Amanda Ann Gregory
Amanda Ann Gregory, LCPC There are many benefits of gratitude. In fact, studies indicate that gratitude improves your psychological functioning, physical health, relationships, and career (for more information on this, read my previous blog, What are the Benefits of Gratitude?). Yet, gratitude is not always beneficial. Gratitude, like most practices, can have a positive or negative impact on your wellbeing. In certain circumstances, gratitude can indeed have a negative impact on your mental health. Gratitude can minimize…
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Amanda Ann Gregory, LCPC Gratitude has gone viral. It’s easy to find books, journals, podcasts, and social media posts about gratitude. There is a reason for this popularity, as gratitude may have a positive impact upon your mental health as gratitude benefits your relationships, physical health, and career. Gratitude could strengthen your relationships Your relationships can have a strong positive impact on your mental health, and practicing gratitude can strengthen those relationships. Also, Fredrickson, & Gable (2103)…
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Amanda Ann Gregory, LCPC, EMDR Certified Therapist Neuroplasticity is your brain’s ability to change and adapt over time. Britannica defines neuroplasticity as the “capacity of neurons and neural networks in the brain to change their connections and behavior in response to new information, sensory stimulation, development, damage, or dysfunction.” In short, you can change your brain. Here’s an example of neuroplasticity. David is a college student who is struggling to pass a math exam. David has always…
Read MoreAmanda Ann Gregory, LCPC, EMDR Certified Therapist Neuroplasticity is one of the reasons I became a trauma psychotherapist in Chicago. The brain’s amazing ability to transform and heal itself gives me hope that any trauma, no matter how entrenched in the brain, can be processed, integrated, and healed. What is Neuroplasticity? Britannica defines neuroplasticity as the “capacity of neurons and neural networks in the brain to change their connections and behavior in response to new information, sensory…
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Forgiveness and trauma recovery create a complicated relationship for many survivors. Long-term healing unfolds in personal waves, and no single step fits everyone. Many people experience significant progress without forgiving an abuser, and forced forgiveness creates emotional blocks instead of relief. This topic deserves space for practical guidance, personal choice, and internal growth. Understanding Forgiveness and Trauma Recovery Forgiveness and trauma recovery often get linked as if they must move in one direction, yet survivors benefit from…
Read MoreAmanda Ann Gregory, LCPC, EMDR Certified Therapist “Forgiveness is for you, not the other person” “Don’t let someone rent space in your head.” “You need to forgive so that you can move on.” “You’ve likely heard popular sayings like, ‘Forgive for your own sake’ or ‘Don’t let someone rent space in your head.’ Do you believe them? When it comes to recovering from trauma, perhaps you shouldn’t. Forgiveness is potentially problematic when incorporated into trauma treatment. It’s been…
Read MoreAmanda Ann Gregory, LCPC, EMDR Certified Date nights are opportunities for partners to affirm, strengthen, and renew their connection to one another. Some partners will schedule date nights weekly or monthly. In the winter, however, date nights can be difficult due to inclement weather. But since date nights are fun and beneficial, it’s a shame to skip them due to the season. When the weather turns harsh, consider these ten creative ideas for date nights indoors. Too…
Read MoreAmanda Ann Gregory, LCPC, EMDR Certified Public Speaking is one of the most common phobias and sources of anxiety. Here are coping strategies which may help you to manage your anxiety while speaking publicly. Be realistic about your audience’s expectations. What are the expectations of your audience? Do they expect you to give a perfect speech? Are they critiquing your every word? Most likely, such high expectations are your expectations, not those of your audience. Perfection is…
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Amanda Ann Gregory, LCPC, EMDR Certified Ghosting is when you abruptly end all communication or contact with a person (with whom you’ve had a relationship) without warning. Ghosting can occur in any type of relationship, but this blog will focus on romantic relationships which include casual dating, commitment, and every other category of romance. Ghosting is tempting. It’s a way to end a relationship without any conflict or effort. It’s a way to avoid being exposed to…
Read MoreAmanda Ann Gregory, LCPC, EMDR Certified Your loved one is participating in therapy, and you desperately want to talk to their therapist. How can you do this? As a therapist, I encounter this question often. There are many reasons why you might want to connect with a loved one’s therapist. Here are some the most common that I’ve encountered: You feel that your loved one is not being honest with their therapist. You want to provide information…
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