Beyond Mental Health

Trauma

Under and Above the Waves: Post-Traumatic Growth

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on November 4, 2024

What we can learn from tsunami survivor Chris Xaver about resilience

Trauma

Is It Possible to Heal Trauma in Therapy?

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on October 28, 2024

When it comes to the rainbow of experiences in trauma therapy, there are many common themes.

Eating Disorders

The Tricks Treats Play

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on October 24, 2024

From the crispy sweet taste of a caramel apple to a comfy sip of egg nog, treats can be delightful. Yet, how we relate to our treats can be tricky.

Autism

5 Things to Know About Pathological Demand Avoidance

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on October 22, 2024

Awareness of PDA has grown in recent years, but do we really know what it is?

Depression

When Depression Tells You That You're Worth Less Than Others

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on October 21, 2024

Research shows that when we are depressed we tend to see ourselves as less worthy of good things, which can sabotage us. What can we do?

Mental Health Stigma

Can Health Providers See Us Beyond Our Charts?

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on October 16, 2024

People living with mental health conditions can feel behind the eight ball when it comes to advocating for themselves in a medical setting. Here are three strategies that can help.

Psychiatry

When a Hospital Feels Like a Prison

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on October 15, 2024

Psychiatric hospitalization in America is traditionally done in a highly restricted setting. Are these practices counter-therapeutic?

OCD

Is There Something More to OCD Than Suffering?

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on October 13, 2024

OCD can be painful. Does it represent something more?

Fear

Deep Connections Around Death for an Enriched Life

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on October 1, 2024

An interview with physician and advocate Shoshana Ungerleider, M.D.

Autism

The Problem With the Term "Functioning"

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on September 30, 2024

What does "high-functioning" even mean?

Grief

Are Some Things Unacceptable? On Radical Acceptance

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on September 24, 2024

Does radical acceptance play a role in healing from grief, estrangement and trauma?

Psychosis

Can Trauma or PTSD Cause Psychosis?

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on September 23, 2024

The relationship between psychosis and trauma is complex.

Deception

Are You Lying to Your Therapist? Are They Lying to You?

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on September 22, 2024

The request for total honesty in therapy is a tall order.

Neurodiversity

When Neurodivergence Meets the Teen Social Scene

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on September 17, 2024

The mysterious codes of the adolescent social scene are tricky, especially for neurodivergent teens. Two neurodiversity experts speak out on social connection and inclusion.

Mental Health Stigma

Final Rule Marks Victory for Mental Health Equality

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on September 10, 2024

The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equality Act of 2008 was meant to expand mental health coverage to match physical health coverage. Challenges remain.

Suicide

Your Life Is Worth So Much More Than a Phone Call

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on September 9, 2024

September is Suicide Prevention Month.

Attention

When Is a Problem Actually a Problem?

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on September 8, 2024

When is a problem actually a problem? It's a question that can be surprisingly tricky.

Family Dynamics

Caught in the Drama Triangle?

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on September 3, 2024

We are not characters in a play.

OCD

Psychosis, OCD, and Questions of Reality

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on September 2, 2024

What can OCD and psychosis teach us about the nature of reality?

Autism

How to Best Support Autistic Children in Grade School and Beyond

Jennifer Gerlach LCSW on August 29, 2024

Autistic children face a variety of challenges in school, including an increased risk of bullying and social challenges. How can schools create a welcoming space for them?