The Grouport Journal

Explore all things mental health. Check out some of our latest journals below.

5 Signs a DBT Skills Group is Exactly What You Need

DBT

5 Signs a DBT Skills Group is Exactly What You Need

Do you feel like you can’t get ahead? Like life is just beating you down, or that challenges are overwhelming you to the point of chronic, debilitating anxiety, depression, PTSD, disordered eating, insomnia, or other mental health concerns? Do you feel like your emotions run your life, and you’re exhausted by the ups and downs? If these experiences are familiar to you, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or DBT, could be the solution you’re looking for. ‍If you’re unfamiliar with this type of tre

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How DBT Skills Help With Climate Anxiety

DBT

How DBT Skills Help With Climate Anxiety

As concerns rise for our climate and the future of our world, so does the anxiety that’s sweeping the planet. Increases in frequency of widespread wildfires and the length of wildfire season, along with rising temperatures and shifts in weather patterns leave many concerned and considering the long-term consequences for the Earth as well as the mental health of those who inhabit it. ‍The sobering ramifications of climate change are real, and present. It’s normal to react to these with emoti

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Understanding Anxiety Disorders and the Power of DBT

DBT

Understanding Anxiety Disorders and the Power of DBT

Anxiety disorders are one of the most prevalent mental health conditions worldwide, affecting millions. These disorders take various forms, each with distinct characteristics and symptoms. Fortunately, therapeutic approaches like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) provide effective treatment options. Additionally, according to the U.S. Dept of Health & Human Services, there are five significant types of anxiety conditions, which will cover here. This article will delve into five common types of anxiety disorders and discuss how DBT can aid in managing their symptoms.

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DBT Skills for Coping With Job Loss

DBT

DBT Skills for Coping With Job Loss

Careers fulfill a number of functions in our lives, including satisfying our need to achieve, bringing us income, creating a sense of belonging and stability, and helping us to feel empowered and accomplished. Therefore, when losing a job (which can often be so integrated with your identity), we can notice an immediate and significant decline in your mental health. According to a Gallup poll in 2013, unemployed Americans are more than 2x as likely to be treated for depression as those with full-

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DBT Skills for Developing Self-Compassion

DBT

DBT Skills for Developing Self-Compassion

Although not frequently discussed when referring to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills training, self-compassion is a beneficial and powerful side effect of this specialized type of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). ‍Part of the reason DBT can result in a greater sense of self-compassion is that throughout the DBT modules, students will learn to activate their “wise mind,” which is essentially a stronger and more powerful awareness of yourself, your emotions, your instincts, and yo

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How DBT Skills Help With Everyday Stressors

DBT

How DBT Skills Help With Everyday Stressors

No matter who you are, the reality is that you will eventually deal with stress of some kind. This is a simple fact of human existence. Jobs, children, relationships, health, driving, you name it - everyone will experience stress.‍Unmanaged stress can increase your risk of conditions like obesity, heart disease, Alzheimers’s, depression, GI problems, diabetes, and asthma, along with chronic physical symptoms like headaches, nausea, and insomnia. ‍When looking to manage stress, it’s importan

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How DBT Helps with Bipolar Disorder

DBT

How DBT Helps with Bipolar Disorder

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) techniques are being used in increasing measure in the treatment of various mood disorders and mental health conditions beyond their original intended use (for Borderline Personality Disorder), including for Bipolar Disorder. Bipolar Disorder is a highly recurrent and disabling condition marked by major depressive state and manic episodes. ‍The reason DBT shows evidence of success in treatment of Bipolar Disorder is likely because there is growing reason t

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DBT Skills to Know - Self-Soothing

DBT

DBT Skills to Know - Self-Soothing

The Distress Tolerance module of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) incorporates a number of types of Distress Tolerance skills designed to help distract us and get us through challenging emotions in situations where we feel a loss of control. Decreasing emotional distress as a symptom of situational challenges is one of the primary goals of DBT. There are a number of skills trainings that go into the Distress Tolerance module which can help with this, including: ‍ACCEPTSTIP IMPRO

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DBT Skills to Know - Non-Judgmental Stance

