Restoration Counseling of Rochester

03/31/2026

Our emotions speak through our bodies — and even through our language. I thought it would be interesting to do a few posts about emotional idioms and the science behind them.
Have you ever wondered why we say we have “butterflies in our stomach”? This common phrase captures a real mind-body connection. When we feel nervous or excited, the body shifts into “alert” mode — adrenaline increases, blood flow diverts from the digestive system, and we feel a fluttering sensation in the gut.
If you want to read a bit more here’s a link…https://psychologily.com/butterflies-in-the-stomach/

03/25/2026

It’s that time of year when many people start thinking about spring cleaning their house… but have you ever thought about doing the same for your mind? Spring cleaning your mind is about decluttering your thoughts and emotions to enhance your mental well-being. This process can help you release negativity, reduce stress, and improve focus.
Some of the benefits of this include:
Improved Focus: Clearing your mind can help you concentrate better on tasks.
Reduced Stress: Letting go of negative thoughts can lower anxiety levels.
Enhanced Creativity: A clear mind fosters creative thinking and problem-solving.
Techniques include:
1. Journaling
Writing down your thoughts can help organize and release overwhelming feelings. It allows you to reflect on your emotions and identify areas that need attention.
2. Meditation
Practicing meditation can calm your mind and improve your emotional health. It encourages mindfulness, helping you to focus on the present and reduce distractions.
3. Setting Boundaries
Establishing limits on your time and energy can prevent mental clutter. Learn to say no to commitments that drain you and prioritize what truly matters.
4. Tackling Negative Thoughts
Challenge negative self-talk and replace it with positive affirmations. This shift can significantly improve your mental outlook.
Give it a try and let me know what you think...

03/21/2026

It seems to me that a lot of life boils down to a choice of whether to be kind (or not). Choose kind...

03/17/2026

I’m so proud to be a social worker - a profession that emphasizes (1) service, (2) social justice, (3) dignity and worth of the person, (4) importance of human relationships, (5) integrity, and (6) competence. Today is world Social Work day - a great opportunity for me to do a shout out to all my peers doing small (and large) acts of great love with others today - keep up the good work (and then take a moment for you)!!

03/09/2026

Good Monday Morning everyone - are you enjoying the sunshine??? Just a quick reminder that I’m speaking at this conference on Saturday - if you are struggling with How to Forgive (yourself or others) this talk may help (I hope)!!

03/03/2026

Happy to share this new resource for people looking for a new Psychiatric Nurse Practirioner - Kayla is very talented.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DVYnUl2kY-m/?img_index=5&igsh=MXE5c3FubzlmazBwdQ==

02/24/2026

If you know me (or just about any other therapist =) - we’re always preaching about self-care. Just curious… what self-care do you find it hardest to practice (and why - if you’re being brave about answering =)!

02/17/2026

Tomorrow is Ash Wednesday (the beginning of Lent). I think I’ve mentioned before how much I appreciate Kate Bowler - she’s a Christian who isn’t afraid to be authentic and say the hard things. If you go to her website she has several free resources that you can use to guide you through this 40 day season of reflection. I’m personally going to use the one pictured here… if you are inclined visit her website and see if there’s one that fits where you are on your spiritual journey.

Looking for a ritual to guide your Lenten practice? Check out our Free Lent guides, reflection prompts, and devotionals.

02/13/2026

Many people are feeling dysregulated by the recent release of the Epstein files and the intense media coverage around sexual abuse and exploitation. Research on vicarious trauma and media exposure to trauma shows that simply reading or watching repeated accounts of abuse can stir up anxiety, hyper-vigilance, grief, or numbness, especially for those with prior experiences of sexual violence. If you notice yourself feeling overwhelmed, it doesn’t mean you’re “too sensitive” – it means your nervous system is responding to very real material.
For those who want some grounded, evidence‑informed guidance on how to navigate sexual violence in the news and support your own regulation, this (albeit dated) APA resource offers concrete coping strategies and crisis contacts:

Steps to help you cope with distress from sexual violence in the news.

02/09/2026

I’m going to be speaking at this Spiritual Formation conference at Browncroft Community Church on 3/14. My topic is - How - on Earth - we can forgive others (and ourselves). The list of speakers looks impressive to me (and the cost is very affordable) - so please register f you’re interested!

(scroll down on this page until you see the spiritual formation event)

Check out upcoming events at Browncroft!

02/03/2026

Wondering who/what to be thankful for today? How about the female physicians in your life - I know they are a blessing to me both personally and professionally!