Mental health is an important part of your overall well-being. It affects how you think, feel, and act and it plays a big role in how you handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health services are designed to help with emotional challenges, behavioral issues, and substance use problems, so you can live a healthier, more balanced life.

Many people, possibly even your close friends or family, struggle with anxiety, stress, depression, or feelings of isolation. These are common issues, and you’re not alone if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed. The good news is that help is available.

There are many mental and behavioral health care resources to support your emotional health. Whether you need therapy, medication, or simply someone to talk to, the right treatment can make a big difference in how you feel and function each day. If you need immediate help, consider calling a support or crisis intervention line to connect with someone who can assist you.
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Programs like those offered through United Healthcare provide a wide range of mental health benefits to support your journey. From finding a provider to connecting with therapy or crisis services, these resources are here to help you take the first step toward feeling better.

Behavioral health focuses on the connection between your behaviors, emotions, and overall mental well-being. It includes care for mental health concerns like anxiety and depression, as well as treatment for substance use disorders. These programs are designed to help you better understand your thoughts, manage your emotions, and develop healthier habits.

If you're struggling with stress, anxiety, or other emotional challenges, behavioral health services can provide the support you need. These services go beyond just talking about your problems. They offer real tools and strategies to help you feel more in control and improve your quality of life.
UnitedHealthcare’s behavioral health program gives members access to a network of trained professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. Whether you need in-person sessions, virtual visits, or specialized treatment, there are flexible options to meet your needs.
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Taking care of your behavioral health is just as important as caring for your physical health. With the right support, you can work through challenges, build emotional strength, and live a healthier, more fulfilling life.

If you're thinking about getting help for your mental health, it's important to understand how your health insurance can support you. Many health insurance plans, including UnitedHealthcare, offer coverage for mental health and behavioral health services.

The exact coverage you have depends on your specific health plan and your eligibility as a member. Some plans may cover therapy, medication, and even virtual mental health visits. To find out what your plan includes, you can sign in to your UnitedHealthcare member account online or call the number on your member ID card for more details.
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UnitedHealthcare’s plans are designed to make it easier to connect with the care you need. This includes access to licensed mental health providers, treatment programs, and support services.
Knowing what your plan covers can help you feel more confident about getting care. If you’re not sure where to start, your insurance provider can help guide you to the right resources so you can take the next step toward feeling better.

Accessing behavioral health and mental health services is a vital step toward improving your overall well-being, and UnitedHealthcare is committed to making this process as simple and supportive as possible. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself, a loved one, or your family, there are multiple ways to connect with the care you need.

UnitedHealthcare members can easily find mental health providers and access treatment through both virtual visits and in-person appointments. The UnitedHealthcare app is a convenient tool that allows you to find a provider in your network, check your health benefits, and get started with treatment—all from your phone or device. If you’re new to the process, simply sign in to your member account or call the phone number on your member ID card to connect with a representative who can guide you through your options.

For those without insurance, Mynd Psychiatry has a cash rate. This ensures that even if you don’t have traditional health insurance, you can still access high-quality mental health services and support.

The UnitedHealthcare community plan is designed to support individuals and families, including children and infants, who may need help with mental health concerns or substance use issues. In Texas, members can take advantage of Medicaid and CHIP programs, which offer a wide range of health benefits and resources tailored to the needs of the community.

In case of a life-threatening emergency, always call 911 or visit the nearest emergency services department. For non-life-threatening issues, you can use the UnitedHealthcare app to find a provider, chat with a representative, or call the number on your ID card (TTY 711 is available for those with hearing or speech disabilities). These resources are available to help you connect with the right provider and get the support you need, when you need it.

No matter your situation, UnitedHealthcare is here to help you take the next step toward better mental health. With a variety of programs, providers, and support options, you can find the care that’s right for you and your family—so you never have to face mental health challenges alone.
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When it comes to mental health care, choosing the right provider is one of the most important steps you can take. The right provider is someone who listens to you, respects your concerns, and helps you feel safe and supported. Feeling comfortable with your provider can make a big difference in how effective your treatment is.

