We at Pacifica Counseling want to shine a light on our clients, as we want to celebrate you, and all the hard work you are implementing in and out of our services.
Since 1949, May has continued to be a proclamation of Mental Health Awareness. In hopes of bringing light to the health and wellness of MILLIONS of Americans, I wanted to share the importance of prioritizing your mental health. In addition, I have added a few links to organizations that are additional advocates for the Mental Health Movement.
It is important to talk about mental health due to the stigma that tarnishes the significance of awareness. I frequently tell my clients that we do not shame others for going to the dentist or the doctor when patients need a checkup. So, why are we shaming those who need a mental health check in? Talking openly about mental health continues to break down the barriers of talking about the “things” out loud. When family, friends, and peers educate themselves on mental health, this creates a promising future AND more safe places for people to feel seen and heard.
I wish I had a megaphone for this announcement: YOU DO NOT HAVE TO HAVE A DISORDER OR DIAGNOSIS TO GO TO THERAPY! I repeat: YOU DO NOT HAVE TO HAVE A DISORDER OR DIAGNOSIS TO GO TO THERAPY! ANYONE can go to therapy! I love meeting with first time clients. Mainly because I am able to introduce them to therapy in a non-judgmental and fun way. I can speak for myself that I am not going to sit across from you with a blank stare, ill-fitting suit, and a clip board “analyzing” you. It is NOT like the movies. In my office, this is also YOUR office! We are allowed to laugh, eat our favorite snacks, and talk about topics that are more comfortable for you. As an example, have you ever seen the coke bottle and mentos experiment? If you haven’t, think of stress like a bottle of coke. If it is a solid coke bottle, once you crack the top, there will be a good amount of carbonation. Think of the carbonation as your stress level. As the carbonation reaches closer to the top, this represents the stressors that have been repressed over time. If a mento or “extra stressor” is added, this can cause you to “explode”. Pro tip: just because you ignore the issue does not mean it magically goes away.
You deserve to be heard and seen as you are. You also deserve to be celebrated for any and all accomplishments. As a reminder, there are good and bad days, but it is what you do with it that matters! We, at Pacifica Counseling, pride ourselves in being advocates for change, service, and encouragement for anyone who walks through our doors. For those who are looking for a therapist, I want to encourage you to find the place that welcomes you with open arms, challenges you, and prioritizes your needs. If you or someone you love is looking for a therapist, please visit https://www.pacificacounselingllc.com book a session.