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DBT Skills to Know - Non-Judgmental Stance

Developing a non-judgmental way of thinking is a critical component of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills training, and falls under the Mindfulness module. Mindfulness helps teach participants to observe their own behavior, thoughts and feelings, and to stay grounded and present in the moment. Learning how to do this is the first step in developing new behaviors and making healthy changes. ‍The Mindfulness module of DBT focuses on our need to improve self-observation and awareness th

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DBT Skills to Know - Setting Goals

DBT

DBT Skills to Know - Setting Goals

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) was originally created for the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder by Marsha Linehan in the 1970’s. This structured variation on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy consists of what is often a year-long process of walking through the four main modules, and usually involves both group therapy, individual therapy, and even on-call phone consultations to mitigate crisis situations in the patient’s life as they may arise. ‍While the initial phase of DBT invo

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How to Use DBT Skills to Cope in Crisis

DBT

How to Use DBT Skills to Cope in Crisis

If you’ve ever felt your emotions are so completely overwhelming that you can’t restabilize yourself and may return to unhealthy or high risk behaviors, DBT can help.  Helping individuals to cope in crisis situations is one of the primary goals of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). The skills and tools taught throughout DBT can be used in a variety of circumstances and throughout many daily experiences to minimize stress and reduce emotional suffering. If you’re dealing with a high-st

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Utilizing Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Anxiety Regulation: Three Quick Skills

DBT

Utilizing Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Anxiety Regulation: Three Quick Skills

Anxiety can be an overwhelming and pervasive mental health challenge, affecting millions worldwide. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), emphasizing practical skills for managing distress and regulating emotions, can be useful for those looking to control their anxiety better. This article will highlight three quick DBT skills that can be used to regulate anxiety: "STOP," "TIPP," and "Wise Mind."

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Minimizing Symptoms of PTSD

DBT

Minimizing Symptoms of PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Symptoms can include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and intrusive thoughts about the event. While PTSD is a serious condition, there are effective ways to minimize its symptoms and regain control over one's life. This article will explore strategies for reducing symptoms of PTSD, including mindfulness, exposure therapy, and cognitive restructuring.

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DBT Skills to Know - Radical Acceptance

DBT

DBT Skills to Know - Radical Acceptance

The concept of Radical Acceptance is rooted in the idea that all suffering originated not in pain, but in our attachment to pain. In fact, Radical Acceptance has origins in Buddhism with the tenant that relief from suffering begins first and foremost with acceptance. ‍As a Dialectical Behavior Therapy skill, Radical Acceptance refers to the ability to accept our situation when the circumstances are out of our control, which can reduce the suffering we feel. Instead of being attached to our

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DBT Skills to Know - Emotional Regulation

DBT

DBT Skills to Know - Emotional Regulation

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) teaches critical skills relative to Emotional Regulation, which is arguably relevant for people of all backgrounds, behavior types, and with or without mental health conditions. We can all benefit from greater emotional regulation. ‍While emotions are important and feelings are relative in our relationships and day to day life and processing (they help us communicate and understand our experiences), they can also create a great deal of emotional suffering

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DBT Skills to Know - How to Think and Act Dialectically

DBT

DBT Skills to Know - How to Think and Act Dialectically

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is, at its core, founded upon principles of Dialectical thinking, which involves an integration of two foundational opposites: acceptance and change. ‍Learning to think and act in a dialectical manner can open up your thought process and increase your awareness of the different nuances in the world around you, rather than allowing you to exist in extreme black and whites. Extreme highs and lows are what drive many of the mental health conditions DBT is use

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DBT Skills to Know - What is a “Wise Mind”?

