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    What Is Journaling & How Can It Help You?

    July 12, 2024

    If you’ve been researching self-care practices, you may have come across something known as journaling. But what is journaling, exactly, and what can it do to improve your mental, emotional, and even physical health? Journaling, at its core, is the regular practice of writing down experiences, thoughts, and feelings. However, it can be adapted to […]

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    What Is Journaling & How Can It Help You?

    July 12, 2024

    If you’ve been researching self-care practices, you may have come across something known as journaling. But what is journaling, exactly, and what can it do to improve your mental, emotional, and even physical health?

    Journaling, at its core, is the regular practice of writing down experiences, thoughts, and feelings. However, it can be adapted to whatever your specific needs or goals may be. For example, many people find that listing the people and things that they’re thankful for helps them become happier overall. Another popular approach is bullet journaling, which typically involves listing short- and long-term goals, daily tasks, reminders, and observations.

    The Many Benefits of Journaling

    Journaling offers numerous benefits for your mind and body. For instance, it can help you:

    • Process and reflect on your emotions
    • Enhance your mindfulness
    • Become more grateful
    • Develop a more positive mindset
    • Boost your creativity
    • Reduce your stress and anxiety levels
    • Improve your memory
    • Sleep better
    • Track the progress you’re making toward your goals

    If you’re just getting started with journaling, you’ll want to intentionally set aside time for it each day until it becomes part of your normal routine. You may also want to try various methods—for example, using a paper journal versus a digital journal—to find the one that works best for you.

    Learn More About the Benefits of Journaling

    If you’re interested in journaling and the benefits it can provide for you, contact us today. We’ll be happy to arrange an initial consultation at a date and time that fits into your schedule. We look forward to meeting with you, telling you more about our practice, and providing you with tips for how to incorporate journaling into your daily life.

    Filed Under: journaling

    3 Tips for Starting a Self-Care Routine

    July 11, 2024

    You’ve probably heard of “self-care Sunday,” a recent trend that involves devoting one day a week to nourishing your mind and body. Whether you want to start practicing self-care on Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays—or every day—good for you! Depending on the practices you adopt, self-care can boost your mental and emotional health, enhance your physical health, […]

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    3 Tips for Starting a Self-Care Routine

    July 11, 2024

    You’ve probably heard of “self-care Sunday,” a recent trend that involves devoting one day a week to nourishing your mind and body. Whether you want to start practicing self-care on Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays—or every day—good for you! Depending on the practices you adopt, self-care can boost your mental and emotional health, enhance your physical health, strengthen your relationships, and improve your overall quality of life. Here are three tips to consider when starting a self-care routine:

    1. Think About Your Goals

    The thought of tackling all areas of your life at once can feel overwhelming, so decide what you’d like to focus on first. Once you’ve identified your goals, consider what activities will help you achieve them and where you can turn for support.

    2. Block Off Time

    You probably don’t hesitate to set aside time for school, work, and family obligations, but self-care is just as important. Block off a set amount of time—whether it be an hour or a full day—and commit to following through with your plans.

    3. Start Attending Therapy

    Many people think of self-care as something they do on their own, but speaking to a therapist is one of the best things you can do to improve your mental and emotional health. Luckily, you won’t need to look far to find a qualified therapist near you. Our caring team is highly experienced and can provide you with personalized recommendations that are tailored to your specific goals. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.

    Filed Under: self care

    3 Types of Boundaries

    July 3, 2024

    You may have heard about the benefits of setting boundaries with family, friends, and coworkers—by communicating your needs and wants, you can boost your self-esteem, prioritize your mental and emotional health, and improve your overall well-being. In the long run, boundaries can also enhance the relationships you have with those around you since they can […]

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    3 Types of Boundaries

    July 3, 2024

    You may have heard about the benefits of setting boundaries with family, friends, and coworkers—by communicating your needs and wants, you can boost your self-esteem, prioritize your mental and emotional health, and improve your overall well-being. In the long run, boundaries can also enhance the relationships you have with those around you since they can help you feel respected instead of resentful. But did you know that there are numerous types of boundaries? Here are three of the most common:

    1. Physical boundaries – You communicate how you want to be touched and how much personal space you need. For example, you can let a colleague know that you’d rather shake hands instead of hugging or kissing. This doesn’t just apply to your body, either—you can also let your in-laws know that you don’t feel comfortable having them enter your bedroom while they’re babysitting.
    2. Material boundaries – You communicate when you’re willing to lend out money and possessions and how you want them to be treated. For instance, you can let a friend know that you can’t afford to lend them more than $100. Or, you can tell your son that he can only borrow your car if he returns it with a full tank of gas.
    3. Time boundaries – You communicate how you want to use your time. For example, you can tell your boss that you can’t stay past the end of your scheduled workday. Or, you can ask your spouse to refrain from calling and texting while you’re having dinner with friends except in case of an emergency.

