Andelige Trauma Counseling & Consulting

11/09/2025

Have you ever been asked about your spirituality during a therapy session? It might seem unexpected, but our spiritual beliefs and practices often deeply influence our mental wellbeing. ✨

I was reflecting on this after reading about how mental health professionals are increasingly recognizing spirituality as a vital dimension of healing. Simple questions like "What gives you hope?" or "What keeps you going in difficult times?" can open meaningful conversations about what sustains us.

Spirituality isn't just about religious affiliation - it can include meditation, creative expression, time in nature, or helping others. These practices can provide comfort and meaning during healing journeys, especially for those recovering from trauma.

What spiritual practices (broadly defined) help ground you when life feels overwhelming? Your unique path matters. 🌿

11/09/2025

Just watched this profound interview on PBS about generational trauma and its impact on Black women... wow. 💔

Dr. Inger Burnett-Zeigler explains how trauma doesn't just affect individuals—it can be passed down through generations genetically, behaviorally, and through continued exposure to difficult circumstances.

What struck me most was hearing how many don't even recognize their symptoms as trauma-related. The irritability, difficulty sleeping, being constantly on edge... these aren't character flaws, they're often responses to deep wounds.

As a therapist, I see this pattern regularly. When we don't understand our reactions are connected to past experiences (even ones we didn't personally live through), healing feels impossible.

Have you ever considered how patterns in your family might be connected to unresolved trauma? Recognizing this connection can be the first step toward breaking cycles that may have existed for generations.

Most people experience a traumatic event some time during their lives — losing a loved one, being the victim of violence or surviving a natural disaster. But what happens when the impact of trauma is the indirect result of the experiences of family and caretakers? As part of our series, Race Matte...

11/08/2025

Just came across this beautiful mindfulness technique today that I had to share. It's called the STOP skill from DBT therapy, and it's so simple yet powerful for those moments when emotions feel overwhelming.

S - Stop what you're doing
T - Take a breath
O - Observe what's happening in your body and mind
P - Proceed mindfully

I love how this creates that tiny moment of pause between feeling triggered and responding. For so many of us healing from trauma or anxiety, that pause is exactly where our power lives.

How many of us wish we'd had this tool earlier in life? I know I do. 💜

Have you tried the STOP technique before? Would love to hear if it's helped you navigate difficult emotions.

The STOP mindfulness technique from DBT is a way of introducing meditation to help you calm down amidst stress and anxiety. Learn the practice here.

11/08/2025

Just read something that really resonated with me today. So many of us have these misconceptions about trauma therapy that might be keeping us from seeking the support we need. 💭

One myth that breaks my heart: thinking trauma therapy is only for "severe cases." The truth? Trauma is subjective. What impacts one person deeply might not affect another the same way. Your pain is valid, even if you've been told to "just get over it."

Another misconception I see in my practice: the fear that you'll have to relive your worst moments in vivid detail. While some approaches might involve this, many trauma therapies don't require you to retell your painful experiences. Your healing journey can honor your boundaries.

And no, therapy isn't just sitting and talking. It's a multidimensional process that acknowledges how trauma lives in our bodies, minds, and spirits. Sometimes healing happens through movement, creativity, or mindfulness practices.

What myths about therapy have you had to unlearn? Your experience matters, and healing is possible. ✨

11/08/2025

Stress is something we all encounter, but finding ways to manage it is key to leading a fulfilling life. Many people are turning to CBD as a natural option to help them cope with stress and anxiety. 🌱💚 While science is still exploring the full potential of CBD, stories from individuals using it highlight its potential to offer relief and support.

Addressing stress is not a one-size-fits-all journey, and it's heartening to see how different approaches resonate with different people. Sharing these experiences can empower others to seek their own paths to healing.

What are your strategies for stress relief? Your story could inspire someone else on their journey! 🌈✨

My Way CBD

Discover how CBD for stress can help restore calm, improve sleep, and boost emotional resilience. Learn the science, user stories, and tips.

11/07/2025

When life piles up, our bodies feel it deeply. Chronic stress isn't just an emotional burden—it can actually alter our physical health, our sleep, even our immune system.

This is something I see with so many of my clients who come in feeling completely overwhelmed—their nervous systems stuck in that heightened state with no release valve.

The beautiful thing about mindfulness is that it offers us a way back to ourselves. Simple practices like mindful breathing can actually calm our stress response system, creating space between stimulus and reaction. We learn to unhook from those spinning thoughts that fuel anxiety.

And contrary to what our productivity-obsessed culture tells us, we can actually accomplish more when we're not operating from a stress response. Clarity emerges when we pause.

What small mindfulness practice might you try today to create a moment of peace? Perhaps just three conscious breaths when you feel tension rising?

Mindfulness helps manage stress by calming the amygdala, the part of the brain responsible for emotional reactivity and keeps us grounded and in touch with a broader, gentler perspective when stressful events occur.

