These are unprecedented times. Last week, the world as we knew it shut down. If you are reading this, you get it. You have lived it in your corner of the world just like I have in mine. That is the thing about this situation. No one is immune to the problems and life interruptions COVID-19 is presenting.

This week, we are facing more of the same and it looks like this will be our reality for the foreseeable future. It is a confusing time for so many. There are no answers…at least no good ones. Some people are being inconvenienced while others are experiencing life changing affects.

With so many things we can’t control, I am encouraging my clients and myself to focus on what we can control. Looking at ways to stay in the moment, practice self-care and anxiety management are all some of the topics we have been addressing. It is not easy and especially difficult for those of us that already struggle with anxiety, depression, loneliness and/or addiction.

I am still supporting my clients with therapy in my office and video counseling. (We have implemented video counseling to help respond to clients’ needs during this time and it has proven extremely helpful.) I am also planning to update this website more frequently with practical suggestions for getting through this time.

As we look at our favorite social media feed or news outlet, we see a myriad of responses being played out. Some people are helping others, others are focusing on finding humor and for others, unfortunately, it has brought out more negative behaviors. And if we are really being honest, we can probably relate to all of the responses (both positive and negative). We get a choice in how we respond. Focusing on some of the silver lining effects of this situation doesn’t change the content but it can change our outlook and emotional demeanor. If we are feeling better, we can be more the person we want to be for ourselves and those we love.