What is Pet-Assisted Therapy?
Pet-assisted therapy uses animals to help people cope with a range of problems, from heart disease to mental health disorders. It is a structured therapy that uses animals to help lower stress, improve health problems, calm people down, and many more benefits. The human-animal bond can be very therapeutic. A review[1] of 17 studies about […]
What is Social Skills Training?
Social skills training is a type of therapy that helps people with mental health and developmental disorders improve social functioning. It helps them build communication and listening skills, as well as work through anxiety about social interactions. In social skills training, the therapist will ask you which social situations you find most challenging, and which […]
Six Reflections for Six Years Sober
Today I’m six years sober! As someone who drank upwards of 15 drinks every night for a decade (and did whatever drugs came my way when I was drunk), I’m proof recovery is possible. Six years ago, I couldn’t fathom how life would look without alcohol. A month, a week, a day sober—these were huge […]
New Study Measures Efficacy of Internet-Based CBT for Youth with Social Anxiety
A study published May 12th evaluated the effectiveness of internet-delivered cognitive behavioral Therapy (CBT) for youth with social anxiety disorder.[1] While CBT is considered the first line of treatment for social anxiety disorder, only 10% of people with the condition have seen a mental health professional.[2] This is in part due to access issues and […]
Why Therapy is so Important in Recovery
I’ve seen many therapists in my life, but I’ve been with my current one for by far the longest. Not coincidentally, she is the therapist I’ve seen throughout my sobriety. It’s very difficult to focus on your mental health when you’re drinking or using. The work starts when you get sober—and therapy is an important […]
Sober Stories: Angie
Can you tell me about your path to sobriety? What led you to the decision? In the summer of 2013, I was coming out of hands-down the most destructive relationship I had ever been in. I had been drinking a lot for a long time, but this summer was different. I was blacking out when […]
Should I Participate in Individual Therapy?
Individual therapy is a treatment that provides access to the support needed when dealing with problems. It is particularly useful in treating addiction and mental health issues like anxiety. Besides, it can help deal with anger issues and family conflicts caused by these problems. It’s critical to understand the importance of individual therapy and what […]