UnitedHealthcare makes it easier to find the right fit. You can use their provider search tool to look for mental health or behavioral health professionals in your area who are part of the UnitedHealthcare network. If you are in the Houston, TX area, look no further.  You can scheduled online now.  You can also use online platforms or mobile apps to quickly find network providers, helping you maximize your benefits and streamline the process. This includes psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and other specialists. If you are looking for a psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse practitioner, or counselor in the Houston area, give us a call at 346-202-7570.
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The United Healthcare network includes a wide range of providers with different backgrounds, specialties, and treatment approaches so you can find someone who meets your specific needs and preferences.

Finding the right provider is a powerful first step toward getting the care you deserve. It’s all about building a relationship that supports your mental health journey and helps you move toward a healthier, more balanced life.

If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis, it’s important to get help right away. In life-threatening situations, always call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for immediate assistance.

UnitedHealthcare’s emergency services are available 24/7 to support your mental health needs. If you or a loved one is facing serious symptoms, such as suicidal thoughts, extreme panic, or unsafe behaviors, don’t wait. Getting help quickly can save lives and start the path to healing.

UnitedHealthcare provides access to emergency mental health providers and treatment options to ensure you get the care and support you need during urgent situations. Whether it’s a phone call, an emergency appointment, or hospital-based care, there are professionals ready to help.
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Having access to mental health support during emergencies is a vital part of staying safe and protected. You don’t have to face a crisis alone. Help is always available.

Knowing how to access emergency services can make a big difference when you or someone you love is in crisis. If you're a United Healthcare member, you can call the number on your member ID card or visit the United Healthcare website to get help and guidance right away.

In a life-threatening situation, always call 911 or go directly to the nearest emergency room. Your safety comes first, and immediate medical care is often the most important step.

United Healthcare’s emergency services are available 24/7 and include access to mental health providers and support for urgent needs. These services are designed to help you get stabilized and connect with the right care as quickly as possible.
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Reaching out in an emergency isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength. Having the right information and taking action can help save lives and start the road to recovery.

Finding the right mental health provider is a key step in getting the care you need—and UnitedHealthcare makes it easy. With the UnitedHealthcare app, you can quickly search for mental health providers who are in your network and accept your insurance. Virtual therapy services are also available and can be provided by Teladoc Health, offering convenient access to care. The app gives you access to your benefits, coverage details, and provider information right from your mobile device.

You can also use the online provider search tool on the UnitedHealthcare website to explore your options. This tool lets you filter by location, specialty, and provider type, making it easier to find someone who meets your needs.

Choosing the right provider is important for your comfort and long-term success in treatment. Whether you’re looking for a psychiatrist, therapist, or counselor, UnitedHealthcare’s tools help you connect with someone who’s a good fit and who’s covered by your plan.
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With the right provider, you can take the first step toward better mental health with confidence and support.

To get the most out of your mental health care, it’s important to understand your health insurance coverage. Knowing what services are available through your plan helps you take full advantage of the support that’s already in place for your well-being.

UnitedHealthcare’s health insurance plans include a wide range of mental health benefits, such as access to therapists, psychiatrists, treatment programs, and virtual care options. By signing in to your UnitedHealthcare member account, you can review your plan details, check what’s covered, and explore the mental health services available to you.

When you’re informed about your benefits, you can make smarter choices about your care and avoid unexpected costs. UnitedHealthcare’s program is designed to help you make the most of your health coverage, so you can focus on feeling better, not just managing logistics.
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Maximizing your health benefits is a key part of accessing effective mental health treatment. The more you know, the easier it becomes to find the right provider, start care, and improve your overall quality of life.

Taking care of your mental health is one of the most important things you can do for your overall well-being. If you’re ready to take that step, finding a qualified psychiatrist or mental health provider who accepts UnitedHealthcare is a great place to start.  Mynd Psychiatry accepts most United Healthcare, Oscar, and Optum health plans.  

UnitedHealthcare’s mental health services are built to support you every step of the way, offering access to trusted providers, a variety of treatment options, and the tools you need to feel your best.
To get started, sign in to your member account online or call the number on your UnitedHealthcare ID card. From there, you can review your benefits, explore provider options, and take action toward better mental health.

Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, or other challenges, help is available and you don’t have to face it alone. Taking the next step could be the start of a healthier, more hopeful chapter in your life.  If you are in the Houston or surrounding area, schedule with us now.