DBT

DBT Skills to Know - What is a “Wise Mind”?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), is a specific type of psychotherapy under the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy umbrella that was curated for Borderline Personality Disorder. However, this type of therapy has been proven to be successful in the treatment of a myriad of other mental health conditions, including but not limited to anyone struggling with: Overwhelming emotions.Impulsive behavior.Self injury.Suicidal thoughts.Substance abuse.Eating disorders.PTSD and other trauma disorders.&nbsp

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How DBT Skills Help Manage Eating Disorders

DBT

How DBT Skills Help Manage Eating Disorders

Over 28.8 million Americans will have an eating disorder in their lifetime. Eating disorders are generally classified as a type of mental illness characterized by harmful behaviors related to food. Those with eating disorders (such as bulimia, anorexia, binge eating, ad more) usually struggle with impulsivity, compulsive behaviors, negative body image, and even coexisting conditions like depression, anxiety, and more. ‍Eating disorders are the second most deadly mental illness (the first is

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How DBT Helps with Managing Anxiety Disorders

DBT

How DBT Helps with Managing Anxiety Disorders

These days over 18% of US adults are living with an anxiety disorder. For many people living with chronic anxiety, experiencing a daily, significant and ongoing sense of fear or anxiety can lead to restlessness, panic attacks, isolation, poor sleep, and physical symptoms such as headaches, nausea, body aches, stomach pain, and more. These and a host of other symptoms can be debilitating and may significantly decrease the sufferer’s quality of life. ‍Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is usu

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Dialectical Behavior Therapy: An Effective Approach for Depression

DBT

Dialectical Behavior Therapy: An Effective Approach for Depression

Depression is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent sadness, decreased interest in activities, and difficulty functioning daily. While there are many treatment modalities for depression, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is particularly effective in providing individuals with tools to manage their symptoms. This article will delve into the ways DBT can aid in coping with depression.

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Navigating Aging Anxiety: Understanding Its Causes, Symptoms, and Coping Strategies

Anxiety

Navigating Aging Anxiety: Understanding Its Causes, Symptoms, and Coping Strategies

Aging anxiety is a common concern affecting many individuals as they age. This type of anxiety is characterized by worry, fear, or stress related to aging and the changes it brings. In this article, we will delve into the causes and symptoms of aging anxiety, discuss practical coping strategies, and provide insights to help you embrace the natural aging process with confidence and grace.What is Aging Anxiety?Aging anxiety refers to the fear or apprehension individuals may experience as they age

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Understanding Trauma-Induced Anxiety: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Anxiety

Understanding Trauma-Induced Anxiety: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Trauma-induced anxiety is a common mental health condition experienced by many individuals who have endured a traumatic event. It can significantly impact a person's emotional well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life. This article delves into the causes and symptoms of trauma-induced anxiety, the various treatment options, and ways to manage and overcome this condition to lead a healthier, more fulfilling life.What is Trauma-Induced Anxiety? Trauma-induced anxiety occurs when

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Social Anxiety vs. Avoidant Personality Disorder: Understanding the Differences and the Benefits of Online Therapy Groups

Anxiety

Social Anxiety vs. Avoidant Personality Disorder: Understanding the Differences and the Benefits of Online Therapy Groups

A fear of social situations and negative evaluation characterizes social anxiety and avoidant personality disorder (AVPD). However, they are distinct mental health conditions that require different approaches to diagnosis and treatment. In this article, we will explore the differences between social anxiety and avoidant personality disorder and discuss how online therapy groups can be influential for individuals struggling with anxiety. By understanding the unique features of each condition and

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Rubbing Tongue Against Teeth for Anxiety: Understanding the Habit and How CBT Can Help Break the Cycle

Anxiety

Rubbing Tongue Against Teeth for Anxiety: Understanding the Habit and How CBT Can Help Break the Cycle

Anxiety can manifest in various physical habits and behaviors, such as rubbing the tongue against the teeth. While these habits can temporarily relieve anxiety, they may also contribute to ongoing distress and physical discomfort. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this habit and discuss how Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques can help individuals break free from these behaviors and develop healthier coping strategies for anxiety management.Why People Rub Their Tongues

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Rubbing Feet Together for Anxiety Relief: Understanding the Science and Exploring Other Soothing Techniques

Anxiety

Rubbing Feet Together for Anxiety Relief: Understanding the Science and Exploring Other Soothing Techniques

