In a world that often celebrates achievements, accolades, and the “best of the best,” the pressure to be perfect can feel overwhelming. Perfectionism, a relentless pursuit of flawlessness, has become a double-edged sword in our lives. While striving for excellence may seem commendable, it can morph into a weapon we wield against ourselves, breeding anxiety, stress, and an ever-present sense of inadequacy.

Anxiety is uncomfortable. It tightens your chest, quickens your breath, and fills your mind with an endless loop of “what-ifs.” Naturally, the instinctive response is to avoid whatever is triggering the anxiety. If a social gathering makes you uneasy, you cancel. If a challenging project at work fills you with dread, you procrastinate. If an important conversation feels overwhelming, you put it off.

Depression is an often misunderstood mental health condition that can be both chronic or seasonal in nature. When it occurs in the context of a relationship, it can feel as though a third party has entered—one that can be draining, confusing, and lead to feelings of helplessness. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a subtype of depression that aligns with the fall and winter seasons, adds another layer of complexity, often compounding emotional strain during the darker, colder months of the year. For couples, the impact can be profound, challenging the foundation of connection, communication, and shared joy.

At a time when quick-fix, oversimplifying approaches to addressing psychological struggles are rampant, I would like to summarize some psychodynamic perspectives on depression, to inform the reader about a depth-oriented alternative. Many stereotypes and myths have been attached to this form of treatment, and some consider it obsolete or unscientific. Nevertheless, it is my personal and professional experience that this way of working produces deep and rich results, and can penetrate barriers that may be insurmountable to other therapeutic approaches.

As a life coach in Chicago and other states in US with two decades of experience as a psychologist, I’ve had the privilege of working with countless individuals on their journeys to personal growth and fulfillment. My style is direct yet compassionate, and my goal is to foster an environment where hope and authenticity thrive. In this post, I’ll share how I blend my psychological expertise with life coaching to help clients uncover their potential and find a new path forward.

As someone has put it, perfectionism is the art of never being satisfied. No matter how much effort is put into it and no matter how well you have performed, you are constantly being pulled to find what was not done properly. Never feeling ok with receiving a complement because of feeling like you are not deserving of it.

As the autumn fades into the winter, many people experience a noticeable shift in mood as early as September. This phenomenon, known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is particularly prevalent in regions like Chicago, where winter can stretch for several months and daylight becomes scarce. Understanding the signs of SAD and exploring effective strategies to combat its effects can help you maintain a positive outlook through the chilly months and most importantly prevent depression. 

Conflict is a natural part of relationships, but how couples handle it can deepen connection or drive couples further apart. Oftentimes couples come into counseling with a long list of problems focused on their partner. If my partner wasn’t so critical, if my partner wasn’t so sensitive, if my partner gave me more affection… we wouldn’t have these conflicts. Conflict is typically co-created and in some cases maintained because it serves some function in the relationship. From a psychodynamic view, resolving conflict starts with understanding how each partner contributes to the dynamic.

Seeking employment can be stressful, and in today's dynamic job market, the emotional toll it takes has become even more turbulent. While the job search can be an exciting journey toward new opportunities, it also carries the potential for significant mental health challenges, including heightened stress, anxiety, and even depression. In this blog, we’ll explore how folks can navigate this process while protecting their mental health and developing resilience in the face of inevitable obstacles.

Couples often face challenges that can strain their relationships, this doesn't mean you are not meant for one another, more so you need to learn the emotional language of one another. If you're searching for "counseling near me," it's essential to consider the benefits of seeking help sooner rather than later.

As a lawyer, you are no stranger to long hours at work and the pressure to constantly be on top of your game. The demands of the job can take a toll on your mental health, leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, and even substance abuse. It's important to recognize the signs of burnout and prioritize your own well-being before it's too late.

Since the beginning of the 2020’s, the world has experienced a global pandemic as well as deadly wars. As these words are being written, many are going through extreme pain, deprivation, fear, and despair. It is becoming increasingly hard to digest how much aggression our (human) race is capable of, and how vulnerable and fragile we really are.

In a world that constantly bombards us with messages about who we should be, it can be all too easy to lose sight of our true selves. We often find ourselves changing and shaping ourselves to fit the expectations and standards of others, even when deep down, we know who we really are. But the truth is, authenticity is a powerful and liberating force that allows us to live our lives in alignment with our true selves.

Many people believe that therapists are zen-like creatures who have perfectly intact mental health at all times. Afterall we are there to help you improve your mental health so we must have achieved consistent success with our own. This is not the case. Therapists are people. Therapists are human.

Change is inevitable. It is a constant force that shapes our lives and molds our destinies. Yet, embracing change can be one of the most challenging things we face as humans.

Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis is a life-changing event that goes beyond the physical implications and the thinking of it as a terminal diagnosis (which is not the case anymore, due to great advancements in medicine). It deeply impacts a person's emotional and psychological well-being, influencing their thoughts, feelings, and relationships.

Love is not just a fleeting emotion or a passing feeling. It is the essence of our existence, the very core of our being. Love is what nourishes our soul, uplifts our spirit, and allows us to connect with others on a deeper level.

Money, which can be described neutrally as a practical or material concern, is rarely so neutral when we take into context how deeply interwoven our relationship with finances is with our emotions, beliefs, and values. Our money-related experiences, from early childhood through adulthood, influence not only our financial habits but also our sense of self-worth, security, and joy.

Let’s face it, marriage is no walk in the park and I think I can speak on behalf of every person who has been married at least once in their life. However, within this beautiful union, strains can emerge, testing the resilience and depth of the bond between partners. From financial pressures to communication breakdowns, navigating the complexities of marriage requires both patience and perseverance.

Workplace stress and negative self-talk are common issues that can have a significant impact on one's well-being. In this blog, we will explore the causes of work stress, the detrimental effects of negative self-talk, and provide practical tips to help individuals overcome stress in the workplace.