    Start Setting Boundaries in Your Life

    If you need help implementing any of the boundaries described above, contact us today and ask to schedule a consultation with one of the skilled therapists on our team. We understand the many benefits that healthy boundaries can offer, and we’ll work with you to identify the steps you’ll need to take to set them in your life.

    Filed Under: boundaries

    5 Summer Activities That Can Boost Your Mental Health

    July 2, 2024

    The sun’s out, the temperature is rising, and… you’re feeling depressed. While people typically experience the effects of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in the fall and winter months, this condition can also cause some individuals to feel depressed in the spring and summer. Whether you have SAD or you’re feeling depressed for another reason, here […]

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    5 Summer Activities That Can Boost Your Mental Health

    July 2, 2024

    The sun’s out, the temperature is rising, and… you’re feeling depressed. While people typically experience the effects of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in the fall and winter months, this condition can also cause some individuals to feel depressed in the spring and summer. Whether you have SAD or you’re feeling depressed for another reason, here are five activities you should consider to boost your mental health this summer:

    1. Head outside to try a new outdoor exercise like walking, swimming, or playing tennis (even if you don’t feel up to exercising, relaxing outside while reading a book or picnicking with friends could improve your mood).
    2. Create a summer playlist filled with upbeat, catchy tunes.
    3. Spruce up your home by planting some flowers (if you don’t have any outdoor space, try looking for a local community garden).
    4. Attend a local fair, watch an outdoor movie, or spend the day at a nearby amusement park.
    5. Pick up some fruits and vegetables from a local farmer’s market (and maybe even use them to try a new recipe).

    Does Your Mental Health Still Need a Boost?

    If you’ve tried the summer activities listed above but found that your mental health could still use some improvement, contact us today. We’ll be happy to schedule an appointment with one of the experienced therapists at our practice. Once we’ve learned about the issues you’ve been experiencing, we’ll be able to recommend some strategies that are customized to your unique needs.

    Filed Under: mental health, summer

    10 Relaxation Tips for Busy Professionals

    June 26, 2024

    Does your career often leave you feeling stressed? If so, you’re not alone. According to statistics published by the American Institute of Stress, 40% of workers reported that their job was very or extremely stressful, and 25% viewed their job as the No. 1 stressor in their life. And because stress can make it difficult […]

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    10 Relaxation Tips for Busy Professionals

    June 26, 2024

    Does your career often leave you feeling stressed? If so, you’re not alone. According to statistics published by the American Institute of Stress, 40% of workers reported that their job was very or extremely stressful, and 25% viewed their job as the No. 1 stressor in their life. And because stress can make it difficult for you to focus, it can affect job performance, potentially leading to even more stress.

    Fortunately, there are steps you can take to manage your stress, relax, and enjoy a better quality of life:

    1. Eat a nutritious diet.
    2. Drink plenty of water.
    3. Get enough sleep.
    4. Exercise (you may even be able to do a few calming yoga poses in your office).
    5. Meditate.
    6. Use positive affirmations.
    7. Practice deep breathing.
    8. Spend time on self-care (this could involve going out to dinner with friends, visiting the spa, or even just taking a short walk outside).
    9. Take periodic breaks during the workday.
    10. Find a healthy work-life balance.

    Talk to a Therapist

    If you’re still feeling stressed, you may want to consider attending therapy. An experienced therapist can help you identify stress triggers and provide you with tips and tools for how to relax when you start feeling overwhelmed.

    Fortunately, busy professionals in this area can turn to our therapists for help with relaxation. We understand the toll that a strenuous career can take on your mental health, and once we’ve learned about your lifestyle and treatment goals, we’ll be able to supply you with advice that’s tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today to schedule your first therapy session.

    Filed Under: relaxation tips, stress

    Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Causes & Symptoms

    May 30, 2024

    Do you tend to start feeling unhappy around the same time each year? If so, you might have seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that the American Psychiatric Association estimates affects about 5% of U.S. adults. Below, we explore what causes SAD and describe the symptoms that it often produces. What Causes SAD? […]

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    Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Causes & Symptoms

    May 30, 2024

    Do you tend to start feeling unhappy around the same time each year? If so, you might have seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that the American Psychiatric Association estimates affects about 5% of U.S. adults. Below, we explore what causes SAD and describe the symptoms that it often produces.