Anxiety affects millions worldwide, and finding effective ways to manage it is crucial for maintaining overall well-being. One seemingly simple yet surprisingly effective method for reducing anxiety is rubbing one's feet together. In this article, we will delve into the science behind why rubbing feet together can alleviate anxiety and explore other soothing techniques that can promote relaxation and stress relief. By understanding the mechanisms behind these coping strategies, you can better ut

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The Role of a Neurologist in Anxiety Management and the Benefits of Online Group Therapy

Anxiety

The Role of a Neurologist in Anxiety Management and the Benefits of Online Group Therapy

Anxiety is a natural stress response, and it can be a helpful tool in certain situations by allowing individuals to respond to potential threats. However, when anxiety becomes persistent and overwhelming, it can interfere with daily life and lead to various mental and physical health issues. This is when anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder, require specialized care and intervention.The role of a neurologist in anxiety managem

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Rocking Back and Forth: A Simple Technique to Soothe Anxiety

Anxiety

Rocking Back and Forth: A Simple Technique to Soothe Anxiety

Anxiety is a common mental health issue affecting millions of people worldwide. As the search for effective and accessible coping strategies continues, one simple yet powerful technique has emerged: rocking back and forth. This age-old practice, often associated with the soothing of infants, offers numerous benefits for adults experiencing anxiety. In this article, we delve into the science behind rocking as a form of anxiety relief and provide practical tips on incorporating this calming techni

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The Healing Power of Music: Reducing Anxiety Through Melody and Rhythm

Anxiety

The Healing Power of Music: Reducing Anxiety Through Melody and Rhythm

Music has long been recognized for its ability to evoke emotions, trigger memories, and provide a sense of connection. Beyond its cultural and artistic significance, music also possesses therapeutic properties that can profoundly impact mental health and well-being. In particular, numerous studies have demonstrated the potential of music to reduce anxiety, alleviate stress, and promote relaxation. This article will explore how music can help reduce anxiety and discuss practical strategies for in

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Overcoming OCD and Social Anxiety: Harnessing the Power of Online Group Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Anxiety

Overcoming OCD and Social Anxiety: Harnessing the Power of Online Group Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and social anxiety disorder are mental health conditions that can significantly impact an individual's daily life, often causing distress and functional impairment. Traditional therapy methods, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), have long been utilized in treating these conditions. However, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), developed initially for treating borderline personality disorder, has shown promising results in addressing OCD and social anxi

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The Power of Music: How Melodies Can Help Reduce Anxiety and Improve Mental Health

Anxiety

The Power of Music: How Melodies Can Help Reduce Anxiety and Improve Mental Health

Anxiety is a common issue that many people face, and finding effective ways to combat it can be challenging. One of the most potent and natural tools at our disposal is music. Research has consistently shown that music can profoundly impact our mental health, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. In this article, we will delve into the many benefits of music in reducing anxiety and improving mental well-being and discuss how to incorporate music therapy into your daily life.The Scien

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Calming the Mind: Using Meditation to Alleviate Health Anxiety

Anxiety

Calming the Mind: Using Meditation to Alleviate Health Anxiety

‍Health anxiety, sometimes called hypochondria or illness anxiety disorder, is characterized by excessive worry about one's health, often leading to obsessive thoughts, unnecessary medical appointments, and even avoidance of certain activities. While it's normal to occasionally be concerned about our health, health anxiety can significantly impact one's quality of life and overall well-being. One powerful tool for coping with health anxiety is meditation, a practice that has been shown to reduce

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Breathing Through Anxiety: A Guide to Manual Breathing Techniques for Stress Relief

Anxiety

Breathing Through Anxiety: A Guide to Manual Breathing Techniques for Stress Relief

Anxiety is an emotion that many people experience throughout their lives. It can manifest in various forms, such as generalized anxiety, social anxiety, or panic attacks. One common symptom of anxiety is irregular or shallow breathing, which can exacerbate feelings of stress and discomfort. Manual breathing techniques, which involve consciously controlling your breath, can help alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation. By learning and practicing these techniques, you can develop a valuable copin

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Harnessing the Calming Power of Incense: A Grounding Technique for Anxiety Relief

Anxiety

Harnessing the Calming Power of Incense: A Grounding Technique for Anxiety Relief

