Why does cbt often fail to treat ocd?

CBT, cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches people to identify their unhelpful thought patterns and to think of them more logically. At OCD’s core, it convinces people that very unlikely scenarios are going to happen or have happened. If you were to apply CBT to this, it generally causes people to engage in compulsions, reassurance seeking and strengthens the OCD.

Let’s use an example! If someone has contamination OCD with regards to illnesses, that person may think, “what if I got sick from interacting with that person”. For example purposes, lets say the person they are worried about is showing little to no signs of illness.

If we were to apply CBT to this, CBT tells us to label this thought as catastrophic thinking or future telling. The next step in CBT would be to reframe the thought and think of it differently. The reframe could look like, “that person is not presenting as sick, it is highly unlikely I will get sick from them and if I do, I will be okay”.

What is problematic about this approach for people with OCD? OCD thrives off of uncertainty and telling yourself “it probably won’t happen or it’s probably not true”, will absolutely not help your OCD. Another thing that could happen with CBT is that you can start using it in a compulsatory manner.

The gold standard in OCD treatment is ACT & ERP. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Exposure with Response Prevention Therapy. If you are located in New Jersey and looking for OCD treatment please contact one of our therapists today. It is really important you find the proper techniques and care when treating OCD.

We offer treatment for OCD and therapy in Bergen County, Hudson County, Somerset County and virtually through out the rest of NJ. Call to talk to a therapist today!

What will my first therapy session be like?

“What will my first therapy session be like,” is a question that goes through all of our minds if we are new to therapy or if we are simply switching therapists. The answer to that question is not that simple. To answer this question more we need to look more at the uniqueness of each therapist

Every therapist is not the same and there are many different types of therapy.

Let’s go back to the basics of therapy. Generally speaking, people seek out a therapist when they are struggling with a particular problem and want help. Just like a math problem or a cooking recipe, there are many different ways to get to the same results. All this being said, therapy intakes, which are usually done in the first session should have some similarities.

Intakes are done to get biosocial backgrounds of clients. This is when a therapist may ask individuals where they grew up, about family life, their mental health history etc. This is all typically done in the first session. Therapists want to get to know their client, what they are looking for help with and they need to be able to construct an accurate picture of the clients life.

All these details of client history are an important part of the puzzle to help your therapist but the more important part is developing a positive and trusting relationship with your therapist, thus, many therapists may spend the first session developing rapport.

Rapport building can take time in therapy but it is essential that clients trust their therapist and feel comfortable to speak freely.

To recap, every therapists practices differently but for your first therapy session you can mostly likely anticipate your therapist asking you background questions to gather your history and for them to begin to try to develop rapport with you. The rapport building might look as simple as learning what you like to do for fun or self-discloses their favorite tv shows to break the ice!

NJ Online therapy

Benefits Of Online Therapy

Most people are aware of the advantages of online therapy and occasionally need to get it. It can be a fulfilling and worthwhile experience that helps us overcome obstacles in life that we might not be able to do on our own.

Regrettably, many people still struggle to seek therapy for various reasons. Finding the time and energy to meet with a therapist may be difficult due to the persistent social stigma associated with seeking assistance with our mental health.

What is Online Therapy?

Online therapy, often known as teletherapy or telehealth, is a way to provide mental health care online. A licensed therapist can do this through phone calls, texts, or video chats. Many may find it flexible and convenient to obtain mental health therapy online from the comfort of their own homes.

Accessing Bergen county therapy may be simple and efficient when done online. There is no need to leave your home to visit a physical office; you can attend therapy sessions there. This can save you time and make integrating therapy into your hectic schedule easier.

What are the Benefits of Online Therapy?

The environment we live in today can be stressful, and mental health issues are rising. Fortunately, people are increasingly turning to online therapy to get aid. There are several advantages to dealing with an online therapist if you live in New Jersey and are considering starting therapy.

In this article, we'll discuss the benefits of online counselling and how it can assist you in resolving your mental health problems.

● Convenience and Accessibility

Online therapy's accessibility and convenience are two of its main advantages. You can receive mental health therapys from the comfort of your home with online therapy.

Those who live in rural places, have mobility problems, or have busy schedules may find this extremely beneficial. By removing the requirement for transportation, online therapy makes it simpler for you to get the help you require.

● Flexibility

The schedule of online therapy is also flexible. The availability of evening and weekend sessions from many online therapists makes it simpler for people to integrate therapy into their hectic lives. Those with childcare obligations or working long hours may find this flexibility beneficial.

● Privacy and Anonymity

A sense of privacy and anonymity that may not be achievable with conventional in-person therapy can be provided via online counselling.

This can be extremely important for those who are hesitant to seek therapy due to stigma or concerns about being judged. By employing online counselling, people can access mental health services in the comfort and privacy of their homes.

● Cost-Effective

For many people, online therapy can be a financially responsible choice. Online therapy can reduce travel expenses because it doesn't require a vehicle. Also, some online therapists may charge less than their in-person counterparts, making counselling more accessible to individuals without insurance.

● Specialized Services

If you're looking for specialized services, such as therapy from OCD online therapist, an online therapist specialising in that area can provide the information you need. In the New Jersey region, numerous online therapists specialize in various mental health issues, such as trauma, depression, anxiety, and more.

Who Needs Online NJ Therapy?

A broad spectrum of people, including those who deal with anxiety, sadness, OCD, PTSD, and other mental health issues, can benefit from online therapy. Those going through a difficult moment, such as a divorce, job loss, or a significant life upheaval, might also find it helpful.

Those who may have trouble receiving conventional in-person therapy, such as those who reside in rural places, have mobility problems or have busy schedules, may find particular benefit from online counselling. Also, it can be helpful for those who feel more comfortable receiving therapy in the convenience of their own homes.

Finding an NJ Online Therapist

Finding the ideal therapist is essential to your therapy, regardless of whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, or other mental health issues.

Searching online directories or websites that provide mental healthcare is one of the most practical ways to locate an NJ online therapist that provides top NJ therapy. You can find a list of local therapists who offer online counselling through these tools. You can narrow your search based on geography, specialisation, and other aspects to discover a therapist who meets your needs.

The credentials and experience of the NJ online therapistyou choose are also essential to consider. Working with a qualified therapist who has handled the issues affecting your mental health is explicitly necessary. You should seek a therapist familiar with the particular difficulties associated with your setting and way of life because, for instance, Bergen county therapist may differ from Hudson County therapist.

Several advantages of online therapy include ease, adaptability, and privacy. With an internet connection, you may attend therapy sessions from any location, and you can select a therapist who specialises in the particular mental health condition you're experiencing. For instance, you can get specialised therapy from an OCD online therapist that considers the specific difficulties of having OCD.

