When faced with uncertainty, most of us try to make sense of things. We search for explanations, weigh up what feels right, and eventually settle on an answer. This everyday process is what psychologists call lay epistemology — a theory by Arie Kruglanski that explores how people form and maintain their beliefs. What does it… Continue reading
Emotions are often described as reactions to events, thoughts, or situations. But what if emotions are not just the result of one cause, but a pattern that builds through many small interactions inside us? This is the idea behind network theories of emotion—a fresh way to understand how emotions form, grow, and sometimes become overwhelming…. Continue reading
A Cognitive Approach to Understanding Emotional Experience Emotions are often seen as automatic responses to external events. However, the appraisal theory of emotions offers a different perspective. According to this theory, emotions are not simply triggered by events themselves, but by how individuals interpret or evaluate those events. In other words, emotions arise from meaning-making…. Continue reading
If you’ve never been to therapy, you might picture it as a place where people lie on a couch and confess secrets they’ve never told anyone before. Or perhaps you imagine it’s only for moments of crisis—when someone hits “rock bottom” and needs to be “fixed.” These are some of the most common misconceptions about… Continue reading
Taking a break from therapy is more common than you might think. Life changes, busy schedules, or feeling like you’ve made progress can all be reasons to pause your sessions. But if you’re considering going back, it’s completely normal to feel a little unsure or even nervous about it. The good news is that returning… Continue reading
Specific phobias are strong, overwhelming fears of certain objects or situations. These fears can disrupt everyday life, but with proper treatment, it is possible to overcome them—even to the point where the fear response is completely extinguished. In this article, we explain what specific phobias are, detail the DSM-5 subtypes, and discuss treatment options that… Continue reading
Facing a serious health condition can be one of the most challenging experiences in life. Whether it’s a chronic illness, a life-altering diagnosis, or a sudden health crisis, the emotional and psychological toll can be overwhelming. While medical treatments focus on physical healing, therapy can play a crucial role in addressing the mental and emotional… Continue reading
In therapy, the connection between a client and their therapist often plays an important role in the success of the therapeutic process. This bond, commonly referred to as the therapeutic relationship, serves as the foundation for creating a safe and supportive space where change can take place. What is the Therapeutic Relationship? The therapeutic relationship… Continue reading
Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and it’s natural to have questions before diving in. Whether you’re seeking counseling for personal growth, mental health support, or dealing with a specific challenge, asking the right questions beforehand can help you feel more confident and prepared. Here’s a guide to what you might want to… Continue reading
Overthinking is something many of us experience from time to time. It’s that cycle of worrying about a decision or replaying past events in our minds. While some reflection is healthy, overthinking can become a habit that affects our mental health, making us feel anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed. What Is Overthinking? Overthinking is when we… Continue reading