    What Causes SAD?

    Researchers are still working to determine exactly what causes seasonal affective disorder. However, studies suggest that SAD may be connected to circadian rhythms, melatonin levels, and serotonin levels, all of which can be affected by the changing seasons.

    What Are the Symptoms of SAD?

    As its name suggests, seasonal affective disorder is related to the change in seasons, beginning and ending around the same time each year. Most people with this condition tend to feel depressed in fall and winter, but some grow depressed in spring and summer. When SAD occurs, it can make someone:

    • Feel agitated, anxious, guilty, hopeless, irritable, listless, sad, sluggish, tired, or worthless
    • Lose interest in their favorite activities
    • Find it difficult to focus
    • Sleep more or less than usual
    • Lose their appetite or overeat (particularly carbohydrates), leading to weight loss or gain

    In some especially severe cases, individuals with SAD may experience suicidal thoughts.

    Do You Have SAD?

    If you’re experiencing the seasonal affective disorder symptoms listed above, you could benefit from speaking to a therapist with experience treating this condition. Our team has worked with numerous patients living with SAD, and we’ll be glad to meet with you and discuss the issues you’ve been experiencing. And if we determine that you do have SAD, we’ll recommend a customized course of treatment. Contact us today to schedule your first therapy session.

    Filed Under: seasonal affective disorder

    Is Happiness Really a Choice?

    May 16, 2024

    You might have heard that happiness is a choice and wondered if that’s actually true. Unfortunately, for some individuals, mental health conditions like depression and bipolar disorder make it difficult for them to feel happy. There can also be several factors outside someone’s control—such as their age, physical health, or geographic location—that could make it […]

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    Is Happiness Really a Choice?

    May 16, 2024

    You might have heard that happiness is a choice and wondered if that’s actually true. Unfortunately, for some individuals, mental health conditions like depression and bipolar disorder make it difficult for them to feel happy. There can also be several factors outside someone’s control—such as their age, physical health, or geographic location—that could make it harder for them to achieve happiness. With that said, many people can take affirmative steps to cultivate happiness over time.

    How to Find Happiness in Your Life

    If you’re looking for ways to feel happier in your day-to-day life, you may want to:

    • Focus on positives rather than on negatives.
    • Think about all the people and things that you’re grateful for.
    • Smile more often (studies have shown that the physical act of smiling can release hormones that increase happiness and reduce stress).
    • Implement a morning routine that incorporates stretching, meditating, journaling, and eating a healthy breakfast.
    • Increase your activity level (be sure to consult with your doctor before beginning a new exercise regimen).
    • Sleep more (most adults need at least seven hours of sleep each night).
    • Connect with friends and family members, either in person or over the phone.
    • Spend more time in nature.
    • Volunteer at an organization that’s meaningful to you.

    Start Living a Happier Life

    If you struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, or another mental health condition or you simply want to be a happier person, one of the best things you can do is reach out to an experienced therapist. Luckily, you can get the help you need from the caring team at our practice. We understand how difficult it can sometimes be to achieve happiness, but we’ll supply you with personalized tips and tools that can help you start experiencing a better quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a therapy session at a date and time that fits into your schedule.

    Filed Under: happiness

    How to Tell Someone Your Boundaries

    May 1, 2024

    So, you’ve decided that it’s time to set some boundaries in your life. Good for you! Boundaries are essential to maintaining relationships with friends, family members, and coworkers, as they can help build trust and respect. Once you’ve decided what your boundaries are, the next step will be communicating them to those around you. Here […]

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    How to Tell Someone Your Boundaries

    May 1, 2024

    So, you’ve decided that it’s time to set some boundaries in your life. Good for you! Boundaries are essential to maintaining relationships with friends, family members, and coworkers, as they can help build trust and respect. Once you’ve decided what your boundaries are, the next step will be communicating them to those around you. Here are some tips for how to do so:

    • Be clear. Explain exactly what you expect so that there’s no room for misinterpretation. For example, if you don’t want to work evenings, say, “I’m available between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.” rather than “I can’t work late,” since “late” can mean different things to different people.
    • Establish consequences. Explain what will happen if your boundary is crossed. For instance, if your child regularly yells, say, “If you raise your voice while we’re having a conversation, I will leave the room until you calm down.” And most importantly, follow through on those consequences.
    • Use the sandwich method. If you’re concerned about how the other person will react, try sandwiching your boundary between two positive statements. For example, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by how frequently your sister calls, you could say, “I love our chats, but I’ve been so busy with this new job that I’m not able to talk each night. Can we schedule a time each week to catch up?”

