ACA MEMBER BLOGS

The world is currently at a crossroads. Many of us are growing tired of the “new normal” that has required us to have varying levels of shelter in place, though we understand the need. As things progress, we are coming out of our cocoons, testing the waters of leaving our homes while still taking the precautions that make sense based on the available data.

As I reflect on the reasons why I have decided to take on the challenge of becoming a counselor and counselor educator, a number of reasons come to mind, particularly around the importance of social justice and advocacy.

Most of us enjoy getting out of the house and enjoy the bright sunshine especially in spring and summer when the daylight last longer. If you know anyone who experience symptoms of SAD, or is diagnosed with it, encourage them to get help and get outside more during the daylight.

Anger is a common and often misunderstood emotion between mothers and daughters. In my therapy work with mothers and daughters, I hear how deeply angry mothers and daughters of all ages can be with each other, how intensely hurt they feel when they don’t feel heard, understood, or valued.

Telehealth changes the way you accept payments from clients. Before you could easily swipe a card on a card reader attached to your phone, but with telehealth services, you’ll need to find another way. This article answers questions you may have regarding electronic payment services.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 16 million adults in the United States experience symptoms of depression each year. Adverse childhood experiences and individual characteristics like genetic markers and personality traits can be risk factors for depression, but stressful life events such as living through the COVID-19 pandemic can also influence the emergence of symptoms.

As a clinical supervisor, in addition to helping my supervisees process the anxiety they and their clients are experiencing during the pandemic, I believe it is equally important to dedicate time in supervision to processing the grief and loss aspects associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Many of us have experienced times when you call a parent of a student and cannot reach them. Please encourage your parents to update their address and phone number if they move and change contact information.

Encrypting your computers and smartphones is an excellent way to protect your data. Today practically every smartphone and computer can be easily encrypted.

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues that drives help-seeking behaviors in clients. And the COVID-19 pandemic may add stress that can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety.