Notes On Mental Health
Marleen writes about the things that matter most in psychotherapy today.
If small things leave you snapping, crying, shutting down, or feeling ashamed afterward, there may be more going on than “overreacting.”
This article explores how stress, trauma, and nervous system overload can make everyday moments feel bigger than they seem.
Do conversations with your parent leave you feeling confused, guilty, or like you’re always the problem? This article explores how gaslighting can show up in parent-child relationships and why it can become so hard to trust yourself.
You’re keeping everything moving, but your body feels tired, tense, or on edge. This article explores why burnout in high-functioning mothers can look like competence on the outside while the nervous system is quietly overwhelmed.
When your body feels tense, wired, numb, or constantly on edge, it may not be “all in your head.” This article explores how trauma can affect the nervous system and body.
Many people wonder if they’re ready for trauma therapy, especially if they worry about feeling overwhelmed or opening things up too quickly. This article explores what readiness actually means, and why trauma therapy should move at the pace your nervous system can handle.
What if you understand your trauma, but your body still reacts like it’s happening now? This article explores why talk therapy can help, and why trauma sometimes needs more than insight.
Many people say “I’m fine” because it’s easier than slowing down and checking in. This article explores what that phrase can quietly signal, and how paying attention to it can change your relationship with stress, anxiety, grief, and healing.
September brings excitement and change, but also stress for many families.
From rushed mornings to new routines, the shift can feel overwhelming.
You’re not alone in this.
Your first therapy session usually starts with a welcome, a conversation, and space to settle in. You don’t need to know exactly what to say, and it’s normal to feel nervous, emotional, or unsure about what to expect. Part of the first session is simply helping you feel more comfortable with the process.
Self-compassion is the ability to look at your own physical and emotional distress, realizing that you are experiencing some form of human suffering, and asking yourself, what do I need in this moment to make my suffering less?