“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” – Carl Rogers, On Becoming a Person Upon hearing the quote above, some individuals question psychotherapist, Carl Rogers’s message. You may similarly wonder, “How does that work?” The idea of Acceptance preceding Change goes against much of theContinue reading “Acceptance & Empowerment: When Change Happens Deeply”
Author Archives: Lydia Minear, M.A., Counselor
On the Parent, Adult, & Child Within: The Voices that Guide Us
Psychotherapist & founder of Transactional Analysis, Eric Berne, is famous for creating P-A-C (Parent-Adult-Child), a theory about personality based on the idea that each person contains three psychological positions or “voices” that guide our interactions & choices. I have found that this creative framework allows us an opportunity to better understand ourselves and the way we interactContinue reading “On the Parent, Adult, & Child Within: The Voices that Guide Us”
Healing & Uniting in Relationship: Three Keys to Constructive Communication
“Communication leads to community, that is, to understanding, intimacy and mutual valuing.” ~ Rollo May (late psychologist/psychotherapist) Communication is key in not only healing from wounds in relationship but also – as Rollo May states (above) – it is essential in truly understanding another person, being understood yourself, and cultivating intimacy and mutual respect together.Continue reading “Healing & Uniting in Relationship: Three Keys to Constructive Communication”
Noticing Vs. Judging Your Feelings [ A More Compassionate Way ]
“But feelings can’t be ignored, no matter how unjust or ungrateful they may seem.” ~ Ann Frank I have a paper tucked away in my office drawer that I like to pull out every once in a while with clients. On it you’ll find a list of several dozen “Feeling Words” – each listed underContinue reading “Noticing Vs. Judging Your Feelings [ A More Compassionate Way ]”
Meeting as Equals: The Value of Person-Centered Therapy
In an earlier post, I discussed the counseling style I adhere to: person-centered therapy. Today, I’d like to share a short video clip from an interview with the founder of person-centered therapy, the late Carl Rogers. To me, his thoughts at minute 1:20 & 3:00 highlight the essence of this particular psychotherapy style. “I think thatContinue reading “Meeting as Equals: The Value of Person-Centered Therapy”
Un-plugging this Summer: 9 Fun Activities for Teens Offline
Summer can be a breathe of fresh air for both teens and their parents who have survived the grueling, hectic schedule of the school year. In a previous post, I discuss the realities of stress that accompany adolescence, often due to the sheer number of changes and challenges that occur during this time of growing up.Continue reading “Un-plugging this Summer: 9 Fun Activities for Teens Offline”
Why Counselors Welcome Silence in Session
I have found that people often hold one of two fears about counselors: (1) Counselors exist to tell me what to do and what not to do. (In essence, the belief that counselors exist as advice-givers i.e., An extension of your parent, spouse, or boss.) (2) Counselors just sit in silence, nodding, and writing notesContinue reading “Why Counselors Welcome Silence in Session”
The Stress of Adolescence: 3 Reminders for Parents of Teens
CRCT testing. SATs. Final exams. Finding a date to prom. Passing the driver’s test. Do I trust them? Do they like me? How do I look? My parents don’t get it…. My teachers won’t give me a break. Grades. AP Classes. Group Projects. Sports. Extracurricular activities. Parties. Dating. Sex? Fitting-in. Social media. Graduation. First job.Continue reading “The Stress of Adolescence: 3 Reminders for Parents of Teens”
Daring Greatly [by Brené Brown] Book Review: Wholehearted Living Vs. “Culture of Scarcity”
In the month of February, I had the pleasure of reading Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, & Parent, by talented writer & research professor, Brené Brown. I consider Daring Greatly to be a fantastic – and important read for anyone who has felt or currently feels stunted – perhaps relationally, professionally,Continue reading “Daring Greatly [by Brené Brown] Book Review: Wholehearted Living Vs. “Culture of Scarcity””
The Power of Boundaries for the “Highly Sensitive”
“Boundaries define us. They define what is me and what is not me. A boundary shows me where I end and someone else begins, leading me to a sense of ownership. Knowing what I am to own & take responsibility for gives me freedom.” – Henry Cloud in the book, Boundaries: When to Say Yes &Continue reading “The Power of Boundaries for the “Highly Sensitive””
Lydia Minear LPC 