By Kara Ferreira Animal assisted therapy (AAT) is a growing field of mental health treatment that has shown to be effective in aiding recovery from trauma, anxiety, and depression. AAT provides an opportunity for patients to interact with therapy animals in a safe and controlled environment,...
By Barbara K. Stump, MA February is here- and that means Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. How do you feel about this Hallmark Holiday? Do you embrace it or do you wish it was over yesterday? Regardless of whether you have a special Valentine...
By Kara Ferreira Mindfulness is an important tool for maintaining mental health. It helps us to be more aware of our thoughts, feelings and behaviors, so that we can better manage them in a healthy way. Mindfulness also enables us to stay present in the moment...
by Kara Ferreira At Galvin Growth Group we often talk about gratitude and how it can be used to improve your outlook and mental health. Did you know that it can also improve your relationships? Marriage experts Dr. John Gottman and Dr. Julie Schwartz Gottman study partner...
by Kara Ferreira Childhood emotional neglect is the failure of parents or caregivers to meet a child’s emotional needs, particularly during the early years of development. It varies in severity and may occur intentionally or unintentionally. Examples of childhood emotional neglect (from PsychCentral) may include: Lack of...
By Barbara K. Stump, MA When was the last time you visited a museum? Have you had experiences with looking at art in museums which has allowed you a time for reflection? Has it felt relatable or maybe even healing? Have you found art which you...
By Kara Ferreira A recent Psychology Today article considered the use of cell phones and how they can get in the way of social connection. Cell phone use is not always detrimental to relationships, but it can be if it is perceived as dismissive and when it...
by Kara Ferreira and Sarah Rea This time of year can become a little chaotic, with holiday plans and end-of-year tasks colliding all at once. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can further complicate a busy schedule. Some of the symptoms of ADHD in adults include: Lack of...
By Kara Ferreira and Troy Marks II, MA Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and milder cases of the winter blues occur when the days become shorter and the weather becomes colder. Symptoms of SAD, according to the Mayo Clinic, include: Feeling listless, sad or down most of...
By Barbara K. Stump, MAIt seems like winter has come early this year. Have you ever been snowed in? I experienced this phenomenon last weekend. My new home is in Traverse City, so I guess this is going to take some adjustment. It is...
