Navigating the Journey of Acceptance and Support Parenting is filled with unexpected moments—some bringing immense joy and others challenging us to grow. When your child comes out as LGBTQIA+, you might feel a range of emotions: love, confusion, worry, and even fear of fighting with family over differing views. You’re not alone in this. Many

Guilt is a complex emotion that often begins in childhood, and for many, it lingers long into adulthood. Whether it stems from feeling responsible for a parent’s emotions, trying to live up to their expectations, or believing that something we did (or didn’t do) was the cause of family turmoil, childhood guilt can weigh us

Feeling stuck in an energetic rut can be frustrating and overwhelming. An energetic rut refers to a state where we feel trapped in our emotions and/or routines, making achieving our goals seem impossible or far-fetched. In this state, we may experience procrastination, lack of motivation, fatigue, pessimism, or overall exhaustion. Prolonged periods of energetic ruts

Technology has undeniably transformed our lives in remarkable ways. It has revolutionized how we communicate, work, and even care for ourselves. Yet, as with any tool, its use comes with consequences—some subtle, others profound. In the realm of mental health, technology’s influence is complex, acting both as a helpful resource and a source of modern

Trauma is a deeply personal and often distressing experience that can take many forms. Whether it’s emotional, physical, sexual, or psychological, the impacts of trauma are profound and wide-ranging. What’s less talked about, however, is how trauma can influence us in ways we may not even recognize until years later. Sometimes, the aftermath of trauma

Sleep and anxiety are deeply connected. Perhaps this isn’t news to you, but you may be curious about how significantly one affects the other. In this blog, we’ll explore the relationship between sleep and anxiety, how poor sleep can exacerbate anxiety, and how improving sleep hygiene can be a powerful tool in managing it. By

Do you ever find yourself chasing the next job, relationship, or opportunity, only to feel unfulfilled once you’ve attained it? This restless search for a better “next” is often referred to as “grass is greener syndrome.” While it’s natural to desire growth and change, constantly believing the grass is greener elsewhere can hinder personal growth

The holiday season is a time that many eagerly anticipate, filled with joy, connection, and a sense of celebration. For introverts, this is perhaps one of the most overwhelming times of the year—mentally, emotionally, and sometimes physically draining. Amidst the chaos of busy schedules, family gatherings, and a whirlwind of social commitments, the introvert frequently

What happens to your thoughts when you are in a challenging or uncomfortable situation? Perhaps you notice they sound aggressive (blaming others or feeling angry), avoidant (feeling like you can’t deal with this or wanting to immediately escape), or maybe you feel paralyzed or stuck by your thoughts (feeling extremely overwhelmed or unsure what to

Anxiety, fear, and at times an overriding feeling of hopelessness— are all examples of what the recent election result has brought on. For many people whose survival, rights, and identities come into question, the burden of that anxiety can be very heavy. The purpose of this post is not to make those feelings go away

In today’s fast-paced world, many people feel overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, without realizing that their mental health might be linked to an unexpected source: their gut. At Awakened Path Counseling in New Jersey, we take a holistic approach to therapy, addressing not only your mental and emotional health but also your physical well-being. One of

What is your initial thought or feeling when you hear the word anger? In most cases, it’s viewed as a “negative emotion.” One reason anger gets a bad reputation is because we aren’t sure how to express it. If we admit to being angry at a person or situation, what do we do about it?

The postpartum period is a time of profound change—physically, emotionally, and mentally. As new mothers navigate the joys and challenges of caring for a newborn, it’s essential to prioritize their own well-being. A holistic approach to postpartum recovery, focusing on nutrition and gentle movement, can help new moms restore balance, alleviate postpartum pain, and embrace

Self-compassion might feel unfamiliar to many of us, but you’re not alone in that feeling. We’re often more used to self-criticism and judgment, especially when things go wrong or we face tough times. It’s common to think that being kind to ourselves during a difficult moment is like giving ourselves a free pass, which is

As the days of summer dwindle and the beginning of the school year approaches, feelings of excitement and nervousness can be overwhelming. Students are preparing for new classes and different social dynamics, parents are organizing schedules and expectations, and everyone is striving to find their footing in this transitional season. At Awakened Path Counseling, we

The word “no” often gets attached to being selfish. I invite you to instead view it as an act of self-preservation and an opportunity to create healthy boundaries.  If you think about the non-negotiables in your life, it starts with a no. Whether it is ensuring a bedtime routine, leaving work on time, or committing

Adolescence is a critical developmental phase marked by rapid changes and significant challenges. During this time, teens are especially vulnerable to stress and trauma, which can manifest in various psychological symptoms, including hallucinations. Understanding these effects and knowing how to address them is crucial for parents and caregivers. This blog post will explore the impact

Parenting is the most rewarding journey many of us will experience in life, but let’s face it – it can also be one of the most difficult. From sleepless nights with a newborn to the rebellious phases of teenagers, parents can experience a range of emotions, including anger and frustration. These feelings are natural, and