Use internet directories and websites dedicated to mental healthcare to identify therapists in your area, and when choosing one, consider aspects like training, experience, and therapy approach. Online therapy can efficiently address mental health concerns and enhance your general well-being when used with the correct therapist.

Eating disorder treatment typs

Treatment Options for Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are more than just an unhealthy relationship with food. They are complex mental health conditions that can profoundly impact an individual’s physical, emotional, and social well-being. The good news is that with appropriate treatment and support, individuals can recover from an eating disorder and live a healthy and fulfilling life. Whether you're struggling with an eating disorder or seeking to help a loved one, you can always opt to obtain online eating disorder help in New Jersey and utilize the following treatment options. So, let's discover the path to a healthier and happier life for you!

Types of Therapy

Psychotherapy is the cornerstone of treatment for eating disorders. Different types of therapy may be used, depending on the individual's needs and the seriousness of their condition. Some of the most commonly used therapies include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is commonly used to treat eating disorders. CBT aims to help individuals identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors related to their eating disorders. During therapy sessions, the therapist works with the individual to examine their thoughts and beliefs about food, weight, and their body and helps them recognize negative thinking patterns. The therapist then teaches the individual new coping strategies and allows them to practice these strategies in real-life situations.

• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) focuses on improving communication and relationships, as well as resolving conflicts that may contribute to an eating disorder. IPT recognizes that eating disorders often develop as a way of coping with relationship problems and aims to help individuals build stronger and healthier relationships with others. The therapist helps the individual identify and resolve conflicts with family, friends, or romantic partners, thus improving communication skills.

• Family-Based Therapy (FBT) involves the family's participation in the treatment process and is often used to treat adolescent eating disorders. FBT is based on the idea that parents play a critical role in helping their child recover from an eating disorder. The therapy sessions involve the therapist working with the individual and their family to help them regain control over their eating habits and restore a healthy weight.

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is designed to help individuals manage emotions and improve their ability to regulate their behavior. It strives to assist people in finding better methods to cope with strong emotions while acknowledging that eating disorders are frequently used as a coping mechanism. During therapy sessions, the therapist instructs patients on emotional management techniques such as mindfulness, emotional control, and distress tolerance.

Meal Plans

An integral part of treatment for an eating disorder is restoring healthy eating habits and achieving a healthy weight. This may involve working with a registered dietitian to create a balanced and nutritionally adequate meal plan. The goal is to help individuals learn to eat regular meals and snacks, as well as develop healthy attitudes towards food and their bodies.

How can a dietitian provide online eating disorder help in New Jersey?

A registered dietitian can provide online eating disorder help in New Jersey, playing a crucial role in supporting, educating, and guiding the patient regarding the right nutrition. They can offer assistance with meal preparation, grocery shopping, and cooking while educating the individual on how to deal with stress and anxiety brought on by food. The support they provide is a bonus, which might involve assisting the person in overcoming their concerns and anxieties related to eating whileoffering advice on dealing with setbacks and difficulties during the journey.

Other Treatment Approaches

In addition to therapy and dietitian help, treatment for an eating disorder may also include:

• Medications: Antidepressants, antipsychotics, and other medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive behavior associated with an eating disorder.

• Support groups: Joining a support group can provide a secure and supportive environment where patients can connect with others struggling with an eating disorder.

• Exercise: Regular exercise can help improve physical and emotional well-being and is often included as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for an eating disorder.

With the right treatments, you or your loved ones can recover from an eating disorder and learn to maintain a healthy relationship with food. Online eating disorder help in New Jersey can make the road to recovery easier for you. You’ve only got to have the will for it!

types of eating disorders and where to get help in nj!

Understanding The Different Forms Of Eating Disorders And Their Symptoms

As their name suggests, eating disorders often result in disturbed and unhealthy eating patterns, but the food is not the only factor that affects them or gives rise to them. Instead, they are complex mental health problems that frequently need the knowledge of medical and psychiatric experts to alter their course. Even though there are several varieties of eating disorders, they all always center on food, weight, and body image. The disorders can be challenging to recognize, but early intervention is crucial for recovery. Bergen County eating disorder specialist can assist those with such conditions.

Types of Eating Disorders

Bulimia Nervosa

Individuals with bulimia nervosa, a common type of eating disorder, oscillate between bingeing and purging. People with bulimia may eat large quantities of food in a short period of time, then try to get rid of the calories through vomiting, laxatives, or excessive exercise. Physical symptoms of bulimia nervosa may include changes in weight, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances.

Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is characterized by a persistent dread of gaining weight and a mistaken perception of one's physique. People with anorexia will often restrict their food intake to the point of starvation and may also engage in excessive exercise or purging behaviors. It can surface in the form of extreme weight loss, thinning hair, fatigue, and an irregular menstrual cycle.

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

ARFID is a type of eating disorder outlined by a failure to meet nutritional needs due to a lack of interest in food or avoidance of specific foods. People with ARFID may experience weight loss or growth delays, as well as nutrient deficiencies. ARFID can also impact a person's social life, as they may avoid eating in public or with others.

Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating without the compensatory behaviors seen in bulimia nervosa. People suffering from binge eating disorder may consume large amounts of food quickly and feel a loss of control during the binge. Weight gain, digestive issues, and a greater risk of obesity and other health issues are some physical signs of a binge eating disorder.

Recognizing Eating Disorders

Even though it might be difficult to see the warning symptoms of an eating disorder, they are an essential component in indicating the underlying condition. Some common symptoms of an eating disorder include:

● Significant changes in weight or eating habits

● Extreme focus on food, weight, and body image

● Avoidance of certain foods or food groups

● An obsession with calorie counting or label reading

● Irregular menstrual cycles or amenorrhea

● Engaging in purging behaviors or excessive exercise

● Anxiety or distress related to food or body image

How Bergen County Eating Disorder Specialist can help

If you suspect that you or someone you know may have an eating disorder, don't be afraid to seek professional help; you can always reach out to a Bergen county eating disorder specialist. Remember, eating disorders are treatable, but the earlier they are identified and addressed, the better your chances of recovery!

Eating DISORDER warning signs and treatment. New jersey eating disorder therapy.

Eating disorders

Eating disorders are serious issues brought on by recurrent eating behaviours that harm your health, emotions, and ability to perform essential life responsibilities.

The three most common eating disorders are binge eating, bulimia nervosa, and anorexia nervosa.