    Do You Struggle to Set Boundaries?

    Setting and communicating boundaries can be difficult, but it’s a lot easier with the help of an experienced therapist. Fortunately, you can get the assistance you need from the caring team at our practice. We understand the intricacies of relationships between family members, friends, coworkers, and other acquaintances, and we’ll provide you with tailored advice on how to effectively set any necessary boundaries. Contact us today to schedule a therapy session at a date and time that’s convenient for you.

    Filed Under: communication, relationships

    How Spring Cleaning Can Improve Your Mental Health

    April 17, 2024

    As spring approaches, you might have the urge to thoroughly clean your home. Known as “spring cleaning,” this ritual commonly involves getting rid of items you no longer need and paying attention to areas that you often miss during regular cleaning sessions (for example, your baseboards, grout, and window treatments). Spring cleaning offers numerous physical […]

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    How Spring Cleaning Can Improve Your Mental Health

    April 17, 2024

    As spring approaches, you might have the urge to thoroughly clean your home. Known as “spring cleaning,” this ritual commonly involves getting rid of items you no longer need and paying attention to areas that you often miss during regular cleaning sessions (for example, your baseboards, grout, and window treatments).

    Spring cleaning offers numerous physical benefits—in addition to providing a workout, it can help rid your home of dust, mildew, pet dander, pollen, and pollutants. But did you know that spring cleaning can also improve your mental health? Here’s how:

    • It helps you focus. When the environment around you is chaotic, it can make it difficult for you to focus on tasks (which can be especially frustrating if you work from home). By removing clutter and organizing your belongings, you’ll be making it easier for yourself to concentrate.
    • It reduces stress. If you’ve had certain tasks on your to-do list for quite a while, constantly seeing reminders of them not being done can raise your stress levels. Once you check those items off your list, it will make it easier for you to relax at home.
    • It helps you sleep. If your spring cleaning routine includes washing your bedding, vacuuming your mattress, and organizing your dressers and nightstands, it can make it easier for you to get a good night’s rest, which can in turn boost your mood and help you focus and remember things.

    Speak to a Therapist

    While spring cleaning can often be a great first step to take toward improving your mental health, sometimes you need some extra help. An experienced therapist—like the ones at our practice—can help you address any areas in which you’re struggling and achieve a better quality of life overall. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of the caring providers on our team.

    Filed Under: cleaning, mental health

    How to Support a Loved One Through a Panic Attack

    April 2, 2024

    Do you have a friend or family member who regularly experiences panic attacks? If so, you may be looking for ways to recognize when these attacks are taking place and offer your support. We’ve got the answers you need below. How to Recognize a Panic Attack Even if you’ve experienced panic attacks yourself, it can […]

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    How to Support a Loved One Through a Panic Attack

    April 2, 2024

    Do you have a friend or family member who regularly experiences panic attacks? If so, you may be looking for ways to recognize when these attacks are taking place and offer your support. We’ve got the answers you need below.

    How to Recognize a Panic Attack

    Even if you’ve experienced panic attacks yourself, it can be difficult to tell when someone around you is having one. Your loved one may be experiencing a panic attack if:

    • They’re flushed, sweating, or otherwise appear to be hot (for example, they might have taken off an outer layer of clothing).
    • They’re shivering or shaking.
    • They’re hyperventilating or having trouble breathing.
    • They suddenly went quiet.

    How to Help Someone During a Panic Attack

    If you think that a friend or family member might be having a panic attack, it’s important to stay calm and treat them gently. You may want to:

    • Reassure them that they’re safe, the panic attack will be over soon, and you’ll stay with them in the meantime.
    • Guide them through breathing exercises.
    • Take them outside or open a window so they can get some fresh air.
    • Take them to a more private place.
    • Bring them a glass of water.

    If your loved one frequently has panic attacks, you may want to ask them when they’re feeling calmer about how they’d like to be supported in the future.

    Get Help With Your Loved One’s Panic Attacks

    If you have a friend or family member who regularly experiences panic attacks, we encourage you to meet with one of the knowledgeable therapists at our practice. We have extensive experience treating panic attacks, and we can supply you with tools and tips for how to support your loved one. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

    Filed Under: panic attacks

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