Willow Birch Therapy

31/10/2025

All week, we’ve been talking about how other people’s moods, words, and reactions often have nothing to do with us — how someone’s bad day, distant tone, or defensiveness might reflect their inner world, not our worth.

Our latest blog takes that conversation even deeper. 💬
“It’s Not Always About You” explores why we tend to take things personally, how to pause before assuming blame, and ways to protect your peace without losing compassion for others.

If this week’s posts about emotional boundaries and self-reflection resonated with you, you’ll love this one. It’s a grounding reminder that we can care for others without carrying what isn’t ours.
✨ Read the full post here: www.willowbirchtherapy.com/blog
Then tag someone who could use this gentle reminder today.

Willow Birch Therapy, founded by Dr. Chantel Windy, is a compassionate mental health practice dedicated to providing personalized support for individuals, young adults, and those navigating life transitions. With over five years of experience, Chantel is passionate about guiding clients on their jou...

31/10/2025

🎃 Happy Halloween!
Wishing everyone a safe and spooky Halloween! 🕸️🕷️

I’ll be out of the office today, taking a little time to celebrate (and maybe sneak some candy 🍬).
Remember: whether you’re trick-or-treating, carving pumpkins, or just enjoying the fall vibes, take a moment to care for yourself and have fun — Halloween is the perfect reminder that it’s okay to play, be silly, and enjoy the little things.

I’ll see you after the festivities! 💛

30/10/2025

Protecting Your Peace

Not every storm you notice requires you to get wet.
If someone’s mood changes, it doesn’t mean you caused the rain.

Protect your peace by asking:
Is this actually about me?
Or am I absorbing someone else’s emotional weather?

Staying grounded in your own truth helps you respond with compassion — for both them and yourself.

☔ Remember: You can care about others without carrying their chaos.

29/10/2025

When Someone Treats You Poorly

When someone treats you poorly, it’s easy to make up stories:
“I must’ve said something wrong.”
“They must not like me.”

But often, what you’re seeing is a reflection of their own inner world — not a mirror of your worth.

Maybe they’re overwhelmed. Maybe they’re projecting. Maybe they haven’t learned how to communicate kindly.

You can have empathy without taking ownership of what isn’t yours.

💭 A good reminder: “Their behavior is information — not confirmation of my value.”

28/10/2025

It’s Not Always About You

Sometimes someone’s tone is sharp, their face looks annoyed, or they seem distant — and our brain immediately says, “What did I do wrong?”

But here’s the truth:
It’s not always about you.

People carry their own stories — their stress, pain, exhaustion, and self-talk — and sometimes it spills out sideways.

It’s not personal, even when it feels personal.
Taking a breath before assuming blame can save you from unnecessary self-criticism.
You’re not the cause of everyone’s bad day. 💛

👉 Try this: The next time someone’s energy feels off, silently remind yourself, “This might not be mine to carry.”

27/10/2025

In our busy lives, stillness can feel uncomfortable—but it’s also where clarity, peace, and self-awareness grow. Allow yourself moments of quiet, do nothing, and simply be. Your mind and body will thank you.

24/10/2025

💛 Self-Care Doesn’t Have to Be a Bubble Bath 💛

When we hear “self-care,” many of us imagine journaling, cozy blankets, or a long bath. And yes, those are lovely—but self-care can also be small, creative habits that fit into your real life, even on your busiest days.
Here are a few simple ideas:
✨ Take 3 deep breaths while waiting in line
✨ Stretch or dance for a minute between tasks
✨ Sip tea mindfully, noticing taste and temperature
✨ Step outside for a mini digital detox
✨ Say an affirmation while washing your hands

The trick? Habit stacking. Pair your new self-care habit with something you already do every day — like brushing your teeth, making coffee, or checking emails — to make it stick.

Self-care isn’t about perfection. It’s about connection with yourself in ways that feel doable and nourishing. 💛

Which of these small self-care ideas could you try today? Drop a 💛 if you’re going to give one a shot!

📌 A blog has just dropped on this very subject — check it out for more practical, out-of-the-box self-care strategies! www.willowbirchtherapy.com/blog

24/10/2025

💛 Healing doesn’t always feel good—and that’s okay.

Growth, change, and processing emotions can be uncomfortable, messy, and even exhausting at times. Feeling sadness, frustration, or uncertainty doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re doing the work.

Remember: the steps that feel hard today are often the ones that lead to the most meaningful change tomorrow. Be gentle with yourself and honor the process. 🌱

22/10/2025

Rainy days, cloudy skies… and lost motivation?

Changes in weather can affect productivity and mood, even if it doesn’t feel like a “mental health issue.”
Tips:
✅ Consider light therapy if recommended
✅ Plan enjoyable indoor activities
✅ Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps

Small daily shifts in routine can help you feel more in control during seasonal changes. 💛

20/10/2025

You are your most important project. Reset as many times as it takes.

Life can be messy, and growth isn’t linear. Sometimes we need to pause, reflect, and start again—and that’s not failure, it’s self-care. Every reset is an opportunity to learn, grow, and prioritize your well-being. 💛

Give yourself permission to hit the refresh button—your mental and emotional health deserve it.

17/10/2025

📚 Understanding Trauma Through the Library Metaphor 📚

Sometimes trauma can feel like a messy, overwhelming library in your mind — books scattered everywhere, some even burned or hidden, and every time you try to navigate it, it’s exhausting. That’s where EMDR therapy comes in.

Think of EMDR as a skilled librarian helping you:
Sort through the chaos without feeling overwhelmed
Place memories in the right context so they no longer control your daily life
Access what you need without reopening old wounds unnecessarily

Trauma doesn’t have to stay stuck on the shelves. With the right guidance, you can organize your library, process difficult memories safely, and reclaim your sense of calm and control.

💛 Healing is possible. You don’t have to face it alone.

Have you ever felt like your mind is an unorganized library?
Drop a 📖 if this metaphor resonates with you!

📌 Want to learn more? Our blog dives deeper into trauma, EMDR, and how the library metaphor can help you understand the process.

💡

Willow Birch Therapy, founded by Dr. Chantel Windy, is a compassionate mental health practice dedicated to providing personalized support for individuals, young adults, and those navigating life transitions. With over five years of experience, Chantel is passionate about guiding clients on their jou...

17/10/2025

The holidays are coming… and so can the stress.

For many of us, the season brings joy, family, and celebrations—but it can also bring anxiety, tension, and overwhelm. Financial pressures, family dynamics, and the push to “do it all” can impact your mental health more than you realize.

The good news? There’s no time like the present to prepare. Taking small steps now—like setting boundaries, practicing self-care, or checking in with a mental health professional—can make the season feel more manageable and even enjoyable. 💛

You don’t have to wait until you’re feeling burned out to start caring for your mental health. A little preparation goes a long way.