Obsessive attention to one's weight, body shape, and diet is a common component of eating disorders and can lead to unhealthy eating patterns. These behaviours may severely impair your body's ability to absorb the proper nutrients.

The heart, gastrointestinal system, bones, teeth, and mouth can all be harmed by eating disorders and other body systems.

Eating disorders often begin while a person is a teen or a young adult. However, they can occur later. Eating disorder specialist in NJ can help you change your eating patterns, and in some circumstances, the severe side effects of an eating disorder can be overcome.

An eating disorder: what is it?

An unhealthy obsession with food, exercise, or body image is a significant mental health issue known as an eating disorder.

Any individual, regardless of culture, gender, or age, can have an eating disorder. In their lives, approximately 1 in 7 persons will develop an eating disorder.

Any of the following may occur if you suffer from an eating disorder:

● An obsession with and worrying about food, weight gain, and appearance.

● A concern with putting on weight

● When you haven't eaten, you let everyone around you believe it.

● You keep your eating habits a secret as you are aware of their adverse effects.

● You experience anxiety, sadness, or guilt after eating.

● You believe that food is beyond your control.

● You frequently inspect your body by pinching your waist or weighing yourself.

● Using laxatives or forcing oneself to vomit to reduce weight

COMMON SYMPTOMS OF AN EATING DISORDER

Symptoms are both psychological and behavioural.

Behaviours and attitudes that, in general, imply that losing weight, dieting, and having better control over food are becoming essential issues

● Obsession with one's physique, food, nutrition, calories, carbohydrates, and fat intake, as well as dieting

● Refusal to consume particular foods may eventually lead to prohibitions on the consumption of entire food groups (e.g., no carbohydrates, etc.)

● Appears to feel awkward eating in front of other people.

● Meal rituals include exclusively consuming one type of food or one group of foods (such as condiments), extensive chewing, and not allowing foods to come into contact with one another.

● Skipping meals or eating only a modest amount at each meal might lead to weight gain.

● Any novel approaches to nutrition or fad diets, such as excluding entire categories of foods (no sugar, no carbohydrates, no dairy, vegetarianism/veganism), are not recommended.

● isolation from one's regular circle of friends and activities

● Frequent dieting

● Extreme preoccupation with one's physical size and shape Frequent inspection of oneself in the mirror to locate and correct perceived defects in one's appearance

● Extreme mood swings

Physical Symptoms may include:

● Variations in weight that are easily observable, both ascending and descending

● A variety of non-specific gastrointestinal problems, including cramping in the stomach (constipation, acid reflux, etc.)

● Menstrual abnormalities, such as skipping periods or only having a period when taking hormonal contraceptives (which is not regarded as a "real" period), are common in sexually active women.

● Problems focussing on what's being said

● abnormalities discovered in the laboratory (anaemia, low thyroid and hormone levels, low potassium, soft white and red blood cell counts)

● Symptoms of dizziness, particularly when standing

● Fainting/syncope

● Having a constant feeling of chilliness

● Sleep troubles

● The tops of the finger joints have cuts and calluses all across them (a result of inducing vomiting)

● Problems with one's teeth can include enamel degradation, cavities, and sensitive teeth.

● Skin, hair, and nails that are dry and brittle.

● enlargement of the region surrounding the salivary glands

● Fine hair on the body (lanugo)

● Cavities and discolouration of the teeth as a result of persistent vomiting

● Weakness in the muscles

● Yellow skin (in the context of eating excessive amounts of carrots) (in the context of eating large amounts of carrots)

● Symptoms include cold, mottled hands and feet, and foot swelling.

● Poor healing of the wound

● malfunctioning of the immune system

Types of eating disorders

Please remember that eating disorders are highly complicated, and not all eating problems will satisfy the diagnostic criteria for an eating disorder. Concerns about eating must always be treated seriously.

1. Anorexia Nervosa

The eating disorder anorexia nervosa is marked by weight loss (or inadequate weight gain in growing children), difficulty maintaining a healthy body weight for one's height, age, and stature, and, in many cases, a distorted perception of one's own body.

People who have anorexia typically limit their calorie intake and the kinds of food they eat. Other symptoms of the illness include compulsive exercise, laxative use, and binge eating.

2. Binge Eating Disorder

The severe, potentially fatal, and treatable eating disorder known as binge eating disorder (BED) is characterised by recurrent episodes of eating a lot of food, frequently quickly and to the point of discomfort, feeling out of control while doing so, feeling shame, distress, or guilt afterwards, and not often engaging in unhealthy coping mechanisms (such as purging) to deal with the binge eating. In the US, it is the most prevalent eating disorder.

3. Other Specified Feeding and Eating Disorders (OSFED)

Earlier versions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual referred to Other Specified Feeding and Eating Disorders (OSFED) as Eating Disorder.

OSFED/EDNOS is a serious, life-threatening, and treatable eating disorder despite being regarded as a "catch-all" categorization that was sometimes refused insurance coverage for treatment because it was thought to be less dangerous.

The classification was created to include people with severe eating disorders but did not strictly fit the diagnostic criteria for anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa. The majority of patients received EDNOS diagnoses traditionally at community clinics.

4. Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

Previously known as "Selective Eating Disorder," Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is a new diagnosis in the DSM-5.

ARFID and anorexia are similar in that both diseases entail restrictions on the quantity and types of food consumed. Still, ARFID does not involve anxiety over body size or shape or a fear of being overweight like anorexia does.

“A person with ARFID does not consume enough calories to grow and develop appropriately or, in adulthood, maintain essential body function, despite many kids going through picky or selective eating episodes, says Bergen county therapist”.

When this happens to youngsters, weight increases and vertical height is stunted; weight loss occurs when it happens to adults. ARFID can cause issues in school or the office because it makes eating with others difficult and necessitates extended meal periods.

5. Rumination Disorder

Regularly regurgitating meals for at least a month constitutes a rumination disorder. Food that has been repeated can be swallowed, chewed again, or spit out. Usually, when someone vomits their food, they don't seem to be trying or anxious, unhappy, or disgusted.

6. Unspecified Feeding or Eating Disorder (UFED)

Unspecified Feeding or Eating Disorder (UFED) is a diagnosis given to individuals who exhibit symptoms of an eating disorder but do not fully meet the criteria for any specific eating disorder, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge eating disorder.

Symptoms of UFED may include eating disorders, such as skipping meals, overeating, or engaging in binge-purge cycles, along with negative thoughts and emotions about food and body weight.

Treatment for UFED may involve a combination of psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy or dialectical behaviour therapy, as well as nutritional counselling and support from a registered dietitian.

In some cases, medications may also be prescribed to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive behaviours.

It's essential to seek the help of Bergen county eating disorder therapist for a proper diagnosis and individualised treatment plan. With appropriate treatment and support, individuals with UFED can recover and learn to develop a healthy relationship with food and their bodies.

Common Signs & Symptoms:

According to Bergen county therapist:

● Evidence of binge eating can include enormous volumes of food being consumed quickly or many empty food wrappers and containers, suggesting that a significant quantity of food was ingested.

● Evidence of purging activities, such as numerous trips to the restroom after meals, vomiting symptoms or odours, or the presence of laxative or diuretic wrappers or packages, excessive consumption of non-caloric beverages, water, mouthwash, gum, and non-caloric mints has calluses from self-inflicted vomiting on the back of the hands and the knuckles have evidence of excessive consumption of non-caloric beverages, water, mouthwash, gum, and

● Dental problems such as tooth sensitivity, cavities, tooth discolouration from vomiting, and enamel degradation can all be caused by these things.

Treatment options for eating disorder

Treatment for eating disorders is individual and dependent on the type of eating disorder as well as the symptoms of the patient. In most cases, it involves a mix of psychological counselling (psychotherapy), education on nutrition, medical monitoring, and occasionally medication use. Bergen county eating disorder therapist offers Treatment for eating disorders.

Treatment for eating disorders typically requires addressing various related health issues, many of which, if left untreated for an extended period, can develop into significant or even life-threatening conditions in their own right.

If you have an eating disorder and regular therapy isn't helping you get better, or if your eating disorder is causing health problems, you may require hospitalisation or another form of an inpatient programme.

You will be able to control your symptoms better, return to a healthy weight, and take better care of your physical and emotional health if you take an organised approach to treating your eating disorder.

Where to start the treatment?

You will benefit from being sent to a team of professionals who specialise in treating eating disorders, regardless of whether you start by seeing your primary care practitioner or some other form of a mental health professional. Your treatment team might consist of the following members:

● A psychologist or other mental health professional offers psychological therapy. Visit a Bergen county therapistif you require medication prescription and management. Psychotherapy is another service that some psychiatrists offer.

● To provide information on nutrition and meal preparation, a qualified dietitian.

● specialists in medicine or dentistry to address any dental or other health issues brought on by your eating disorder.

● Your spouse, parents, or other relatives. Parents should be actively involved in their child's treatment and may help with mealtime supervision if the child is still living at home.

The best way to ensure that any necessary changes to your therapy are implemented is for everyone engaged in it to be informed about your progress.

It can be difficult to control an eating issue over time. Although if your eating disorder and other health issues are under control, you might need to keep going to frequent appointments with the members of your treatment team.

Psychological treatment

The most crucial element of treatment for eating disorders is psychological counselling. It entails routinely visiting a Bergen county eating disorder therapist or other mental health specialist.

It could take months or years to complete therapy. It can assist you in the following:

● Get your eating habits back to normal so you can reach a healthy weight.

● Replace bad habits with good ones.

● Learn to keep an eye on your eating and mood.

● Develop your problem-solving abilities and look into suitable coping mechanisms for difficult times.

● Enhance your connections.

● Boost your mood

The course of treatment may include a mix of several forms of therapy, including:

1. The cognitive behavioural approach.

This psychotherapy focuses on your eating disorder-related actions, ideas, and emotions. Assisting you in developing healthy eating habits, it teaches you how to identify and alter faulty thinking that results in behaviours associated with eating disorders.

2. Family-centred counselling

Family members learn how to assist you in reestablishing appropriate eating habits and achieving a healthy weight during this therapy until you can do it on your own. For parents to understand how to support a teen with an eating issue, this kind of counselling can be beneficial.

3. Cognitive behavioural treatment in groups

Meetings with an eating disorder specialist in nj or contact nj eating disorder help centre and individuals identified as having an eating issue are part of this therapy.

It can assist you in addressing your eating disorder-related thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, learning how to control your symptoms, and reestablishing good eating habits.

You might be given homework by your psychologist or Bergen county therapist, such as keeping a food journal to discuss during therapy sessions and figuring out what sets you off for binges, purges, or other harmful eating habits.

The Harrowing Relationship Between Anxiety and Trauma and How to Manage It

The mental health epidemic is one of the largest health concerns we are facing as a society at the moment. From early adolescents to elders, mental illnesses seem to have a hold on people of all ages and professions. The most common mental disorders to have paralyzed people around the globe are anxiety and depressive disorders.

As a result, suicide has been reported as the fourth leading cause of death among people in the 15-29 age group. According to the latest report on mental illnesses by the WHO (World Health Organization), people who suffer from mental disorders end up dying an untimely death.

The WHO's estimate also states that 1 in every 8 people in the world lives with a mental disorder.

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety can be defined as a state of mind governed by excessive worry. What separates anxiety disorders from phobias is that there is no perceivable reason for being anxious. The person suffering can't identify the trigger, and perhaps that is the most debilitating part of living with an anxiety disorder.

In 2019, a total of 301 million were living with an anxiety disorder. There are different types of anxiety disorders. They are - Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), panic disorder (defined by recurring panic attacks), social anxiety disorder (fear of social situations), separation anxiety disorder (referred to as a seemingly endless fear of being separated from someone), etc.

While the term anxiety encompasses a wide variety of symptoms and complications for the people living with them, our focus today is going to be on trauma and the correlation between the two.

What is Trauma?

Trauma can be described as the mental impression caused by a particularly difficult experience in someone's life. While all types of incidents that induce fear and anxiety can cause trauma, some of the most common forces behind this condition are sexual abuse, domestic abuse, childhood abuse, and emotional and physical abuse.

For a long time, a common misconception stated that only soldiers returning from the war were susceptible to developing trauma responses, or PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). But, as time passed, researchers found that PTSD can be caused by any stressful situation depending on the patient's capacity to deal with the said crisis.

Why do people who have experienced trauma deal with anxiety?

People who have undergone some form of trauma in their life will go on to experience anxiety. Why? Well, the simple definition of a traumatic incident is that someone had to face a situation that was out of bounds for them.

When people end up facing a similar condition later, their brain goes through exactly what it went through when the traumatic incident had first taken place. That said, each and every characteristic of the incident does not have to be replicated.

Anxiety gets triggered by familiar features of the previous setting, like sound, smell, light, etc. When someone comes face to face with the characteristics of a particularly traumatic incident that had caused them suffering and pain, anxiety becomes almost instinctive.

Before the person realizes it, they would either be experiencing physical or mental manifestations of anxiety. Anxiety shows up physically in the form of body pain, headaches, sweating, inability to speak or move, etc. The mental expression of anxiety comes out in responses like shock, fear, panic, etc.