​Michael (anonymized) didn’t look like someone who was struggling. On the outside, he had a solid job, a nice home in the suburbs, and a friendly manner that made him easy to talk to. But when he sat down in my office, the truth came out:

“I don’t feel anything anymore,” he said. “I laugh at work and smile with my wife, but inside, it’s like I’m disappearing.”

This is depression—and it’s more common than most people realize.

As a counselor in Houston, I see men like Michael every week. They come in not because life is falling apart, but because it feels flat, heavy, or meaningless. They’re functioning on the surface, but they’re exhausted underneath. They’ve searched for “depression counselors near me” hoping to find answers—and they’re often surprised by how much counseling can help.

What Depression Really Looks Like
Depression doesn’t always show up as constant crying or dramatic sadness. In fact, for many men, it looks like:

• Numbness or emotional disconnection
• Irritability or anger over small things
• Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
• Avoidance of hobbies or social time
• Trouble concentrating or making decisions
• Thoughts like, “What’s the point?” or “I’m a burden”

In Houston, we have a fast-paced lifestyle and a “keep moving” mentality that makes it easy to ignore these symptoms. But untreated depression doesn’t just go away. It can affect relationships, work performance, physical health, and even your sense of identity.

That’s where counseling comes in—not to label or judge, but to help you understand what’s happening, and how to climb out of it.

Michael’s Turning Point
Michael admitted he almost canceled his first session. He didn’t think talking would help. “What’s a counselor going to tell me that I don’t already know?” he asked. But the truth was, he’d never really talked about his feelings before—at least not in a way that felt safe and structured.

During our sessions, we uncovered years of perfectionism, internalized pressure to “be the strong one,” and unresolved grief from losing his father five years earlier. These weren’t just emotional footnotes—they were anchors pulling him down.

With weekly counseling, Michael began to recognize the patterns in his thinking and behaviors. He learned how to challenge negative thoughts, set boundaries with his time and energy, and reconnect with small daily joys. Within three months, his mood had improved. Within six, he felt like himself again.

And it wasn’t magic—it was workable change backed by evidence-based therapy and a supportive environment.

The Power of Counseling for Depression
Counseling offers more than just a space to vent. For depression, it can provide:

• Clarity: Understanding what’s fueling your symptoms and where to start.
• Validation: Realizing you’re not weak, broken, or alone.
• Skills: Learning how to regulate thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
• Hope: Seeing progress—even if it’s gradual—toward feeling better.

In my Houston practice, I often use approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and solution-focused techniques to help patients see both the roots of their depression and the tools for change.

And yes—counseling works. Numerous studies show that therapy is as effective as medication for mild to moderate depression, and often even more powerful when combined with it.

What to Expect from Counseling
The first step is a conversation. We’ll talk about what you’re experiencing, what’s worked or not worked before, and what your goals are. There’s no pressure to have all the answers or even to describe your feelings perfectly—just show up.

We move at your pace. Some people come weekly; others need biweekly or monthly support. Some want to dive into the deeper roots of their depression, while others are focused on immediate relief. Counseling is customized to you.

And unlike advice from friends or tips from the internet, a professional counselor gives you focused, objective, and clinically grounded guidance.

As a Houston counselor, I’ve worked with clients from all walks of life: engineers, artists, healthcare workers, stay-at-home dads, and retirees. Depression doesn’t discriminate, and neither does healing.

You're Not Alone—Even If It Feels That WayOne of the cruelest tricks of depression is the lie that no one would understand. That you’re “too much,” “not enough,” or “just lazy.” These thoughts aren’t truths—they’re symptoms.

If you’re reading this and thinking, Maybe I need help, then trust that instinct. It takes courage to ask for support, but it also takes strength to carry what you’ve been carrying alone.  Whether you’re in central Houston, the suburbs, or nearby neighborhoods, accessible care is available—and it can change your life.

The First Step Starts Here
Michael’s story isn’t rare, and it doesn’t have to be yours forever. Depression is treatable. Counseling is a powerful step. And life--real, meaningful, energized life—is still possible.

If you’ve been searching for “depression counselors near me” and landed here, this might be your moment.  We’re here in Houston, ready to listen, support, and guide you forward—without judgment and with a clear plan for progress.

Request your appointment online today.

​She stood in my office—calm, composed, successful. A full-time professional, mother of three, and community volunteer. On the outside, she had it all together. But her voice trembled when she said, “I feel like I’m failing, and no one sees it.”

As a psychiatrist serving women in Houston, I hear this story more often than you might think. May is Women’s Mental Health Month, and it’s not just a time to raise awareness—it’s a time to give women permission to put themselves on their own priority list.

This article is for you. The women doing everything for everyone else but rarely pausing to ask: How am I, really?

The Invisible Weight Women Carry
Women are twice as likely as men to experience anxiety and depression. They’re more vulnerable to eating disorders, postpartum depression, and trauma-related conditions. And yet, so many minimize their symptoms—telling themselves they should be grateful, that it’s “just stress,” or that they’ll feel better when life slows down.

In reality, many women are carrying emotional loads that go unspoken:

• Trying to meet impossible standards of parenting or appearance.
• Managing households, careers, and caregiving roles simultaneously.
• Navigating relationship stress while ignoring their own needs.
• Battling hormonal shifts that influence mood, energy, and sleep.

In Houston, we serve a diverse population of women—entrepreneurs, teachers, engineers, healthcare workers, mothers—and the common thread is this: most of them have been taught to endure before they’ve been taught to heal.

A Patient’s Story: Resilience and RecoveryLet me tell you about Alejandra (anonymized), a 36-year-old teacher in Houston. She came to my office after years of battling what she described as “high-functioning anxiety.” No one saw her panic attacks, her sleepless nights, or her obsessive over-preparing. She simply “powered through.”

But Alejandra hit a wall after her second child was born. The anxiety escalated, and depression followed. She cried at stoplights. She lost interest in things she used to love. She said, “I’m scared to tell anyone because they’ll think I’m weak.”

What Alejandra needed wasn’t judgment—it was a treatment plan. We created one together, and within weeks, she began to feel lighter, more in control, more her. Therapy, support, and sometimes medication can be life-changing tools—not signs of failure, but proof of courage.

Mental Health Is Physical Health

It’s not “just in your head.” Mental health is intimately connected to your physical well-being.

• Chronic stress can trigger headaches, gastrointestinal issues, and high blood pressure.
• Depression and anxiety can disrupt sleep, eating habits, and immune function.
• Hormonal fluctuations—during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause—can amplify emotional distress.

​In our Houston clinic, we take a whole-person approach. That means understanding not only what you're feeling, but how your lifestyle, hormones, history, and environment are contributing to it.

This is not a one-size-fits-all process. What works for one woman may not work for another. That's why we personalize care and build strategies that match your values, goals, and biology.

Direct, Strategic, Results-Driven
Let’s be clear: this is not just about venting. It’s about results.

As a psychiatrist, I believe in direct communication, strategic problem-solving, and taking action. You don’t have time to waste. If your mental health is affecting your relationships, work, or self-worth, you need a plan—and a partner in that plan.

In Houston, our clinic delivers results-focused mental health care tailored specifically to women. That means:

• Structured assessments to get clarity on your symptoms.
• Evidence-based treatments, including therapy and medication when appropriate.
• Lifestyle interventions to improve energy, sleep, and stress regulation.
• Accountability and check-ins to make sure you’re actually improving—not just “getting by.”

You can’t solve what you won’t face. But once you face it, we’ll build a strategy to move forward—efficiently, confidently, and with purpose.

Let This Month Be Your Turning Point
May is Women’s Mental Health Month. That’s not just a box on the calendar—it’s an invitation to check in with yourself.

• Are you constantly overwhelmed?
• Are you emotionally exhausted?
• Are you functioning on the outside but silently struggling inside?

You’re not alone. You’re not weak. And you don't need to be stuck.

As Your Houston Psychiatrist, I encourage every woman reading this to stop normalizing burnout and start prioritizing well-being. Your mental health deserves the same attention as your physical health, your career, and your family.

There is strength in asking for help. There is clarity in getting a diagnosis. There is hope in creating a plan. And there is power in taking the first step.