Anxiety is a pervasive emotion experienced by countless individuals worldwide. While feeling anxious in certain situations is natural, chronic anxiety can affect your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. As a result, finding effective grounding techniques to help manage and alleviate anxiety is essential. One such approach that has been utilized for centuries is incense. Aromatic and calming, incense can serve as a grounding technique to help center your thoughts, promote relaxation, and

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Breaking Free from the Vicious Cycle of Health Anxiety

Anxiety

Breaking Free from the Vicious Cycle of Health Anxiety

Health anxiety, also known as hypochondriasis or illness anxiety disorder, is a mental health condition in which a person excessively worries about a serious illness. These individuals often misinterpret normal bodily sensations or minor symptoms as indicators of severe health problems. This constant anxiety can significantly impact a person's daily life, causing distress and impairing their ability to function in social and occupational settings.To effectively manage health anxiety, it's import

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Navigating Family-Induced Anxiety: Strategies for Maintaining Your Mental Well-Being

Anxiety

Navigating Family-Induced Anxiety: Strategies for Maintaining Your Mental Well-Being

Family relationships can be both rewarding and challenging. While they provide support and love, these relationships can also be a source of anxiety for various reasons, including differences in opinion, unresolved issues, or toxic behaviors. Learning how to deal with family members that give you anxiety is essential for maintaining your mental well-being and nurturing healthier relationships. This article will explore practical strategies to manage anxiety stemming from family interactions.Effe

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Weighted Pillows and DBT Skills: A Powerful Duo for Overcoming Anxiety

Anxiety

Weighted Pillows and DBT Skills: A Powerful Duo for Overcoming Anxiety

Anxiety can be a challenging and overwhelming experience for many people. In search of relief, individuals often turn to various tools and techniques to help manage their symptoms. Two approaches are weighted pillows and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of using weighted pillows for anxiety and how learning DBT skills and techniques can provide additional support in overcoming anxiety.Understanding Weighted Pillows and Their Benefits for Anxi

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Harnessing DBT Skills to Overcome Anxiety

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Harnessing DBT Skills to Overcome Anxiety

If you're struggling with anxiety, you may feel overwhelmed by the countless strategies and therapies available. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) efficiently manages anxiety, combining cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices. In this article, we'll explore the core DBT skills and how they can be applied to reduce anxiety.What is DBT and How Can It Help with Anxiety?Dr. Marsha Linehan initially developed dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to treat borderline personality disor

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Hyperfixation Anxiety: Understanding and Managing Obsessive Focus

Anxiety

Hyperfixation Anxiety: Understanding and Managing Obsessive Focus

Hyperfixation anxiety is when an individual becomes obsessively focused on a specific thought, worry, or issue, often to the detriment of other aspects of their life. This type of anxiety can cause significant distress and impair daily functioning, as it becomes increasingly difficult for the person to disengage from the source of their fixation. In some cases, hyper fixation anxiety may be related to or exacerbated by an underlying anxiety disorder, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) o

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Untangling Your Anxiety: Techniques and Strategies for Greater Emotional Well-Being

Anxiety

Untangling Your Anxiety: Techniques and Strategies for Greater Emotional Well-Being

Anxiety is a common emotion that everyone experiences at some point in their lives. It can manifest in various forms, such as excessive worry, panic attacks, or phobias, and can significantly impact an individual's daily functioning and overall well-being. Untangling your anxiety involvesidentifying its root causes,learning practical techniques to manage it, andbuilding resilience to prevent it from taking control of your life.This article explores techniques and strategies to help you untangle

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Healing Trauma-Induced Anxiety Through Online Group Therapy and CBT Techniques

Anxiety

Healing Trauma-Induced Anxiety Through Online Group Therapy and CBT Techniques

Traumatic experiences can have a profound and lasting impact on an individual's emotional and psychological well-being. One common consequence of trauma is the development of anxiety, which can manifest in various forms, such as generalized anxiety, panic attacks, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The journey to healing and recovery from trauma-induced anxiety can be challenging but is achievable with the right support, resources, and therapeutic approaches.Online group therapy and cogni

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