How can you manage Trauma and Anxiety in therapy?

The discipline of psychology has always treated therapy as an effective method of dealing with serious mental disorders. However, there are different types of therapy – for example, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, etc.

In therapy, people suffering from PTSD and anxiety as a result of it, are taught breathing exercises to help them navigate their way through a panic attack or an anxiety attack. This is a helpful tool for people to use when they are caught in a bind.

A common therapy practice is to teach patients how to count five things they can see, four things they can physically feel, three things they can hear, two things they can smell, and one thing they can taste. This is essentially a grounding exercise. It makes individuals more aware of what's happening in their surroundings instead of getting stuck in their anxiety-ridden thought processes.

Then there's exposure therapy. The point of exposure therapy is to place individuals in an anxiety-inducing environment and let them stay there for as long as they can. The premise here is to make them realize that they are strong enough to deal with the situation if they face their fear completely.

However, this specific practice comes with the assurance that the therapist will take the individual out of the said environment whenever it gets too much for them. This instills in them the belief that they can always get out and that their fear is unwarranted, but it does not give them a tangible tool to get through the mental pain they are feeling.

Somatic Healing

One of the most effective ways of managing trauma and anxiety is by practicing somatic therapy. The principles of somatic therapy dictate that trauma messes with the individual's nervous system, which eventually renders them incapable of dealing with the pain and fear they are experiencing.

Somatic healing takes place when the individual is made aware of the changes their mental illness is making to their physical extremities. Somatic therapists believe this awareness allows them to view their pain objectively and find a way out of it.

Some common practices performed for somatic healing to take place are:

● Breathing Exercise

● Grounding Exercise

● Dance therapy

● Physical Exercise

● Sensation awareness

● Massage

Top Anxiety Treatments

The nature of anxiety is such that the individual can't figure out what worries them. However, therapy practitioners believe that anxious thoughts and feelings can be worked through by getting to the root cause of them.

While this seems like a good hypothesis, it involves recalling even more traumatic incidents in the individual's life. Once someone becomes aware of the root cause of their anxiety, there are two ways to go - one, where they resolve the conflict in them by facing the truth of what happened. This works for most people.

The second way to go, sadly, further descends into a mental space where the intensity of their fear increases. Slowly, the individual develops more and more trauma responses that go back to incidents as far as their childhood.

This is the point where their trauma responses become a part of their identity. It's known as Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD). It's also referred to as the counterpart of one of the most debilitating personality disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).

Marsha M. Linehan, a world-renowned psychologist, founded Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) specifically to treat Borderline Personality Disorder. DBT proved to be an effective treatment plan for people with suicidal ideation, PTSD, anxiety, etc.

DBT is one of the top anxiety treatments out there. It's essential to find a DBT practitioner certified in this specific form of therapy.

Furthermore, one can turn to pharmacotherapy. This is defined as the use of antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs, and benzodiazepines to treat the symptoms of anxiety.

Ideally, psychotherapy (DBT) and pharmacology should go hand in hand. The individual should take their medication as prescribed on time and attend regular therapy sessions.

In short, anxiety and trauma are correlated in the way they affect people. This is because they both induce a similar response in the individual - fear. But, they can be dealt with. If you are in a bad headspace, we hope you use the information above to seek professional help.  Please contact 911 or head to the nearest emergency room if you are having thoughts of suicide or harm.

What exactly is therapy?

What is psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is any treatment for mental health issues involving talking to a professional such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or another mental health specialist. Throughout psychotherapy, you will gain insight into your current state of mind and your past and present emotions, ideas, and actions related to your condition. Psychotherapy teaches you to manage your feelings and take action in the event of difficulty.

Psychotherapy can handle various forms, each with its own goals and methods. Your unique circumstances will determine which form of psychotherapy will be most beneficial to you. You may have heard of psychotherapy by one of its many other names: talk therapy, counseling, psychosocial treatment, or regular good therapy.

Psychotherapy may assist with various issues related to day-to-day functioning, the after-effects of traumatic events, medical disease, or losses like the death of a loved one, and psychiatric conditions like depression and anxiety. Different psychotherapies may be more effective in treating particular conditions. Sometimes it's best to employ a combination of approaches, such as medicine and talk therapy.

Role of a Psychotherapist?

The goal of psychotherapy is to improve one's quality of life and health via the use of therapeutic conversations with a trained professional. Positive changes in the body and brain have been linked to the emotional and behavioral improvements seen in those who undertake psychotherapy. During talk therapy, the therapist's primary responsibilities include the following:

• Discuss it at length.

• Analyze what you said.

• A better comprehension of your current situation.

• Try to find a way to fix your issue.

• Assist you in making improvements to your behavior.

Sessions in Psychotherapy:

Both youngsters and adults can benefit from therapy, which can be delivered in various settings. Sessions for this number of people are usually held once a week. Active participation from both the patient and the counselor is essential in psychotherapy. To make psychotherapy progress, it is crucial that the patient feel safe and comfortable with their therapist.

Short-term counseling (just a few sessions) focuses on resolving pressing problems, whereas long-term psychotherapy (months or even years) tackles more systemic, ingrained issues. Together, the patient and therapist determine the treatment's desired outcomes and establish the parameters of its duration and frequency of meetings.

Maintaining privacy during psychotherapy sessions is essential. Although patients may feel comfortable discussing sensitive topics, they should never feel pressured to engage in sexual or intimate physical contact with their therapist.

How Effective Is Psychotherapy?

Studies suggest that psychotherapy helps most patients improve their symptoms and return to normal functioning. Most people who try psychotherapy feel better afterward. Positive changes in the brain and body have been related to the therapeutic effects of psychotherapy, which have been found to alleviate negative feelings and actions.

There will be fewer sick days, fewer people with disabilities, fewer health issues, and higher levels of job satisfaction. Brain imaging methods have allowed scientists to see lasting changes in the brain following psychotherapy. Numerous studies have shown that individuals suffering from mental illnesses (such as depression, anxiety, panic disorder, PTSD, OCD therapy, and others) who undertake psychotherapy see measurable changes in brain structure and function.

The effects of psychotherapy on the brain were, in most situations, comparable to those of medicine. To get the most out of psychotherapy, you should treat it like a team effort, communicate openly and honestly, and stick to the treatment plan you and the therapist have devised together. Continue with any suggested in-between-session activities, such as keeping a diary or putting what you've learned into practice.