In our Houston practice, we’ve helped hundreds of women just like you regain their sense of control, peace, and confidence. You don’t have to suffer in silence, and you don’t have to figure this out alone.

Let this May be the month you reclaim your mental health.

Request your appointment online today.

​Addiction psychiatrists play a pivotal role in the healthcare system, addressing the complex interplay of mental health disorders and substance misuse. In a world where addiction continues to be a pressing issue, addiction psychiatrists are on the front lines, offering specialized care to individuals struggling with substance use disorders. This comprehensive exploration delves into the multifaceted responsibilities of addiction psychiatrists, highlighting their expertise in diagnosing, treating, and preventing addiction while emphasizing the significance of their compassionate approach and the impact they make on individuals, families, and communities.

I. Definition and Scope of Addiction Psychiatry
Addiction psychiatry is a subspecialty within the field of psychiatry that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of substance use disorders. Addiction psychiatrists are medical doctors who have completed specialized training to understand the complexities of addiction, including its physiological, psychological, and social aspects. Their expertise extends beyond merely managing the symptoms of addiction; they delve deep into the root causes and provide comprehensive, evidence-based treatments tailored to individual needs.

II. Diagnosing Substance Use Disorders
One of the fundamental responsibilities of addiction psychiatrists is to accurately diagnose substance use disorders. Through thorough assessments, which may include interviews, psychological evaluations, and laboratory tests, they identify the specific substance(s) involved and assess the severity of the addiction. Utilizing established criteria from diagnostic manuals such as the DSM-5, addiction psychiatrists ensure precise diagnosis, enabling them to formulate effective treatment plans.

III. Creating Individualized Treatment Plans
Once a diagnosis is established, addiction psychiatrists develop individualized treatment plans that cater to the unique needs of each patient. These plans often encompass a combination of pharmacological interventions, psychotherapy, and behavioral therapies. Pharmacotherapy, including medications like antabuse, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, helps manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms, promoting successful recovery. Additionally, addiction psychiatrists work with counselors to employ evidence-based psychotherapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational enhancement therapy (MET) to address the psychological aspects of addiction and assist patients in developing coping strategies.

IV. Addressing Co-occurring Mental Health Disorders
Substance use disorders frequently co-occur with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders. Addiction psychiatrists are adept at recognizing these dual diagnoses and implementing integrated treatments that simultaneously address both addiction and mental health issues. By providing comprehensive care, they improve the overall well-being of their patients, addressing the interconnected nature of addiction and mental health.

V. Preventing Relapse and Promoting Long-Term Recovery
Preventing relapse is a critical aspect of addiction psychiatry. Addiction psychiatrists work closely with patients to identify triggers, develop relapse prevention strategies, and foster a supportive environment conducive to recovery. Through ongoing therapy sessions, support groups, and family involvement, they empower individuals to maintain their sobriety, equipping them with the skills and resilience needed to navigate life's challenges without resorting to substance use.

VI. Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Teams
Addiction psychiatrists collaborate extensively with other healthcare professionals including psychologists and addiction counselors. This multidisciplinary approach ensures holistic care, addressing not only the medical and psychological aspects of addiction but also the social and environmental factors that contribute to substance abuse. By working as part of a team, addiction psychiatrists enhance the overall effectiveness of treatment interventions, leading to improved outcomes for their patients.

Conclusion
The role of an addiction psychiatrist is multifaceted, encompassing diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and advocacy. Their dedication to understanding the intricate relationship between mental health and substance use disorders enables them to provide comprehensive, compassionate care to individuals facing addiction. By addressing the biological, psychological, and social dimensions of addiction, addiction psychiatrists contribute significantly to the well-being of their patients, fostering hope and promoting lasting recovery. Through their expertise, empathy, and unwavering commitment, addiction psychiatrists make a profound impact on the lives of individuals, families, and communities, ultimately shaping a healthier, more resilient society.  If you need an addiction psychiatrist in the Houston area, give us a call at 346-202-7570.

​Image Rehearsal Therapy (IRT) is a treatment approach for individuals who experience recurrent nightmares. This therapy technique was first introduced by Barry Krakow, MD, and colleagues in the late 1990s. The goal of IRT is to reduce the frequency and intensity of nightmares by helping individuals to rewrite the script of their nightmares through the use of mental imagery and visualization.

IRT involves several stages, including education about nightmares and the IRT process, identifying the content and themes of the nightmares, and creating alternative endings to the nightmares. The therapy may be conducted individually or in a group setting, and typically lasts for 8 to 12 sessions.

During the initial phase of IRT, the therapist educates the individual about the nature of nightmares and their impact on sleep quality and overall functioning. The therapist also explains the IRT process and how it can help to reduce the frequency and intensity of nightmares.

Next, the individual is asked to keep a dream diary or a nightmare log. This allows them to track the frequency and content of their nightmares. The therapist will use this information to help the individual identify the themes and content of their nightmares.

In the next phase of IRT, the individual is asked to choose one nightmare that they would like to work on. The therapist will help the individual to create a detailed description of the nightmare, including the sensory details and emotions that are associated with it.

Once the nightmare has been identified and described, the individual is asked to create a new ending to the nightmare. This is done through the use of mental imagery and visualization. The individual is asked to imagine a different outcome to the nightmare, one that is more positive and less frightening.

The new ending should be detailed and specific, and should include sensory details and emotions. The individual should practice visualizing the new ending to the nightmare several times a day, preferably before going to bed.

Finally, the individual is asked to rehearse the new ending to the nightmare in their mind just before going to sleep. This is done to reinforce the new ending and to help the individual feel more confident and in control.

Research studies have shown that IRT can be an effective treatment approach for individuals with recurrent nightmares. One study found that IRT was more effective than other therapies, such as Imagery Rehearsal Therapy without the cognitive component or Relaxation Therapy. Additionally, a meta-analysis found that IRT was effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of nightmares in both children and adults.

IRT is a non-invasive and relatively simple therapy technique that can be effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of nightmares. However, it is important to note that IRT may not be appropriate for everyone. Individuals with severe mental health issues or a history of trauma may require more intensive therapy approaches.
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In conclusion, Image Rehearsal Therapy is a treatment approach for individuals who experience recurrent nightmares. The therapy involves education about nightmares and the IRT process, identifying the content and themes of the nightmares, and creating alternative endings to the nightmares through the use of mental imagery and visualization. IRT is a non-invasive and relatively simple therapy technique that can be effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of nightmares. However, it may not be appropriate for everyone, and individuals with severe mental health issues or a history of trauma may require more intensive therapy approaches. If you are experiencing recurrent nightmares, it is important to seek professional help to determine the best treatment approach for you.

​It has been found that there is a strong correlation between the power of positivity and its effect on exercise. The way you think during your exercise can impact the workout and your overall health. Positivity can boost your self-awareness and assessment of your progress during exercise. Through positivity, one may be able to achieve one's fitness goals, and increase one's overall happiness. Positivity during exercise can also improve self-esteem for individuals struggling with body image and confidence. There are many techniques one can implement into their exercise routine to improve positivity and exercise outcomes.

A way to bring positivity to your exercise is to take a moment of mindfulness before beginning the workout. During this moment, try to tune out the negative comparisons or harsh thoughts you commonly have while exercising. Bring your attention to your fitness goals and your motivation for achieving these goals. Instead of comparing your exercise routine or body image to those around you, focus on using positive self-talk to improve your fitness accomplishments. Establishing on-going positive self-talk can be done through making encouraging, positive statements towards yourself throughout the exercise routine. For example, if you are lifting a heavier weight than usual; say to yourself "I am strong and powerful". Consistent positive self-talk can convince your body and mind that you can complete a difficult workout, increase your endurance or even lift heavier weights. Staying positive can be difficult, yet through using self-talk you are able to encourage yourself while staying motivated.  

Another way to bring positivity to your exercise is through challenging your negative thoughts experienced during the workout. When experiencing negative thoughts, ask yourself why you are feeling this way. By self-reflecting on these thoughts and identifying the root cause of them you are giving yourself an opportunity to change them into positive thoughts. Negative thoughts can be changed into positive thoughts through using positive self-talk and taking a moment of mindfulness. By changing negative thoughts into positive thoughts while exercising, you are able to turn around the exercise to benefit your overall health and mood.

