We hear it all the time: “I need to process this,” or “I’m still processing that.” But what does it actually mean to process something from a therapeutic perspective? Processing occurs when we try to make sense of an experience that has left us feeling unsettled—something that didn’t sit right mentally, emotionally, or physically. This might be an event, a conflict, a thought, a memory, or an emotion. Another way to understand processing is to think of it as the psychological equivalent of...

The human brain is inundated with vast amounts of data every second. To manage this overwhelming influx, the brain employs various shortcuts such as chunking (grouping information) and unconscious bias—tools that help us quickly determine what is relevant for our survival and what can be disregarded. As a result of these mental shortcuts, what we consciously perceive is only a small, filtered portion of the reality that originally enters our minds. This selective awareness means that much of...

The holiday season can be a wonderful time filled with celebration, family, and tradition. However, it's also notorious for bringing stress, anxiety, and overwhelming expectations. Whether you’re hosting gatherings, shopping for gifts, or balancing work and family, holiday stress can creep in and dampen your enjoyment. Data from the American Psychological Association indicates that 89% of individuals report heightened stress levels during this period, and approximately 64% of those with...