Therapy comes in many forms, each tailored to the individual's needs and preferences. For example:

Supportive therapy:

Supportive therapy empowers patients to meet their needs byproviding information and emotional support. The benefits are having a higher sense of self-worth, less anxiety, better coping skills, and enhanced social and communal functioning.

Patients with mental health concerns might benefit from supportive psychotherapy to learn to manage the symptoms and difficulties accompanying those diseases.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT):

The goal of the CBT treatment modifies self-destructive habits of behavior and thought. You'll be working on retraining your brain to think more rationally and act more productively.

Psychodynamic therapy:

Psychodynamic therapy is predicated on the premise that individual behavior and mental health are affected by their upbringing and subconscious (unrecognized by themselves) patterns of thinking and emotion.

In therapy, the patient and the therapist work together to raise their self-awareness and facilitate the adoption of healthier behavioral norms, allowing the patient to assume greater responsibility for their life.

Interpersonal therapy (IPT):

This intensive, although brief, program will help you figure out the source of your interpersonal problems. The process enables you to develop the skills necessary for more effective communication and self-expression.

Dialectical behavior therapy:

Emotional stability can be achieved by dialectical behavior therapy, a cognitive behavioral therapy. Individuals with borderline personality disorder, eating problems, and post-traumatic stress disorder often receive this treatment. It aims to equip participants with the tools they need to alter their own disruptive or harmful habits. Therapy is provided on an individual and group basis.

Patient privacy:

Conversations with your therapist are private unless in exceptional cases. If your or another person's safety is in urgent danger, or the therapist is obligated by local, state, or federal regulation to disclose concerns to authorities, privacy may be broken. In case you have privacy concerns, talk to your therapist.

Wrapping It Up:

It's been shown that various forms of psychotherapy may help individuals feel better, deal with life's challenges, and make positive changes to their behaviors and attitudes. Psychotherapists who are well-versed in the field pick and prescribe a method of treatment that is effective in treating their patients' presenting issues.

They modify their practices to match each patient's unique personality and circumstances perfectly. You may not get better or be able to forget about a negative experience altogether with psychotherapy. Nonetheless, it may provide you with the means to deal with adversity and improve your perspective on life.

If you live in NJ and are looking for an excellent mental health NJ therapist, you must visit Dana Colthart Therapy for Anxiety, eating disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD therapy) .

Learn more about OCD!

Different types of OCD

Obsessive-compulsive disorder or OCD is one of the most common mental health-related problems associated with obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. A person diagnosed with OCD may or may not have both the above-mentioned elements.

Usually, OCD takes up a significant chunk of time from the diagnosed person’s routine. Many a time, they aren’t satisfied with the way things are arranged around them, so they have this strong instinct to arrange it in a particular manner.

Similarly, they have difficulty combating the fear of accidentally or intentionally hurting others or abstaining from violent/sexual thoughts. OCD takes form in wide varieties, and it is usually unique to the person’s believes or fears.

6 common types of OCD.

1. Violent or sexual thoughts

People with this type of OCD usually suffer from an aggressive, violent streak of thoughts about harming themselves or those closest to them. Even though these thoughts are totally intrusive and unwanted, the person won’t be able to stop them at will.

The thoughts may also be presented in the form of behaving in a sexually inappropriate way in front of others and embarrassing themselves in front of the ones they respect the most.

2. Exposure to germs and causing contamination

This is one of the most common types of OCD, and the person with this particular type of OCD fears germs the most and is afraid of their possible contamination. Therefore, they constantly wash their hands whenever they touch a surface, wipe the place excessively before sitting down or even totally avoid those places to eliminate the possibility of contamination.

In worst cases, such people may even isolate themselves from others as they fear the germs might get transferred onto them while shaking their hands or having an intimate conversation.

3. Morality and sin

People who have this type of OCD always resort to praying and asking for forgiveness, even if they commit a slight mistake. They are constantly afraid of committing sins or anything evil.

They usually stay away from anything that their brain deems as immoral and always seek forgiveness if they have even the slightest hint that what they committed is wrong.

Such people isolate themselves from the crowds or even keep a distance from the people who, in their terms, seem to have been committing immoral acts or sins.

4. Feeling doubtful and sensation of incompleteness

The person suffering from this type of OCD usually doubts all their actions and wonder if they have done the right thing or not. This leads to self-doubt and, therefore, very low self-esteem. Additionally, they look for validation and often feel incomplete without it.

The doubt can be over trivial things like whether they had switched off the fan or turned off the water heater. Unfortunately, these small doubts keep pestering them, and they only find a bit of peace when they make sure they have done things the right way.

5. Obsessing over symmetry and order

Another common type of OCD is OCD relating to symmetry and order. People with this type of OCD tend to keep everything arranged around them in a particular orderly manner or symmetry. If this doesn’t happen, they constantly think about it, and their revolting thoughts only end when things are put in the way they want them to be.

They also believe in superstitions pertaining to numbers, symmetry, and patterns. So for them, everything that happens in their life should happen according to a certain pattern or order. Such thoughts would give them little to no peace as they constantly worry about the future.

6. Fear of losing self-control

People with OCD usually worry a lot about the consequences of their actions. They are torn between the right and wrong outcomes of an action, so much so that it takes a lot of time to arrive at a decision.

They also worry about losing self-control and doing something they fear the most. People with such thoughts usually isolate themselves from the crowd or avoid situations where they feel they would embarrass themselves in front of a group.

Final Thoughts

People with OCD may have more than one type of the above-mentioned OCDs, and it’s really important that they see a psychotherapist to strong-arm themselves to face the problems. The OCD treatment varies depending on the type they suffer from.

Increases in Anxiety Disorders after Pandemic Observed Worldwide

Increases in Anxiety Disorders after Pandemic Observed Worldwide

Have you felt like you have been experiencing a lot more anxiety since the onset of the pandemic? If the answer is yes, you are certainly not alone. In fact, the World Health Organization has found that there has been a 25% increase in the prevalence of anxiety and depression around the globe since the pandemic. Let’s take a further look at this.

What is an Anxiety Disorder?

Everyone experiences anxiety from time to time. In fact, things like stress and anxiety actually play important roles in human evolution. After all, the “fight or flight” response was designed to help protect us.

However, while some levels of stress and anxiety are perfectly normal, excessive levels can have negative effects for our overall health. When a person experiences unusually high levels of anxiety routinely, they may be dealing with an anxiety disorder. There are many different types of anxiety disorders; however, the most common is generalized anxiety disorder.

Signs of anxiety disorders include the following:

• An impending sense of doom

• Increased heart rates

• A sense of overwhelming panic

• Rapid breathing

• Difficulty controlling worrying

• Wanting to avoid things that cause anxiety

What is Causing an Increase in Anxiety Disorders?