Visualization strategies can also be helpful.  Hone your thoughts and eyesight directly on the weights and visualize your success.  Focus your breathing in tune with exerting force.  See the success before it happens.  While this may be a more advanced skill, it can be quite helpful.

If you are consistently struggling with positivity, gaining the support of a mental health therapist can be helpful. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can help individuals shift their thoughts from negative to positive while focusing on developing coping mechanisms to decrease stress. A therapist can also help you get to the root cause of the negative thoughts, while providing support and guidance to heal. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has benefits of increasing self-esteem and developing rational thought patterns to improve positivity. Shifting your thoughts and using positivity while exercising can improve fitness outcomes as well as mood and overall happiness. 

​The impact COVID-19 had on socialization is immeasurable.  As a society we experienced a lost sense of community due to being unable to effectively socialize. Health guidelines including social distancing and quarantining prevented the spread of COVID-19, yet took an emotional toll on many individuals. Being isolated from friends, family, and everyday routine is extremely difficult for humans. Socialization is a basic human need that helps ward off feelings of loneliness, sharpens cognitive skills, and increases one's sense of happiness and well-being. Although COVID-19 is still around, restrictions have lifted to effectively socialize with others and continue on with our daily routines. For some, this is an exciting time but for others this can prompt social anxiety and worry about health and safety. Improving one's comfort with socialization post COVID-19 is important to increase overall wellbeing. 

      One way to increase your comfort level with socialization post COVID-19 is to practice your social skills. This can be done through continuing daily conversations with those you feel comfortable with. Make an effort to practice your listening skills by asking open-ended questions and paying attention to what is said while being friendly. If you feel awkward during these conversations, know that this is a normal feeling experienced by many. Something to keep in mind is your social limits.  These may have changed since before COVID-19. If at one point you were able to socialize for 4 hours and are now drained after an hour, reflect on this and try to find plans that fit your social limits. Avoid taking on too many social tasks all at once since your ability to manage social events has been reduced. Practicing self-care through journaling, exercising, or watching a relaxing television show is recommended to decrease stress after socialization. 

      Another way to increase your comfort level with socialization post COVID-19 is to address any safety concerns you may have surrounding social interactions. Although having these conversations can be awkward, it is important to have conversations to ensure everyone is on the same page. It is better to understand what will go on at the event than to arrive and be surprised that others are handling things differently than you. Keep in mind that it is acceptable to make suggestions or negotiate plans when you do not feel comfortable or safe. Doing so will allow others to know your concerns and provide support to minimize them. 

      If you are avoiding socialization and experiencing anxiety that is impacting your daily routine, it is time to seek the help of a mental health professional. With the help of a therapist, one can identify the root cause of the anxiety and develop coping strategies for when you are in difficult situations. Re-entering the world of socialization can create feelings of panic or anxiety.  You are not alone. 

​Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, often known as CBT, is a form of psychotherapy that explores the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is used to treat a variety of mental health disorders and aims to decrease stress by helping individuals identify problematic thought patterns and subsequently develop positive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. CBT helps individuals learn to change their perception, mood, and behaviors while viewing challenging situations in a new way. During the psychotherapy process, the counselor and client work together to create treatment goals and desired outcomes with a focus of gaining control of the client's thoughts. 

How Can Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Help? 
      Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps individuals learn to recognize their distorted thinking patterns that often create dysfunction in their daily lives. Once these thought patterns are identified, the counselor helps the client reevaluate the thoughts in light of reality while gaining an understanding of behaviors with the goal to develop problem-solving skills. Development of problem-solving skills and coping mechanisms are essential in the healing process as this will allow the client to deal with difficult situations while taking care of their emotional wellbeing. New habits can relieve mental health symptoms and allows the client to think and act in a more beneficial way. 

Who Would Benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy? 
      Everyone can benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, including individuals with a desire to identify, articulate, and change thoughts in the workplace. Even those that aren't experiencing a mental health disorder can find ways to improve their life with CBT.  Some clients in sales will utilize it to help with sales techniques. 

CBT involves techniques of getting frequent feedback, learning ways to calm the mind, and practices skills learned in therapy to promote positive behavioral change and growth. Through challenging underlying assumptions and distinguishing between facts and unhelpful thoughts, you can engage in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to improve your mental health today.