11/07/2025

Mindfulness doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. When anxiety feels overwhelming, sometimes the simplest practices can bring us back to our center. 💗

I came across some beautiful, accessible mindfulness techniques that can be woven into our everyday moments:

✨ Setting an intention before challenging activities
✨ Taking a brief nature walk, focusing on your senses
✨ Making a cup of tea mindfully, noticing every step
✨ Looking up at the stars and taking deep breaths
✨ Mentally wishing happiness for others you encounter

What touches me most about these practices is that they don't require special equipment or large amounts of time - just a willingness to pause and be present.

For those of you who struggle with anxiety, which of these gentle practices resonates with you today? Is there one you might try this week?

Remember, healing happens in small moments of presence, not just in grand gestures.

11/07/2025

Life is a journey, and every day offers us choices that shape who we become. This article shares insights on how to approach life through the lens of RPG classes, whether you see yourself as a brave Warrior or a strategic Mage. 🛡️🔮

Here are some impactful steps to consider:

1. Identify your "class" and embrace your strengths.
2. Set small, achievable goals to build momentum in your daily life.
3. Reflect and adapt your strategies based on your unique journey.

By understanding our qualities and experiences, we can empower ourselves to tackle challenges and grow. 🌱✨

What class resonates with you? Share your thoughts or your own tips for leveling up in life!

🛡️RPG Class Tips in Life: Master Your Journey and Level Up 🚀By Lionel Thomas / August 12, 2024 In the story of your life, you are the hero, choosing your path forward. Like in an RPG, your class shapes your journey—whether you’re a bold Warrior, wise Mage, cunning Rogue, or charismatic B...

11/06/2025

Navigating decisions in clinical supervision can sometimes be challenging, and there's a refreshing approach that might make it easier. The Cynefin framework helps practitioners understand various contexts and determine the best course of action based on the situation.

Imagine trying to decide how to respond to different client issues. Each scenario is unique, and recognizing whether it falls into the simple, complicated, complex, or chaotic category can guide our responses more effectively. 🌱 For example, a clear-cut problem might require one solution, while a deeply complex issue may demand a more nuanced approach.

The key takeaway? It's about locating yourself in the right domain to tackle the problem effectively. This understanding empowers us to step into our roles with confidence and compassion, ultimately enhancing the support we offer to our clients. Every step we take towards clarity brings us closer to creating a healing space. 💪❤️

What strategies do you find effective in your practice for tackling complex decisions? Let's share our insights! 🌍✨

What the hell is cynefin?Cynefin (pronounced cahn-e-ven) is Welsh for a deep sense of belonging or habitat. I think of that as where you are when you are in the place that's "just right" for you.Doesn't that sound like where you'd like to spend your time? Would you like to have a strong sense of

11/06/2025

I was reading about mindfulness for stress reduction today and it really resonated with me. When we're constantly in that fight-or-flight mode, our bodies literally can't rest and restore themselves. 💗

What struck me most was how simple mindfulness practices can actually shrink the amygdala (the brain's alarm system!) over time. This isn't just feel-good advice - it's neurologically sound.

For many of us carrying trauma or anxiety, our bodies stay in high alert even when there's no immediate danger. Mindful breathing, body scans, and the simple STOP technique (Stop, Take a breath, Observe what's happening in your body, then Proceed) can help us respond rather than react.

I wonder... what small mindfulness practice might you try this week when you notice yourself feeling overwhelmed? Even 60 seconds of conscious breathing can create that tiny but precious space between stimulus and response.

11/05/2025

Planning a bridal shower that feels straight out of a storybook? 🎉 This article highlights five enchanting themes to create a magical experience for the bride-to-be! From whimsical woodland vibes to elegant royal celebrations, there's something for every fairy tale lover. ✨ Think regal invitations that resemble royal scrolls, dreamy tablescapes, and delightful treats like magic wand cookie favors! 🍪🌸

Imagine gathering your friends for a tea party with floral centerpieces in glass slippers and pastel macarons. How would you put your unique spin on a fairytale bridal shower? Share your ideas in the comments!

Are you in the midst of planning a bridal shower fit for a fairytale princess? Look no further! In this article, we will explore 5…

11/05/2025

Creating a trauma-informed environment in our classrooms is crucial for fostering positive learning experiences. The journey starts with recognizing the unique challenges our students face and adapting our approaches to better support their needs.

Here are some actionable steps to consider:
1. Cultivate Empathy: Build strong relationships with students. Show understanding of their experiences and validate their feelings.
2. Provide Resources: Ensure that students have access to mental health resources and support systems.
3. Promote Inclusivity: Create a welcoming atmosphere for all students, where diverse backgrounds are celebrated.
4. Encourage Growth: Highlight strengths and resilience in students to foster empowerment.

By implementing these strategies, educators can enhance classroom engagement and promote healing, ensuring all students thrive.

What tips do you have for creating a supportive learning environment? Share your thoughts below! 💬✨

If a student’s brain is tuned into defending itself all the time, then how can the student focus on learning? That’s just one question facing educators as they try to create a safe, supportive educational environment for students impacted by trauma.