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Pawsitive Vibes: The Importance of Emotional Service Animals
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) provide therapeutic benefits to individuals struggling with mental health issues, including reducing loneliness, anxiety, and depression symptoms. While not recognized as service animals, ESAs hold unique benefits and protections under the Fair Housing Act. It’s important to note that airlines have different policies regarding ESAs, and ESA ownership requires ample resources… Read more
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You Don’t Know How to Breathe
The post discusses the importance of correct breathing techniques for maintaining emotional stability, arguing that deep, diaphragmatic breathing can induce calm and reduce anxiety. The text suggests that culturally ingrained posture and shallow chest-breathing can trigger a ‘fight or flight’ response, leading to feel nervous. It recommends daily belly-breathing exercises for better control over emotions.… Read more
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The One Where We Lost A Friend
Matthew Perry, famous for his role in Friends and his advocacy work in addiction, recently passed away. Addiction impacts a huge number of lives in the U.S., with various risk factors contributing to substance abuse disorder. Research argues addiction is a misguided effort of the mind to protect from harm. Compassion and support, in conjunction… Read more
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A Year in Review
In the year since Building Hope Counseling Services opened, the practice has served over 50 diverse clients with a high retention and attendance rate. The counselor underwent trauma therapy (EMDR) training, mentored at Suffolk University, and learned valuable business and professional boundaries while growing her practice. The company also initiated a blog and aims to… Read more
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To Be A Therapist in a Dystopian Hellscape
Being a therapist in a turbulent 2023, amid societal division and global crises, is likened to trying to extinguish an uncontrolled fire, applying inadequate bandages, and confronting a sense of personal insufficiency. Yet, it also offers feelings of humanity, pride, honor, profound doubts, and constant hope. Ultimately, providing connection proves to be the therapist’s most… Read more
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Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Domestic violence, a major issue in the USA, affects millions annually and goes beyond physical abuse, encompassing verbal, psychological, and financial tactics. With over 61 million women and 53 million men experiencing psychological aggression in their lives, women are currently most at risk from intimate partner violence. The LGBTQ+ community also experiences comparable, if not… Read more
Building Hope Counseling Services 