Bridgette W. Gottwald
By: Bridgette W. Gottwald, LPC, NCC You’re probably wondering how on earth rocks, pebbles and sand have anything to do with what matters in life. It turns out that these elements and what they represent are relevant to mental health, too. Go figure! This lesson by a professor might surprise you and make you healthily reflect upon your own life. A philosophy professor stood before his class and picked up a large, empty mayonnaise jar which he…
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By: Bridgette W. Gottwad, LPC, NCC Since 1949, May has been designated as Mental Health Awareness Month in the U.S. Throughout life, mental health can vary based upon our circumstances and the state of the world. Amidst 2020 and 2021, mental health in general as society has taken a general decline. It is beneficial to observe mental health awareness month to reduce the stigma that surrounds psychological illness. Additionally, it can be beneficial in bringing the community…
Read MoreBy: Bridgette W. Gottwald, LPC, NCC Have you ever heard of languishing? Perhaps it’s the dominant emotion of 2021 and you’re not alone in what you are feeling – according to the New York Times, “we all have a lot of symptoms in common right now.” Have you had trouble focusing or noticed that there have been things you aren’t looking forward to in 2021, even though vaccines have been attainable and on the horizon? What is…
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By: Bridgette W. Gottwald, LPC, NCC This week I had an interesting and super inspiring session with a client of mine that I’ve been working with for the last year and a half. In response to a negatively charged comment about herself, I said “You’re stronger than you think and give yourself credit for.” She said excitedly “RE-TWEET!” in response. From there, that response of hers became the precedent for the rest of the session. What did…
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By: Bridgette W. Gottwald, LPC, NCC What Are 9 Things Every Woman Should Know About Mental Health During Pregnancy? Part II Did you know that a recent study found that postpartum depression often begins before a woman gives birth? Here are some things that soon-to-be mothers should know about mental health during pregnancy. Part one of this two-part blog series shared the first three and here are the last six! The sooner you get treatment, the better…
Read MoreBy: Bridgette W. Gottwald, LPC, NCC So, you got a positive pregnancy test and you are realizing that your entire life is changing hugely. First of all, congratulations! People will be thrilled to share their own experiences with you, as well as all of their opinions (some of which you may not want.) Do yourself a favor and get into the habit of taking everything with a grain of salt. Take things one day at a time,…
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By: Bridgette W. Gottwald, LPC, NCC The emotional development of people and pets can have a large impact on your mental health. Dogs “orient and move in synchrony with family members” and this can have implications on family dynamic and growth. Emotional Bonding According to a new study, family dogs have a way of matching their movements and body language to those of the children they live with. They also tend to stay close and “orient themselves…
Read MoreBy: Bridgette W. Gottwald, LPC, NCC Your attachment style was developed with your primary caregiver when you were an infant. Before understanding attachment, we must know how to recognize it and how it affects relationships and connections amidst our lives. What is Attachment? Attachment, also known as attachment bonds, is the “emotional connection you formed as an infant with your primary caregiver – probably your mother.” Typically, the quality of bonding you experienced during this first relationship…
Read MoreBy: Bridgette W. Gottwald, LPC, NCC No matter how long you have been married, newlyweds and old married couples have one thing in common – they should never get too comfortable. The Straw that Breaks the Camel’s Back, Pt. I: What Are My Risks for Divorce? In my practice, I see and work with many couples, and anyone who knows me or works with me knows my fascination with marriage, couples work, and relationships. Turns out that…
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Bridgette W. Gottwald, LPC, NCC Every year, we clean our homes in the spring to prepare and sharpen for the year ahead. Have you ever done the same thing with your mind, which is the body’s most important organ? Decluttering your brain is just as important and this blog will provide you with 10 easy tips for how to do so! Start Journaling Most therapists you meet will highly encourage journaling, and we don’t just say this…
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