There are many different things that have been contributing to the increase in anxiety disorders after the pandemic. As a therapist in New Jersey, I have observed many of these causes when working with people. The major factor in common is an increase in stress.

This may take a number of forms. For example, people who became isolated during the lockdown often experienced increased levels of stress while simultaneously losing some of their social supports. People experienced stress due to the nature of the virus, particularly those with underlying health concerns or who had loved ones at risk.

Others may be experiencing increased stress coming out of the pandemic. Some may be experiencing stress with transitioning back to the workplace. Others may be nearing exhaustion as working expectations have increased in some areas. The reality is that there are many valid reasons that people may be dealing with enhanced anxiety from the pandemic.

Another major cause has been the disruption of access to mental health supports experienced by many. In many areas, this has led to a gap between the need and services provided while others face stigma in seeking service. This worldwide trend can be seen here as well. The pandemic has resulted in many people seeking anxiety help in New Jersey.

How are Anxiety Disorders Treated?

Those seeking anxiety help in New Jersey will find a number of useful tools at their disposal for the treatment of anxiety disorders. As you likely would expect, treatment is highly individualized based on each person’s needs. However, there are several common treatments.

One of the most helpful treatments is therapy. Psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy can be very useful in helping a person address their anxiety disorder. This typically involves teaching you skills that help address your symptoms, giving you a number of tools at your disposal.

Therapy is very useful in that it empowers you to learn healthy coping mechanisms and responses that can decrease your anxiety response. Typically, 10 to 20 sessions are quite effective in providing some relief from anxiety.

In some situations, people have very high levels of anxiety that may also need medication to help address. While a pharmaceutical approach is not an ideal first step, it is something that some people need, typically accompanied by therapy.

This is something that would be typically prescribed by your physician. In many cases, people are able to take a medication temporarily as they learn to better manage their anxiety through therapy, later leading to them no longer needing the medicine.

What Do I Do If I Am Worried about My Anxiety?

Again, some anxiety is a normal part of life. However, if you notice that your anxiety is frequent or having a negative effect on your life, it is good to speak to a professional about that.

Fortunately, the ability to access therapy has greatly increased, particularly with technology expanding. I provide both in-person and virtual therapy. Additionally, I offer a free 15 minute introductory call in order to answer questions that you may have about the therapy process.

If you are experiencing anxiety and want help, feel free to contact me or your local New Jersey mental health professional today.

If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide or feel as if you are in emotional crisis please call 911 or head to your nearest emergency room.

OCD and General anxiety disorder

How OCD Is Often Misdiagnosed with General Anxiety Disorder

Mental health is a big problem in our society today. It is estimated that 1 in 6 people have a mental illness, but most people don't get treated for it.

OCD is often misdiagnosed as a general anxiety disorder. This is because many of the symptoms of OCD are similar to those of GAD. However, some key differences between the two conditions can help you determine which one you may have. This post will explore the similarities and differences between OCD and GAD and how to get an accurate diagnosis, which should be carried out by a licensed professional.

What is OCD?

OCD is a condition characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions. If these thoughts and behaviors are not managed properly, they can lead to severe depression. To manage them effectively, sufferers must follow certain rituals to prevent obsessive thoughts from taking over their lives. The compulsions can be anything from repeatedly washing hands to excessively checking things.

It is important to note that there are a variety of other disorders that also include obsessive thinking patterns, like:

● Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder

● Body Dysmorphic Disorder

● Avoidant Personality Disorder

● Social Anxiety Disorder

● Generalized Anxiety Disorder

● Schizophrenia

● Bipolar Disorder

● Major Depressive Disorder

● Psychosis

And many more!

However, it is crucial to understand that OCD differs from all other disorders. When obsessive thoughts begin to take over a person's life, they develop what is known as "obsessive thinking." These thoughts are often irrational, leading to the sufferer experiencing obsessions and compulsions.

To properly diagnose OCD, a professional needs to identify whether or not the obsessive thoughts are realistic and whether or not the compulsions are necessary.

What Is General Anxiety Disorder?

General Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive worrying. Many people have anxiety over finances, work, social situations, health or school.

GAD is considered an anxiety disorder not due to a medical condition. However, it can be linked to many things, including physical health issues, medications, environmental factors, and genetics.

If you have GAD, you might experience the following:

● Anxiety

● Irritability

● Fatigue

● Nervousness

● Trouble concentrating

● Fidgeting or being restless

● Feeling worried or on edge.

● Sweating

● Muscle tension

● Being easily upset or irritable

● Loss of interest in hobbies

● Not wanting to do certain activities.

● Difficulty falling or staying asleep.

● Feeling like you are in a fog all day long.

What Are the Differences Between OCD and General Anxiety Disorder?

1. Behavior

Compulsions are the main behavioral distinction between OCD and GAD. When faced with anxiety, those who suffer from OCD may resort to obsessive rituals, but those who suffer from GAD may not. 

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by the practice of compulsions, which are systematic activities performed by a person to alleviate the anxiety generated by an obsession. These compulsions develop from the false assumption that engaging in the action would prevent some undesirable consequence.

 For example, some people take extreme measures to avoid spreading germs, such as frequent and repetitive washing. 

People with GAD may worry excessively and look for confirmation from others. Though they may experience anxiety, they normally do not turn to repetitive or obsessive actions to alleviate it.

2. Thoughts

The distinctive patterns of thinking associated with GAD also set it apart from OCD. The main difference is deciding whether these mental processes constitute concern or obsession.

3. Worry

Those who suffer from GAD are more likely to fret about legitimate issues. However, even if these are valid concerns, your level of worry is extreme.

Trivial, everyday worries, like making a job report or not knowing what one's timetable would be like, may add up to a significant amount of anxiety, just as easily as worries about significant life difficulties like health, money, or relationships. 

The type of chronic anxiety that satisfies the criteria for a diagnosis of GAD is constant and beyond power; it often involves catastrophizing or anticipating probably the most disgusting possible consequence and may also entail other behavioral patterns.

4. Obsessions

Compared to generalized anxiety disorder, however, the extent of these impulses goes much beyond the typical troubles of daily life. The inability to regulate one's obsessive thoughts is a characteristic of obsessive-compulsive disorder. 

For instance, a person with OCD could think that to pass a test, they must organize the things on their workstation in perfect alignment and count them repeatedly. Another example is a parent who has OCD and thinks they need to speak a particular statement over and over to protect their kids.

