Is dating dead? That’s the popular question from those seeking to understand hookup culture and the technologically-driven, casual romantic meet-up. Young adults are taking their time to commit to long-term relationships (LTRs), a phenomenon characteristic of the new developmental period of emerging adulthood. This extended period allows for individuals to explore relationship preferences and enjoy...
April 26, 2017June 14, 2017by Mara Teal, M.A.
Why We are Fascinated by Other People’s Disasters
[This article was originally published on Shrink Tank on September 3, 2015] So what would you do if you saw a couple breaking up right in front of you? A couple you don’t know at all, and you’re sharing a confined space with them. Well, this was reality for Kelly Keegs. She was sitting in...
April 26, 2017June 14, 2017by Jonathan Hetterly, LPC
Would You Ever Open Your Marriage? The Psychology of Open Marriages
[This article was first published on Shrink Tank in February 2017] Marriage and relationships are changing in the 21st century. Hear from real-life folks who say polyamory works best for them. Valentine’s Day comes around every February, bringing with it horrible romantic films, stores filled with boxes of candy, and cuddly stuff animals. The gifts...
April 26, 2017June 14, 2017by Dr. Andrea Umbach
Skills for Shyness and Social Anxiety: Part 1
Skills for Shyness and Social Anxiety: Part 1 For individuals who are shy or have social anxiety, it can be very hard to feel comfortable interacting in social situations. These situations can range from one-on-one conversations, group meetings, social events, or performance situations. Oftentimes, it is difficult to speak up or express an opinion due...
April 26, 2017June 13, 2017by Dr. Andrea Umbach
Tips From an Anxiety Specialist on Organizing Your Filing System
Out of all the things we have to organize in our lives, paperwork is one area that most people struggle with or just hate to deal with altogether. There are several factors that might contribute to this difficulty. First, you have to create a system for your papers. If you do not have a system...
April 26, 2017June 14, 2017by Dr. Patrick Young
The WOOP Method
All of us have an area that we would like to improve in or grow as a person. This could be in our career (e.g., getting a raise or landing a new job), our physical appearance (e.g., lose those love handles and fit into your favorite clothes again), or even in terms of strengthening our...
April 26, 2017June 14, 2017by Dr. Andrea Umbach
Skills for Shyness and Social Anxiety: Part 3
Skills for Shyness and Social Anxiety: Part 3 I have been discussing several skill areas that socially anxious individuals can practice to begin feeling more confident in their ability to face anxiety-provoking situations. And honestly, these are skills we all need to remember and practice at times. Today’s topic is… Conversation Skills Many people with social...
April 26, 2017June 13, 2017by Dr. Andrea Umbach
Skills for Shyness and Social Anxiety: Part 4
Skills for Shyness and Social Anxiety: Part 4 Today is the final article exploring several skill areas that socially anxious individuals can practice to begin feeling more confident in their ability to face anxiety-provoking situations. And honestly, these are skills we all need to remember and practice at times. Today’s topic is… Balanced Communication Communication...
April 26, 2017June 13, 2017by Dr. Andrea Umbach
Tricho-tillo-what??? Understanding Trichotillomania
Tricho-tillo-what??? What is Trichotillomania? Trichotillomania (TTM or trich) is a disorder characterized by recurrent pulling out of one’s hair from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, and other areas of the body, often causing bald patches. Pulling is most common during sedentary activities but varies greatly in its severity. While some individuals report they are very aware...
April 26, 2017June 14, 2017by Dr. Andrea Umbach
The Impact Anxiety Has on Sleep and Tips for a Worry-Free Bedtime
HOW DOES ANXIETY IMPACT SLEEP? When we worry, we become physiologically stimulated resulting in alertness and difficulty with sleep. Worry gives our brain a signal indicating there is a threat and our body instinctively prepares itself for action. So of course it is hard to sleep. TIPS TO IMPROVE ANXIETY AT BEDTIME Make Your Bedroom...