's ability to form healthy relationships, impair self-esteem, and create feelings of helplessness.

Physically, the effects of trauma can manifest in various ways, including chronic pain, fatigue, and digestive issues. The body's stress response may remain heightened, leading to long-term health problems such as heart disease or weakened immune function. Additionally, individuals may turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms, like substance use, further compromising both mental and physical health.

Therapy can be a transformative journey, offering valuable insights into how trauma influences your everyday experiences. Many individuals may not realize the extent to which unresolved trauma shapes their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In a safe and supportive therapeutic environment, you can begin to uncover these patterns and understand their origins.

Processing trauma is not about reliving painful experiences but rather about integrating them into your life narrative. This approach can help you reclaim aspects of yourself that may have felt lost or diminished due to traumatic events. As you work through these experiences with a trained therapist, you may find new perspectives and coping mechanisms that empower you to break free from the chains of the past.