What Makes OCD and GAD Treatment Different

CBT is effective for OCD and GAD. However, the methods employed to treat the former may be somewhat different. That's the case, for instance:

Neurocognitive Retraining

Cognitive restructuring is a method that may help persons with GAD; it entails recognizing anxious thoughts, reevaluating them, and shifting one's viewpoint.

Preventing Exposure and Reactions

The most effective treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a subset of cognitive behavioral therapy known as exposure and response prevention. Using principles from exposure treatment, this method progressively introduces the person with OCD to the stimuli that often elicit an anxious reaction. As a result, the emotional reaction to terror diminishes over time.

How Harmful Is It to Misdiagnose OCD with GAD?

If you are misdiagnosed with OCD when you really have GAD, you might not get the help you need. The wrong treatment for your condition could worsen your symptoms or make them worse and vice versa. Also, if you are misdiagnosed with GAD, you might not be treated, and the condition could continue to be severe.

How It's Important to Get the Right Diagnosis If You Have OCD?

It's imperative to get an accurate diagnosis for any mental health condition. A misdiagnosis could cause you to go through unnecessary stress and pain. There are two main ways to get an accurate diagnosis: (i) seeing a mental health professional such as an OCD therapist in NJ and (ii) getting yourself to the right place at the right time.

Get Your OCD Treated With Therapy at Dana

If you are based in New Jersey, you should get to the right place, like Therapy at Dana. A new jersey therapist trained to deal with OCD can help you get the treatment you need to overcome this problem.

What exactly is a panic attack?

Many of my clients ask what a panic attack is. A panic attack is sudden and intense fear. It’s unexpected, usually. Your heart rate increases, you may feel like your doing or you’re going crazy.

Panic attacks are horrible. Fortunately, therapy can treat them. Often when people experience panic attacks they do not know what they are. A big part of therapy is teaching people about panic attack symptoms:

• pounding or racing heart

• sweating

• chills

• trembling

• chest pain

• difficulty breathing

• weakness or dizziness

• tingly or numb hands

• stomach pain or nausea

These are some comment symptoms that many people suffer from. Anxiety and panic disorders are one of the most common mental health issues in the United States. As a therapist in New Jersey, I often treat people with panic attacks. As in my earlier posts, I’ve discussed how busy and overstimulating NJ can be. This is a breading ground for anxiety and panic attacks. Many New Jersey residents are overworked, stressed and exhausted from trying to keep up in the area. This can leave people open to be vulnerable with panic attacks. Seeing a therapist that knows how to treat panic attacks is a great place to start and heal.

How does therapy help with self-esteem?

Many of those going to therapy suffer from low self-esteem. Sometimes we may not even realize our self-esteem is low until we are sitting across from someone and we are asked, “how do you feel about yourself”.

Many people struggle with negative self-talk. In therapy you learn how to identify these negative thought patterns and replace them with more compassionate and loving self-talk.

In therapy, you can also explore your strengths and learn to practice self-compassion. Building a trusting relationship with a therapist is a crucial part of this journey. They will work as your personal cheerleader to help you identify barriers to self-esteem issues and replace the negativities with love and acceptance of yourself.

Self-esteem and how we feel about ourself is such an important part of our mental health. Without good self-esteem we can often suffer from anxiety, depression, relationship issues and eating disorders. Increasing your self- esteem can be one of the most rewarding activities you can partake in! I highly suggest working with a therapist to increase your self-love. It is the best investment you’ll ever make.

Imposter Syndrome, what is it?

You may, or may not have heard the recent buzz phrase, “Imposter Syndrome”. Essentially, this is when people doubt their ability to be able to do a job or social position. Perhaps they feel they are not educated enough for a job or don’t have enough job experience.

As a therapist in New Jersey, I see this as a very common theme for both men and women. I also see it outside of work and in areas such as family. Imposter syndrome tends to happen to over achievers, although this doesn’t have to be the case. It also seems to be more popular with people that are starting new jobs or first time parents.

So how do I overcome imposter syndrome? First off, I would start by getting a qualified therapist to help you through the process. New York and New Jersey are very competitive areas and its easy to fall victim of imposter syndrome. Finding a therapist in New Jersey can be hard, but, luckily there is so many therapists offering teletherapy now. This is step one!

Step two would be to recognize your expertise. Focus on your specialties and strong points. Do not focus on the things you do not know, that will come in time and with experience. Find a mentor and talk to someone that will lift you up. Be open to those around you at work or at home how you are feeling. Get support! This is key.

Again, my best advice is work through this with a therapist. Find one online. Teletherapy is amazing and very easy to access. Therapy can help boost your self-esteem and confidence. The key is to not keep these concerns and worries inside, talk to someone, and vocalize your worries!

What are the differences between CBT and DBT therapy?

CBT and DBT are amazing treatments for anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, body dysmorphia, self-esteem issues, and PTSD. CBT and DBT have some similarities and differences. CBT, or cognitive behavioral therapy, is used to help you identify negative thought patterns and teaches you how to constructively change them. DBT, or dialectal behavior therapy, is a form of CBT that helps people control extreme reactions. With DBT there is a component of mindfulness, acceptance and interpersonal skills. CBT is great for those with depression, it is extremely helpful. CBT is also used for those with OCD and anxiety. DBT is used with those that are dealing with BPD (borderline personality disorder) or struggling to change a extreme unhealthy behavior such as self-harm. I hope this helps clear up the differences. I use both these treatment modalities often with my clients. They are both amazing and helpful forms of therapy.

How to find a therapist in NJ..

Finding a therapist can be tough. People ask me all the time, “Dana, how do I find a therapist?!”. I always recommend that people know and understand different treatment styles. Therapists are trained in many different ways and get drawn to different treatment modalities and styles. For example, anxiety disorders can be treated with CBT, DBT, ACT, narrative therapy, just to name a few! I would google a bit about each treatment, or even call and ask some therapists about their styles and treatment approach. Most therapists in New Jersey offer free consultation calls, take them up on them! Make a list of 3-4 therapists that you think would be good to work with. Bergen county, Ocean County, Monmouth county, you can google the therapists in those areas and make some phone calls! Ask as many questions as you can; Whats their experience? How do they handle different issues? How do they track progress? What results has their past clients had? Do they work with any other professionals in the area? (Dietitians, psychiatrists, doctors, school personal, group counselors etc.). The great thing now, is that many therapists offer teletherapy! So now you can see your therapist from the comfort of your home. Perhaps you live in Camden County or Passaic County and you’re looking for a therapist that specializes in OCD and the closest in New Jersey is a 2 hour drive. Teletherapy is great for this, it can connect you to therapists and mental health providers all over the state.